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Once Upon an Enchantment #3
Scaling the Stormy Tower
Escape from this tower will require more than a rope.
Cam is trapped. She is the Weather-Reader of Theirrol, her life path dictated before she was born. According to the townspeople, all she should care about is using her tie to a magical node to help them thrive. Even her personal life is a public matter in their minds, the continuation of her bloodline their only concern. But she is ready to break free.
Jacob visits Cam’s tower hoping to get a weather prediction before sailing to distant lands. But he can’t ignore the storm brewing between her and the entire town. When he ends up in the center of a matchmaking plot, he doesn’t hesitate to propose staging a fake relationship if that is what it takes to help Cam.
Kissing in the middle of the street might buy Cam time, but when real feelings develop, she can’t help but wonder if she can really escape, or if she has stolen Jacob’s freedom, too.
***A Rapunzel retelling with a stubborn FMC, steamy romance, and a happily ever after. ***
Cam is trapped. She is the Weather-Reader of Theirrol, her life path dictated before she was born. According to the townspeople, all she should care about is using her tie to a magical node to help them thrive. Even her personal life is a public matter in their minds, the continuation of her bloodline their only concern. But she is ready to break free.
Jacob visits Cam’s tower hoping to get a weather prediction before sailing to distant lands. But he can’t ignore the storm brewing between her and the entire town. When he ends up in the center of a matchmaking plot, he doesn’t hesitate to propose staging a fake relationship if that is what it takes to help Cam.
Kissing in the middle of the street might buy Cam time, but when real feelings develop, she can’t help but wonder if she can really escape, or if she has stolen Jacob’s freedom, too.
***A Rapunzel retelling with a stubborn FMC, steamy romance, and a happily ever after. ***
259 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2024
About the author
Jen Lynning
26 books103 followersJen Lynning never outgrew her love of fairy tales. (She may have studied German just so she could read the Brothers Grimm in the original.) When she wasn’t reading about life in a magical world, she was imagining it. Eventually she decided to start writing her own stories where magic and romance meet.
Jen lives in Northern Virginia with her two cats, who make their own contributions to her writing by walking across the keyboard, and her bird, who offers commentary on the whole process.
Jen lives in Northern Virginia with her two cats, who make their own contributions to her writing by walking across the keyboard, and her bird, who offers commentary on the whole process.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
August 18, 2024
4.8 stars. I really enjoyed this book and I would definitely say this is my favorite of this series! I loved the two main characters and thought that they had great chemistry! I also loved how the magic works in this world and thought it added to the story! I definitely would recommend this if you want a loose fairytale retelling because this takes parts of the original tale but the author makes the story completely new! Thank you to the author for the ARC and I can’t wait to see what you write next!
September 5, 2024
"While I feared losing myself in him, he made everything about me. The armor around my heart couldn't keep him out, for he didn't try to batter his way in; he simply seeped through the cracks."
I absolutely loved this book, and am so sad this series has come to an end! This was a great addition to the series, delving once again into the particulars of the blood-ties to the magical nodes with another sweet romance.
This was a Rapunzel retelling unlike any other I've read. While Cam wasn't physically kept locked away in this tower, she was instead bound to it by the actions of the townspeople who relied on her to the detriment of her own desires. She had been used for years for her weather-reading abilities, and the mostly well-meaning townspeople kept her dependent on them and encouraged the production of the next generation to keep this pillar of their economy standing, not realizing how they were trapping her. Her fight to be able to live her own life was powerful, especially once Jacob came into the picture.
Jacob always longed for the next adventure, and he found it in this strange town and in Cam herself. He's a golden retriever MMC who just wanted to help her above all else. He proved himself despite her suspicions to really just want to do the right thing, and fell for her in the process. I love fake dating, and it was done so well here! It really made sense why they would come up with their plan, and I loved watching them actually fall in love along the way.
The ending was perfect, with the solution they finally came up with and the happily ever after ending that was uniquely them.
This sweet romance had my heart hurting for Cam and so happy that she'd finally found someone to look out for what she wanted, I loved their relationship and this story!
Thanks to the author for the early copy of the book. This review was left voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved this book, and am so sad this series has come to an end! This was a great addition to the series, delving once again into the particulars of the blood-ties to the magical nodes with another sweet romance.
This was a Rapunzel retelling unlike any other I've read. While Cam wasn't physically kept locked away in this tower, she was instead bound to it by the actions of the townspeople who relied on her to the detriment of her own desires. She had been used for years for her weather-reading abilities, and the mostly well-meaning townspeople kept her dependent on them and encouraged the production of the next generation to keep this pillar of their economy standing, not realizing how they were trapping her. Her fight to be able to live her own life was powerful, especially once Jacob came into the picture.
Jacob always longed for the next adventure, and he found it in this strange town and in Cam herself. He's a golden retriever MMC who just wanted to help her above all else. He proved himself despite her suspicions to really just want to do the right thing, and fell for her in the process. I love fake dating, and it was done so well here! It really made sense why they would come up with their plan, and I loved watching them actually fall in love along the way.
The ending was perfect, with the solution they finally came up with and the happily ever after ending that was uniquely them.
This sweet romance had my heart hurting for Cam and so happy that she'd finally found someone to look out for what she wanted, I loved their relationship and this story!
Thanks to the author for the early copy of the book. This review was left voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
September 2, 2024
I received Scaling the Stormy Tower as an ARC, but all opinions are my own. This story is a lighthearted retelling of Rapunzel with a complex FMC who has personality, zero miscommunication tropes (🙌), and some genuinely realistic conflict. The length was perfect for maintaining a strong pace, though I wouldn't have minded a bit more!
I do wish Cam's life before her love interest entered the picture had been explored a little further—especially her friendship with her 'best friend' Sarah. I loved seeing her bisexual representation (we love to see it!), but I would have liked it to be explored more deeply, rather than just being presented as an alternative to pregnancy. There was some repetition that could have been trimmed, and I felt the town's forgiveness came a bit too easily. It would have been satisfying to see some real consequences for the villain’s actions. But the super supportive best boy love interest made it all worth it.
Overall, even without having read the first two books in the series, I found this one engaging enough on its own and to make me want to go back and check them out!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
I do wish Cam's life before her love interest entered the picture had been explored a little further—especially her friendship with her 'best friend' Sarah. I loved seeing her bisexual representation (we love to see it!), but I would have liked it to be explored more deeply, rather than just being presented as an alternative to pregnancy. There was some repetition that could have been trimmed, and I felt the town's forgiveness came a bit too easily. It would have been satisfying to see some real consequences for the villain’s actions. But the super supportive best boy love interest made it all worth it.
Overall, even without having read the first two books in the series, I found this one engaging enough on its own and to make me want to go back and check them out!
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2024
"It's not about defying destiny, but about finding your own path, even if it leads you to the edge of a cliff."
Jen Lynning's Scaling the Stormy Tower is a fun, cozy, and captivating tale of rebellion, love, and the power of weather magic. Set in a world where weather patterns are controlled by a select few, the story follows Cam, a young woman destined to become the next Weather-Reader of Thierrol.
Lynning's world-building is exquisite. The intricate magic system, where weather can be manipulated to suit a person's needs, is both fascinating and absolutely terrifying. Lynning manages to skillfully weave together elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure, creating a story that is both thought-provoking and thrilling.
Cam is a compelling protagonist. Her struggle to break free from the societal expectations placed upon her is relatable and inspiring. And her relationship with Jacob, a mysterious sailor, adds a layer of complexity and romance to the narrative.
One of the story's strengths is its exploration of themes of freedom, destiny, and the power of individual choice. Lynning's writing is evocative and lyrical, bringing the world of Thierrol to life. A particular standout is her description of the weather itself, which is used to symbolize both the beauty and the destructive power of nature.
While the pacing might be a bit slow in the beginning, the story quickly picks up momentum. The climax is both thrilling and satisfying, leaving the reader eager for more.
Overall, Scaling the Stormy Tower is a well-crafted fantasy retelling that will appeal to fans of the genre. With its engaging characters, captivating world-building, and thought-provoking themes, it is a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh and exciting adventure.
"The wind was a wild beast, howling and thrashing against the tower. Cam stood defiant, her heart pounding in her chest. She was no longer a puppet, dancing to the strings of society. She was a woman, free to choose her own path."
Jen Lynning's Scaling the Stormy Tower is a fun, cozy, and captivating tale of rebellion, love, and the power of weather magic. Set in a world where weather patterns are controlled by a select few, the story follows Cam, a young woman destined to become the next Weather-Reader of Thierrol.
Lynning's world-building is exquisite. The intricate magic system, where weather can be manipulated to suit a person's needs, is both fascinating and absolutely terrifying. Lynning manages to skillfully weave together elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure, creating a story that is both thought-provoking and thrilling.
Cam is a compelling protagonist. Her struggle to break free from the societal expectations placed upon her is relatable and inspiring. And her relationship with Jacob, a mysterious sailor, adds a layer of complexity and romance to the narrative.
One of the story's strengths is its exploration of themes of freedom, destiny, and the power of individual choice. Lynning's writing is evocative and lyrical, bringing the world of Thierrol to life. A particular standout is her description of the weather itself, which is used to symbolize both the beauty and the destructive power of nature.
While the pacing might be a bit slow in the beginning, the story quickly picks up momentum. The climax is both thrilling and satisfying, leaving the reader eager for more.
Overall, Scaling the Stormy Tower is a well-crafted fantasy retelling that will appeal to fans of the genre. With its engaging characters, captivating world-building, and thought-provoking themes, it is a must-read for anyone looking for a fresh and exciting adventure.
"The wind was a wild beast, howling and thrashing against the tower. Cam stood defiant, her heart pounding in her chest. She was no longer a puppet, dancing to the strings of society. She was a woman, free to choose her own path."
September 1, 2024
‘Just because you can do something all on your own doesn’t mean you have to.’
True, one changed action doesn’t make up for past abuses and/or toxic behaviors. IMHO and by personal experience, any active (and even passive) change is a start and much preferred over apologies. Won’t spoil here, but those who jumped to action seemed to do so of their own will rather than by being pressured. There’s something to say for that…
I appreciate that the author distinguishes between deserving and earning. No spoilers, but the really, really, really entitled person clearly doesn’t get the difference…and it shows. Unfortunately, too many people IRL go through life imposing their will unto others. Perhaps, they merely need to be schooled a wee bit in language; it’s a lot easier to learn a lesson via a dictionary than by hard knocks.
Traveling doesn’t necessarily need to be physical. Not everybody has the time, money, or health for sailing off to the Elsivein Isles. There are many other options for discovering our world that can work within our parameters. Modern-day bards pen books (with pictures), artists weave tales via video, and public transportation opens up many portals to oft-overlooked local sites.
Fave line:
‘It is possible to find adventure anywhere. All it takes is the willingness to look.’
May we all live a live of adventure, in whichever way is perfect for us.
“Meet Ranulf, the healer who sent the [XXX] to Jacob” in this story in ‘To Hunt a Ruby Remedy’ (part of the ‘Bound by Flame’ series).
True, one changed action doesn’t make up for past abuses and/or toxic behaviors. IMHO and by personal experience, any active (and even passive) change is a start and much preferred over apologies. Won’t spoil here, but those who jumped to action seemed to do so of their own will rather than by being pressured. There’s something to say for that…
I appreciate that the author distinguishes between deserving and earning. No spoilers, but the really, really, really entitled person clearly doesn’t get the difference…and it shows. Unfortunately, too many people IRL go through life imposing their will unto others. Perhaps, they merely need to be schooled a wee bit in language; it’s a lot easier to learn a lesson via a dictionary than by hard knocks.
Traveling doesn’t necessarily need to be physical. Not everybody has the time, money, or health for sailing off to the Elsivein Isles. There are many other options for discovering our world that can work within our parameters. Modern-day bards pen books (with pictures), artists weave tales via video, and public transportation opens up many portals to oft-overlooked local sites.
Fave line:
‘It is possible to find adventure anywhere. All it takes is the willingness to look.’
May we all live a live of adventure, in whichever way is perfect for us.
“Meet Ranulf, the healer who sent the [XXX] to Jacob” in this story in ‘To Hunt a Ruby Remedy’ (part of the ‘Bound by Flame’ series).
September 11, 2024
Another great retelling. This one is about Rapunzel but in a different way. Instead of being trapped in the tower metaphorically by a woman she's trapped in the town by the township people. Jen does such a really good job with these retellings. They're not the same, but they're different enough that you understand which story she's telling. Honestly I fell in love with all of them. This one was another cute one I think it's like on my top list next to her second book. Because this one has a lot of weird adventures in it because it's again about the node and the powers that she only has.
What I love is that you get to me Jacob that you met in book two and get to know him a lot more. I love how just every character is intertwined within the series where you get to meet them and the other books. But you get to fall in love with them in the next book. Like I knew a lot about Jacob and book two but in book three you just find outb so much more about him. Honestly this is such a cute story. I know this is the end of the series but she did stay at the end of the book that she's making more and I cannot wait to read them!!!! If you guys like retelling a fairy tales but in a more modern different way give this series a read it's so goodIf you guys like retelling a fairy tales but in a more modern different way give this series a read it's so good.
What I love is that you get to me Jacob that you met in book two and get to know him a lot more. I love how just every character is intertwined within the series where you get to meet them and the other books. But you get to fall in love with them in the next book. Like I knew a lot about Jacob and book two but in book three you just find outb so much more about him. Honestly this is such a cute story. I know this is the end of the series but she did stay at the end of the book that she's making more and I cannot wait to read them!!!! If you guys like retelling a fairy tales but in a more modern different way give this series a read it's so goodIf you guys like retelling a fairy tales but in a more modern different way give this series a read it's so good.
August 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Scaling the Stormy Tower is the third book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series, and like the rest, it's inspired by a famous fairytale. This particular story is a Rapunzel-inspired tale, and, as with the previous books, it did not disappoint.
The plot is highly engaging and driven by magic. Cam, the city's weather-reader, is bound to the tower and the city by a magical connection that ties her to her past and future bloodline.
Jacob, who first appeared in book two, Forging Golden Slippers, is the male main character in this book. He truly shines in this installment, proving himself to be one of the best characters in the entire series. He selflessly shows genuine interest in Cam, offering to help her escape her abusive fiancé and break the magical bond that ties her to the city.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is the sweet and spicy scenes, and how the relationship between the two main characters deepens over time.
Tropes:
- Rapunzel Retelling
- He Falls First
- Fake Dating
- Tons of Cakes
- Spice
- FMC is a Weather-reader
- MMC is a Traveler
- HEA (Happily Ever After)
- Magical Bond
Thank you to the wonderful Jen Lynning for this free ARC. Scaling the Stormy Tower is out on September 5th!
Scaling the Stormy Tower is the third book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series, and like the rest, it's inspired by a famous fairytale. This particular story is a Rapunzel-inspired tale, and, as with the previous books, it did not disappoint.
The plot is highly engaging and driven by magic. Cam, the city's weather-reader, is bound to the tower and the city by a magical connection that ties her to her past and future bloodline.
Jacob, who first appeared in book two, Forging Golden Slippers, is the male main character in this book. He truly shines in this installment, proving himself to be one of the best characters in the entire series. He selflessly shows genuine interest in Cam, offering to help her escape her abusive fiancé and break the magical bond that ties her to the city.
One of my favorite aspects of this book is the sweet and spicy scenes, and how the relationship between the two main characters deepens over time.
Tropes:
- Rapunzel Retelling
- He Falls First
- Fake Dating
- Tons of Cakes
- Spice
- FMC is a Weather-reader
- MMC is a Traveler
- HEA (Happily Ever After)
- Magical Bond
Thank you to the wonderful Jen Lynning for this free ARC. Scaling the Stormy Tower is out on September 5th!
September 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ mildly spicy
- Rapunzel’s tower turned interesting
- fake marriage
- the way to her heart is food
- woman who doesn’t put up with ANYTHING
- man who wants to give her the world
- mysterious caves, quaint towns and beautiful fabrics kinda vibes
- complete and well developed storytelling
- good pacing
This book is so cute, so fun, such a good read. I LOVE the FMC, Cam, and how she not only owns her trauma, but makes real mistakes that make sense and create such a complete arc for her. Jacob is perfection and so sweet, the ultimate cinnamon roll.
I love this ‘retelling’ with the tower, continuing the first two books’ ideas of magical nodes and those who are tied to them by blood. This book explores a magical world with complete and well thought out characters, and I just LOVE how Jen is able to create such a convincing place, full of mystery and difficulties I would have never imagined. The idea of a tower, a woman, and a town that are tied together by weather reading and their desire to keep their magic to themselves is just SO interesting and fun. LOVE these books!
🌶️ mildly spicy
- Rapunzel’s tower turned interesting
- fake marriage
- the way to her heart is food
- woman who doesn’t put up with ANYTHING
- man who wants to give her the world
- mysterious caves, quaint towns and beautiful fabrics kinda vibes
- complete and well developed storytelling
- good pacing
This book is so cute, so fun, such a good read. I LOVE the FMC, Cam, and how she not only owns her trauma, but makes real mistakes that make sense and create such a complete arc for her. Jacob is perfection and so sweet, the ultimate cinnamon roll.
I love this ‘retelling’ with the tower, continuing the first two books’ ideas of magical nodes and those who are tied to them by blood. This book explores a magical world with complete and well thought out characters, and I just LOVE how Jen is able to create such a convincing place, full of mystery and difficulties I would have never imagined. The idea of a tower, a woman, and a town that are tied together by weather reading and their desire to keep their magic to themselves is just SO interesting and fun. LOVE these books!
August 16, 2024
Thank you Jen once again for an ARC of a book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series!
Honestly every book in this series is so cozy and heartwarming and an all around easy and fun and wonderful read. I love how there are small connections to the other books and characters which make me so happy!
This book was so sweet and I really loved both Cam and Jacob. He was just a wonderful cinnamon roll of a guy and she was feisty and fierce and they fit so well together.
Overall I am sad to see this is the last book in the series, but I absolutely LOVED each one and will definitely be rereading these 🤍
Honestly every book in this series is so cozy and heartwarming and an all around easy and fun and wonderful read. I love how there are small connections to the other books and characters which make me so happy!
This book was so sweet and I really loved both Cam and Jacob. He was just a wonderful cinnamon roll of a guy and she was feisty and fierce and they fit so well together.
Overall I am sad to see this is the last book in the series, but I absolutely LOVED each one and will definitely be rereading these 🤍
August 26, 2024
I absolutely loved this book I just couldn't put it down from the moment I started it!
Beautifully written and kept me turning the pages quick and quicker.
The story is just so sweet and wonderful, I was completely swept away into Cams world.
The spice that is in here is very well written and very good, and only makes you fall for the characters that little bit harder.
I really want to know what happened next for Cam and Jacob, but as this is the last in the series I shall have to make something up myself ♡
Beautifully written and kept me turning the pages quick and quicker.
The story is just so sweet and wonderful, I was completely swept away into Cams world.
The spice that is in here is very well written and very good, and only makes you fall for the characters that little bit harder.
I really want to know what happened next for Cam and Jacob, but as this is the last in the series I shall have to make something up myself ♡
August 18, 2024
Great Fairytale!! This book was a great weekend-read. It was sweet and interesting with some damsel-in-distress, fairytale vibes while keeping the damsel still strong-willed and intelligent. I enjoyed this last book of the Once Upon an Enchantment series and look forward to more from Jen Lynning.
Thank you Jen for the ARC! I loved it.
Thank you Jen for the ARC! I loved it.
August 31, 2024
This is the perfect cozy, autumn read! This is the third book I've read from Jen in the Enchantment series and it was lovely. This is a fairy tale retelling with inspirations from Rapunzel. What I have really enjoyed with this series is that while they are all standalone books in the same world, they continue with the world building already established leaving more room for character/plot development. StST has a prickly weather-reading FMC and a mage MMC that works his way into her heart with compassion and chocolate cake. He totally falls first, and who could blame him after fake dating the lovely Cam. I liked that the spice in this installation of the series made an appearance earlier than in the other books. Overall, these books have been perfect palate cleansers that always deliver!
April 26, 2025
Really cute Rapzuel-esque story that focuses on weather magic. I loved the relationship between the green flag MMC and our FMC looking for an escape. It was fun to see them break free at the end. I love the cozy vibes of this book and it was a great way to spend an afternoon, lost in a fun story.
August 30, 2024
This book was absolutely adorable. The connection between Jacob and Cam was so sweet and authentic, it seemed like a story of meeting between real people 🥹 jacob is a complete sweetheart, especially for Cam, and I love that Cam opens herself up to him eventually 🥹 Gordon and the town's interference was a brilliant plot twist, and added depth and excitement to the story, as did the parts about Cam's mother. The ending was so sweet and a fantastic round off to the story. Excellent storytelling, and beautiful journey for Cam to embark on, without her loosing her independence and opinions once she falls in love ❤️
September 6, 2024
Scaling the Stormy Tower is the last book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series by Jen Lynning and couldn't have ended in any other way.
It's a HEA, with mention to lots of food, especially chocolate cake, where there's playful banter between the protagonists, set in a small town by the sea with weather inspired magic.
A Rapunzel retelling with a spin, about Cam, a weather-reader stuck in her tower, in the town of Thierrol.
Only child in a line of only children, she's highly powerful, using the node and serving the people of Thierrol since she was 8 years old.
She is caring and determined, and yet she let herself be controlled by the townspeople, always trapped, caged like a bird.
One day, Jacob, a traveller we have met previously in another book, pops up by her tower, in need of a weather-read for one of his many travels.
Being tricked by Gordon, a man obsessed in marrying Cam, his first encounter gets a bit bumpy when he calls Cam by her full name, Campanula.
Thankfully, Cam is fully aware of whom is to blame. She isn't able to forecast so far long as Jacob expected, which meant the handsome stranger needed to stick around waiting for the next read, which shakes her wards.
Jacob senses something wasn't quite right and compassionate and empathetic as he is, he feels compelled to help Cam getting out of her "chains" and out of Thierrol.
He's furious with how everybody treats her and how she reacts to it.
The task of helping out Cam, isn't an easy one. He has Gordon, stepping in his toes, the townspeople forcing them together or him away, and Cam, that has a blood tie to the knot, refusing to face reality and fight for herself.
Thankfully, Jacob is a very patient, understanding man and all of his hard work pays off.
Jacob was already a sweet character, presented in Forging Golden Slippers, so it was easy to root for him, and Cam wasn't the typical damsel in distress, she could fight her fights if only she had the will to do it.
Scaling the Stormy Tower can be read as a standalone, but I suggest reading them all in order to better understand the magic world and how it works, and meet characters that do show up between stories.
It is a wonderful twist on Rapunzel and I must say that I loved them all.
This book was read as an ARC, so thank you, Jen Lynning for allowing me to read your wonderful, marvellous, magical books.
This is my honest, voluntary review.
It's a HEA, with mention to lots of food, especially chocolate cake, where there's playful banter between the protagonists, set in a small town by the sea with weather inspired magic.
A Rapunzel retelling with a spin, about Cam, a weather-reader stuck in her tower, in the town of Thierrol.
Only child in a line of only children, she's highly powerful, using the node and serving the people of Thierrol since she was 8 years old.
She is caring and determined, and yet she let herself be controlled by the townspeople, always trapped, caged like a bird.
One day, Jacob, a traveller we have met previously in another book, pops up by her tower, in need of a weather-read for one of his many travels.
Being tricked by Gordon, a man obsessed in marrying Cam, his first encounter gets a bit bumpy when he calls Cam by her full name, Campanula.
Thankfully, Cam is fully aware of whom is to blame. She isn't able to forecast so far long as Jacob expected, which meant the handsome stranger needed to stick around waiting for the next read, which shakes her wards.
Jacob senses something wasn't quite right and compassionate and empathetic as he is, he feels compelled to help Cam getting out of her "chains" and out of Thierrol.
He's furious with how everybody treats her and how she reacts to it.
The task of helping out Cam, isn't an easy one. He has Gordon, stepping in his toes, the townspeople forcing them together or him away, and Cam, that has a blood tie to the knot, refusing to face reality and fight for herself.
Thankfully, Jacob is a very patient, understanding man and all of his hard work pays off.
Jacob was already a sweet character, presented in Forging Golden Slippers, so it was easy to root for him, and Cam wasn't the typical damsel in distress, she could fight her fights if only she had the will to do it.
Scaling the Stormy Tower can be read as a standalone, but I suggest reading them all in order to better understand the magic world and how it works, and meet characters that do show up between stories.
It is a wonderful twist on Rapunzel and I must say that I loved them all.
This book was read as an ARC, so thank you, Jen Lynning for allowing me to read your wonderful, marvellous, magical books.
This is my honest, voluntary review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2024
It’s easy to bear the storm when you’re with someone you love.
Another great addition to the Once Upon an Enchantment series by Jen, this time with her own special take on Rapunzel, our girl trapped in the tower. We follow Jacob, if you remember him, he’s one of Princess Charmina’s friends and personal guests during her ball. Here, we see his story. Still possible to read as a standalone, the only reference to the previous books were mentions of Princess Charmina and her ball, but nothing deliberate.
I will never shut up about Jen’s amazing magic system. In my emails with her, she mentions how the gods and goddesses they worship have a tie to the power the mages are able to use and I got a hint of that information in this book. Sure it was only mentioned for like, two? Maybe three lines of dialogue. But I take what I can get.
For the plot, in the previous book Jacob and Princess Charmina have an off-hand conversation about the sole weather-reader in the port town of Thierrol, which leads Jacob here. You find a whole other side of the spectrum of people in regards to how the node power is consumed, for better or for worse. The beauty and benefits of power, as well how much it entices the ugly side of people.
Cam, our resident Rapunzel. While she doesn’t have long hair to let down from the tower window, she yearns for freedom still. She’s strong, but she cares deeply. And it has done much against her free will. But she’s not a pushover either. She stands strong in her beliefs, even if it garners unwanted attention.
Jacob, our wandering nomad. Adventurous, free-spirited, and a heart of gold. He doesn’t give up, but is widely respectful and honorable. He’s smart, resourceful, and definitely a people-reader (though I’m sure this isn’t actually a subtype of our magic system).
The romance is to die for. There’s immediate attraction but a whole lot of tension. But the spice makes up for it with all its heat and passion. They care for each other, working to help each other out however they can. It’s the type of love that heals and reassures.
Jen, hi! Your work has been amazing to read and I’ll go through the others too! I really love your universe and the world you created and I can’t wait to read more of what you have planned! Thank you for trusting me with your book <33
Another great addition to the Once Upon an Enchantment series by Jen, this time with her own special take on Rapunzel, our girl trapped in the tower. We follow Jacob, if you remember him, he’s one of Princess Charmina’s friends and personal guests during her ball. Here, we see his story. Still possible to read as a standalone, the only reference to the previous books were mentions of Princess Charmina and her ball, but nothing deliberate.
I will never shut up about Jen’s amazing magic system. In my emails with her, she mentions how the gods and goddesses they worship have a tie to the power the mages are able to use and I got a hint of that information in this book. Sure it was only mentioned for like, two? Maybe three lines of dialogue. But I take what I can get.
For the plot, in the previous book Jacob and Princess Charmina have an off-hand conversation about the sole weather-reader in the port town of Thierrol, which leads Jacob here. You find a whole other side of the spectrum of people in regards to how the node power is consumed, for better or for worse. The beauty and benefits of power, as well how much it entices the ugly side of people.
Cam, our resident Rapunzel. While she doesn’t have long hair to let down from the tower window, she yearns for freedom still. She’s strong, but she cares deeply. And it has done much against her free will. But she’s not a pushover either. She stands strong in her beliefs, even if it garners unwanted attention.
Jacob, our wandering nomad. Adventurous, free-spirited, and a heart of gold. He doesn’t give up, but is widely respectful and honorable. He’s smart, resourceful, and definitely a people-reader (though I’m sure this isn’t actually a subtype of our magic system).
The romance is to die for. There’s immediate attraction but a whole lot of tension. But the spice makes up for it with all its heat and passion. They care for each other, working to help each other out however they can. It’s the type of love that heals and reassures.
Jen, hi! Your work has been amazing to read and I’ll go through the others too! I really love your universe and the world you created and I can’t wait to read more of what you have planned! Thank you for trusting me with your book <33
September 2, 2024
Scaling the Stormy Tower is the third and last book in Jen Lynning's Once Upon an Enchantment series, and another fairytale inspires it. This time, we are gifted with a beautiful Rapunzel retelling, and if you've read the first two books, you already know that Jen is the master of fairytale retellings with a twist.
I loved Cam and Jacob's story; it was enthralling and exciting, with a swoony romance and great characters. I enjoyed Jen's twist with Cam being a weather reader tied to a magical node and thus being tasked with forever staying and leaving behind another generation of magic wielders. But Cam will do whatever it takes to regain her freedom to choose her life and how she wants to live it. Could it be that she was missing a handsome magic reader named Jacob? Hm....
Jacob was a side character in Book 2, Forging Golden Slippers, and he really shines in Scaling the Stormy Tower, quickly becoming my favourite MMC of the series. His devotion and eagerness to help Cam become who she wants to be is beautiful. And the banter between them is a chef's kiss.
So, if you loved Rapunzel before, you will love Scaling the Stormy Tower now, a story of finding and accepting yourself, fighting for the freedom to make your own choices and lead the life you want. Add a steamy, swoon-worthy romance sprinkled with a bit of fake dating, growing emotions and utter devotion to the mix. Could you ask for more? Then, add a heroine who is intelligent, feisty, and willing to fight for what she feels is right and pair her with an MMC who wants what's best for her and will do whatever it takes to help her.
Cam and Jacob are off on their adventure, leaving us with a beautiful HEA. This was the perfect ending to the series, and I am so happy I got to be Jen's ARC reader on this journey. Scaling the Stormy Tower is released on September 5th, so get ready!
Scaling the Stormy Tower offers you
- Rapunzel retelling with a twist
- She is a weather-reader
- He is a wandering magic reader
- He falls first
- Fake dating
- One plate (and one chocolate cake)
- Cute banter
- Low stakes
- HEA
and a beautiful story of love, devotion, and fighting to live the life you want!
I loved Cam and Jacob's story; it was enthralling and exciting, with a swoony romance and great characters. I enjoyed Jen's twist with Cam being a weather reader tied to a magical node and thus being tasked with forever staying and leaving behind another generation of magic wielders. But Cam will do whatever it takes to regain her freedom to choose her life and how she wants to live it. Could it be that she was missing a handsome magic reader named Jacob? Hm....
Jacob was a side character in Book 2, Forging Golden Slippers, and he really shines in Scaling the Stormy Tower, quickly becoming my favourite MMC of the series. His devotion and eagerness to help Cam become who she wants to be is beautiful. And the banter between them is a chef's kiss.
So, if you loved Rapunzel before, you will love Scaling the Stormy Tower now, a story of finding and accepting yourself, fighting for the freedom to make your own choices and lead the life you want. Add a steamy, swoon-worthy romance sprinkled with a bit of fake dating, growing emotions and utter devotion to the mix. Could you ask for more? Then, add a heroine who is intelligent, feisty, and willing to fight for what she feels is right and pair her with an MMC who wants what's best for her and will do whatever it takes to help her.
Cam and Jacob are off on their adventure, leaving us with a beautiful HEA. This was the perfect ending to the series, and I am so happy I got to be Jen's ARC reader on this journey. Scaling the Stormy Tower is released on September 5th, so get ready!
Scaling the Stormy Tower offers you
- Rapunzel retelling with a twist
- She is a weather-reader
- He is a wandering magic reader
- He falls first
- Fake dating
- One plate (and one chocolate cake)
- Cute banter
- Low stakes
- HEA
and a beautiful story of love, devotion, and fighting to live the life you want!
August 28, 2024
Scaling The Stormy Tower is a cozy,and romantic retelling of Rapunzel that is perfect for readers who love:
1.Happliy Ever Afters
2.Food especially Chocolate cake.
3.He falls first
4.Weather inspired magic
5.FMC who is not a damsel in distress
6.Cinnamon roll MMC
7.Small town by the sea
8.Found family
9.Playful banter
The author Mrs.Lynning's beautiful storytelling truly shines in every story she writes,and her attention to detail is truly magical.
Cam,and Jacob the two main characters of the story are a cute couple,and I loved the playful banter moments between them.Jacob's willingness to wait for Cam to understand her feelings,and the way he always spoils her is wonderful to see.
Cam's character growth throughout the story is well-executed,and seeing her go from being a young woman who was unsure of herself to becoming a strong,and confident individual who no longer fears the future was amazing.
I loved all the yummy food mentioned throughout the story especially the Chocolate cake,and I would absolutely love to have the recipes. Mrs Lynning's writing,and love for baking are both exemplary.
Scaling The Stormy tower is the final book in the Once Upon An Enchament series a collection of standalone fairytale retellings by author Jen Lynning,and can be read individually,but I highly recommend reading Forging Golden Slippers first before reading this book because the mmc Jacob is first introduced.
My review for the previous book Forging Golden Slippers by Jen Lynning can also be found on Goodreads,and I hope readers help to share,and love these stories just as much as I do.
The release date for Scaling The Stormy tower is September 5th 2024.
Thank you Mrs.Lynning for the wonderful opportunity to help share this lovely book with other readers.I am grateful to have been a part of your arc team.
1.Happliy Ever Afters
2.Food especially Chocolate cake.
3.He falls first
4.Weather inspired magic
5.FMC who is not a damsel in distress
6.Cinnamon roll MMC
7.Small town by the sea
8.Found family
9.Playful banter
The author Mrs.Lynning's beautiful storytelling truly shines in every story she writes,and her attention to detail is truly magical.
Cam,and Jacob the two main characters of the story are a cute couple,and I loved the playful banter moments between them.Jacob's willingness to wait for Cam to understand her feelings,and the way he always spoils her is wonderful to see.
Cam's character growth throughout the story is well-executed,and seeing her go from being a young woman who was unsure of herself to becoming a strong,and confident individual who no longer fears the future was amazing.
I loved all the yummy food mentioned throughout the story especially the Chocolate cake,and I would absolutely love to have the recipes. Mrs Lynning's writing,and love for baking are both exemplary.
Scaling The Stormy tower is the final book in the Once Upon An Enchament series a collection of standalone fairytale retellings by author Jen Lynning,and can be read individually,but I highly recommend reading Forging Golden Slippers first before reading this book because the mmc Jacob is first introduced.
My review for the previous book Forging Golden Slippers by Jen Lynning can also be found on Goodreads,and I hope readers help to share,and love these stories just as much as I do.
The release date for Scaling The Stormy tower is September 5th 2024.
Thank you Mrs.Lynning for the wonderful opportunity to help share this lovely book with other readers.I am grateful to have been a part of your arc team.
August 19, 2024
Scaling the Stormy Tower by Jen Lynning
Once Upon an Enchantment Book 3
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling/Fantasy
Format: ebook ARC
Loved:
*Rapunzul fairy tale retelling
*Great character development
*Food Lovers
*Very few curse words
*Magic system
Loved Less:
*Cam's sexuality
Description:
Cam is trapped. She is the Weather-Reader of Theirrol, her life path dictated before she was born. According to the townspeople, all she should care about is using her tie to a magical node to help them thrive. Even her personal life is a public matter in their minds, the continuation of her bloodline their only concern. But she is ready to break free.
Jacob visits Cam’s tower hoping to get a weather prediction before sailing to distant lands. But he can’t ignore the storm brewing between her and the entire town. When he ends up in the center of a matchmaking plot, he doesn’t hesitate to propose staging a fake relationship if that is what it takes to help Cam.
Kissing in the middle of the street might buy Cam time, but when real feelings develop, she can’t help but wonder if she can really escape, or if she has stolen Jacob’s freedom, too.
***A Rapunzel retelling with a stubborn FMC, steamy romance, and a HEA. ***
My opinion:
Excellent storyline with well developed figures who continue to grow throughout the novel. Cam and Jacob are both charming as main characters, especially Jacob! Gordon makes for a fabulous enemy you cant help but despise. I always adore a good fairy tale retelling, and Lynning succeeds...again...in the last book of this trilogy. The magic system with nodes, weather-telling, charms, and curses is very distinct from other writings. My only complaint is Cam's sexual preferences. I highly recommend this book and entire trilogy to anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings and/or fantasy.
Once Upon an Enchantment Book 3
4.5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling/Fantasy
Format: ebook ARC
Loved:
*Rapunzul fairy tale retelling
*Great character development
*Food Lovers
*Very few curse words
*Magic system
Loved Less:
*Cam's sexuality
Description:
Cam is trapped. She is the Weather-Reader of Theirrol, her life path dictated before she was born. According to the townspeople, all she should care about is using her tie to a magical node to help them thrive. Even her personal life is a public matter in their minds, the continuation of her bloodline their only concern. But she is ready to break free.
Jacob visits Cam’s tower hoping to get a weather prediction before sailing to distant lands. But he can’t ignore the storm brewing between her and the entire town. When he ends up in the center of a matchmaking plot, he doesn’t hesitate to propose staging a fake relationship if that is what it takes to help Cam.
Kissing in the middle of the street might buy Cam time, but when real feelings develop, she can’t help but wonder if she can really escape, or if she has stolen Jacob’s freedom, too.
***A Rapunzel retelling with a stubborn FMC, steamy romance, and a HEA. ***
My opinion:
Excellent storyline with well developed figures who continue to grow throughout the novel. Cam and Jacob are both charming as main characters, especially Jacob! Gordon makes for a fabulous enemy you cant help but despise. I always adore a good fairy tale retelling, and Lynning succeeds...again...in the last book of this trilogy. The magic system with nodes, weather-telling, charms, and curses is very distinct from other writings. My only complaint is Cam's sexual preferences. I highly recommend this book and entire trilogy to anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings and/or fantasy.
August 18, 2024
I was kindly given an advanced copy in exchange of my honest review.
The fourth and last installment in the Once Upon an Enchantment series - a novella and three standalone novels all fairy tale retellings taking place in the same interconnected world. And what a way to finish off this series!
I was very curious how Jen was going to approach the Rapunzle story because I think it’s one of the more difficult stories to retell, and it’s certainly not one of the more famous ones compared to Beauty and the Beast or Cinderella. However, Jen blew it out of the park!
Cam is a glorified and clever weather girl basically, which I think is such an interesting take on how she’d be stuck in the tower. I’d like to just take one second to appreciate the name, Campanula is a bell flower, and Rapunzle is the German word for Lamb’s Lettuce, which is also a bell flower. I love when authors are clever about names in retellings!
I really enjoyed this story, and I loved that we got to meet a character from one of the other stories, and other characters are referred to as well, just connecting this world more. I liked how Cam was split between duty (staying in town) and her own freedom, and how that weighted on her. I think as women we can definitely relate to how she’s feeling, and why she’s conforming to a very large extent while trying to exert whatever little power/freedom she does have.
This was a delight to read and I managed to consume it basically in one sitting! If you are looking for a cozy fairytale retelling please give Once Upon an Enchantment a go!
The fourth and last installment in the Once Upon an Enchantment series - a novella and three standalone novels all fairy tale retellings taking place in the same interconnected world. And what a way to finish off this series!
I was very curious how Jen was going to approach the Rapunzle story because I think it’s one of the more difficult stories to retell, and it’s certainly not one of the more famous ones compared to Beauty and the Beast or Cinderella. However, Jen blew it out of the park!
Cam is a glorified and clever weather girl basically, which I think is such an interesting take on how she’d be stuck in the tower. I’d like to just take one second to appreciate the name, Campanula is a bell flower, and Rapunzle is the German word for Lamb’s Lettuce, which is also a bell flower. I love when authors are clever about names in retellings!
I really enjoyed this story, and I loved that we got to meet a character from one of the other stories, and other characters are referred to as well, just connecting this world more. I liked how Cam was split between duty (staying in town) and her own freedom, and how that weighted on her. I think as women we can definitely relate to how she’s feeling, and why she’s conforming to a very large extent while trying to exert whatever little power/freedom she does have.
This was a delight to read and I managed to consume it basically in one sitting! If you are looking for a cozy fairytale retelling please give Once Upon an Enchantment a go!
September 2, 2024
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
📚ARC Review📚
“I like to think I’m a nice person, in general. But Cammie? I would damn everyone—trample them beneath my feet—for you.”
⛅He Falls First
⛈️HAE
⛅Fake Dating
⛈️Cinnamon Roll MMC (Whose Not Afraid to Defend His Girl)
⛅Chocolate Cake
⛈️Food = The Way to Her Heart
AN ✨EXTENDED VERSION✨ OF THIS REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on the 📝I’m Literary Anxious Blog📝 or my 📖📚Bookstagram📚📖
Just finished this ARC, and all I can say is WOW.
Whatever the question, the answer is yes. “Did you enjoy the book?” Yes. “Would you recommend it?” Yes. “Is Jacob joining the long list of book boyfriends?” Yes. “Who do you like more, Alan or Jacob?” YES.
I love how Jacob is all about helping Cam, putting her first no matter what—even if she doesn’t return his feelings. And that epic tongue-lashing he gave the entire town? *Chef’s kiss.*
Blurb
Cam is stuck as Thierrol’s Weather-Reader, with her life dictated by the town’s obsession with her bloodline—no pressure, right? Jacob shows up for a simple weather prediction and instead finds himself in the middle of a matchmaking circus. His solution? Fake date Cam. A few public kisses might buy her some time, but when real sparks start flying, Cam’s left wondering if she’s breaking free or just dragging Jacob into her storm.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
📚ARC Review📚
“I like to think I’m a nice person, in general. But Cammie? I would damn everyone—trample them beneath my feet—for you.”
⛅He Falls First
⛈️HAE
⛅Fake Dating
⛈️Cinnamon Roll MMC (Whose Not Afraid to Defend His Girl)
⛅Chocolate Cake
⛈️Food = The Way to Her Heart
AN ✨EXTENDED VERSION✨ OF THIS REVIEW AND OTHERS can also be found on the 📝I’m Literary Anxious Blog📝 or my 📖📚Bookstagram📚📖
Just finished this ARC, and all I can say is WOW.
Whatever the question, the answer is yes. “Did you enjoy the book?” Yes. “Would you recommend it?” Yes. “Is Jacob joining the long list of book boyfriends?” Yes. “Who do you like more, Alan or Jacob?” YES.
I love how Jacob is all about helping Cam, putting her first no matter what—even if she doesn’t return his feelings. And that epic tongue-lashing he gave the entire town? *Chef’s kiss.*
Blurb
Cam is stuck as Thierrol’s Weather-Reader, with her life dictated by the town’s obsession with her bloodline—no pressure, right? Jacob shows up for a simple weather prediction and instead finds himself in the middle of a matchmaking circus. His solution? Fake date Cam. A few public kisses might buy her some time, but when real sparks start flying, Cam’s left wondering if she’s breaking free or just dragging Jacob into her storm.
August 25, 2024
Escape from this tower requires more than a rope? Well, Cam's got a whole storm to reckon with—and I'm not just talking about the weather! 🌩️
In Scaling the Stormy Tower, Cam’s trapped in her own personal Rapunzel situation, except her golden hair has been replaced with a duty-bound life as the Weather-Reader of Theirrol. If the town had its way, she’d be reading the forecast for their perfect lives 24/7 and popping out little Weather-Readers like some magical factory. But our girl Cam? She’s ready to trade the tower life for freedom. Enter Jacob—sailor extraordinaire, and now, her accidental partner in crime (or, you know, fake relationship).
Jacob arrives looking for a weather report and sails right into the eye of Cam’s life storm. When the town's matchmaking mischief ropes him in, he offers up a fake relationship quicker than you can say, “Kiss me, Cam!” 💋 But with real feelings sparking in the air like a lightning storm, this charade quickly turns into something more electrifying.
Jen Lynning delivers a Rapunzel retelling that’s equal parts steamy romance and epic escape plan. With a stubborn FMC, an MMC who can't resist playing hero, and a plot that’s more tangled than Rapunzel's hair ever was, Scaling the Stormy Tower is a whirlwind read that’ll have you cheering for Cam’s freedom while swooning over Jacob’s every move. And yes, there’s a happily ever after—because who doesn’t love a good storm with a bright rainbow at the end? 🌈
⚓ Verdict: Anchors aweigh, readers! This one’s a must-read if you’re all about stormy romances and heroines ready to break free.
In Scaling the Stormy Tower, Cam’s trapped in her own personal Rapunzel situation, except her golden hair has been replaced with a duty-bound life as the Weather-Reader of Theirrol. If the town had its way, she’d be reading the forecast for their perfect lives 24/7 and popping out little Weather-Readers like some magical factory. But our girl Cam? She’s ready to trade the tower life for freedom. Enter Jacob—sailor extraordinaire, and now, her accidental partner in crime (or, you know, fake relationship).
Jacob arrives looking for a weather report and sails right into the eye of Cam’s life storm. When the town's matchmaking mischief ropes him in, he offers up a fake relationship quicker than you can say, “Kiss me, Cam!” 💋 But with real feelings sparking in the air like a lightning storm, this charade quickly turns into something more electrifying.
Jen Lynning delivers a Rapunzel retelling that’s equal parts steamy romance and epic escape plan. With a stubborn FMC, an MMC who can't resist playing hero, and a plot that’s more tangled than Rapunzel's hair ever was, Scaling the Stormy Tower is a whirlwind read that’ll have you cheering for Cam’s freedom while swooning over Jacob’s every move. And yes, there’s a happily ever after—because who doesn’t love a good storm with a bright rainbow at the end? 🌈
⚓ Verdict: Anchors aweigh, readers! This one’s a must-read if you’re all about stormy romances and heroines ready to break free.
September 3, 2024
Another really enjoyable twist on a classic fairytale, this is a very different to any Rapunzel story I've ever read before. Our FMC Cam is powerful and skilled in her own right, but is trapped by her neighbours and unable to see a way out. We met the MMC, Jacob, in an earlier book, but here he gets to shine with all his righteous fury. And it is righteous - the townspeople here are all completely awful. If I had any criticism for this book it's that it didn't go even nearly far enough in punishing the townspeople - all of them, even Cam's ‘friends’ - for what they did to her. That it was based in tradition was not an excuse. That she had hid some of how it made her feel is not an excuse. From very early in the story I wanted to watch the whole town burn.
This book is a lot more spice forward than the rest of the series, something I thought worked really well given the anxieties our FMC had around intimacy. To my preferences it could have easily have gone further, but in all this is a really nicely balanced story. While I think the story would work as a standalone, the magic system may be a bit difficult to understand with out the context of the previous two books. I hope Lynning writes more in this world - theres still plenty left to explore, both in terms of the magic system and the political climate the world exists in. A very enjoyable and readable book!
I read an advance copy of this book- my thoughts are very much my own.
This book is a lot more spice forward than the rest of the series, something I thought worked really well given the anxieties our FMC had around intimacy. To my preferences it could have easily have gone further, but in all this is a really nicely balanced story. While I think the story would work as a standalone, the magic system may be a bit difficult to understand with out the context of the previous two books. I hope Lynning writes more in this world - theres still plenty left to explore, both in terms of the magic system and the political climate the world exists in. A very enjoyable and readable book!
I read an advance copy of this book- my thoughts are very much my own.
September 5, 2024
Jen Lynning strikes again with her Rapunzel-inspired novel, Scaling the Stormy Tower. This book is so easy to get lost into, the story flows so pleasantly, you won't even realize how long you've been reading until something else brings you back to the real world.
I always love Jen's characters and Cam and Jacob are no exception. The way he dropped everything to ensure her freedom, when everyone around was determined to keep Cam entrapped in her role as the town's infamous weather-reader, had me rooting for him. Cam, being strong-willed and unused to being put first, had to take the time to come around Jacob's advances and feelings, but there was no doubt that they'd get their happily ever after.
I do struggle a bit with the magic system in this world even though I enjoy the concept of the nodes and blood-ties. I just think the strands and knots the whole trying to tie people to the node was overly complicated, it lost me. The whole conclusion about the town and the reasons why Cam was stuck there felt a bit weak as well compared to the rest of the story.
This is still a solid book that I liked a lot.
You'll enjoy this book if you're into:
🏰 Fairytale retellings
🍰 Fake dating
🏰 He falls first
🍰 Close proximity (there's more than one bed, but they still share one)
🏰 He comforts her when she has nightmares
🍰 Sassy FMC
🏰 Cinnamon roll MMC
Thank you to the author for providing me with an early copy of the book.
I always love Jen's characters and Cam and Jacob are no exception. The way he dropped everything to ensure her freedom, when everyone around was determined to keep Cam entrapped in her role as the town's infamous weather-reader, had me rooting for him. Cam, being strong-willed and unused to being put first, had to take the time to come around Jacob's advances and feelings, but there was no doubt that they'd get their happily ever after.
I do struggle a bit with the magic system in this world even though I enjoy the concept of the nodes and blood-ties. I just think the strands and knots the whole trying to tie people to the node was overly complicated, it lost me. The whole conclusion about the town and the reasons why Cam was stuck there felt a bit weak as well compared to the rest of the story.
This is still a solid book that I liked a lot.
You'll enjoy this book if you're into:
🏰 Fairytale retellings
🍰 Fake dating
🏰 He falls first
🍰 Close proximity (there's more than one bed, but they still share one)
🏰 He comforts her when she has nightmares
🍰 Sassy FMC
🏰 Cinnamon roll MMC
Thank you to the author for providing me with an early copy of the book.
August 30, 2024
Such a clever Rapunzel retelling!
Cam (our female protagonist) is stuck in a tower, not because a witch has removed her ability to get down, but because the entire town is so scared of losing her as the town's main source of revenue that they turn a blind eye to the powerful people keeping her trapped.
Jacob is a breath of fresh air and I love the balance of him offering practical help while simultaneously building trust with Cam, who has reason to think he'll be just as willing to manipulate her as everyone else in town.
I love that we got to see more of Jacob (faithful readers may remember him as one of Princess Charmina's friends) and that he is such a kind force for good in Cam's life.
I didn't know how much I needed to read this book until it was in my hands. Jen Lynning does an amazing job of balancing Cam's capability and independence with the reality of needing outside help to escape such an abusive situation. Cam fights her own battles for the most part, with Jacob offering the unending support and compassion that I wish everyone in such horrible circumstances could find.
I didn't think it would be possible for any of these books to unseat Deceiving the Cursed Beast as my favorite in the series, but this book surpassed all my expectations. 10/10!
ARC review, all opinions are my own.
Cam (our female protagonist) is stuck in a tower, not because a witch has removed her ability to get down, but because the entire town is so scared of losing her as the town's main source of revenue that they turn a blind eye to the powerful people keeping her trapped.
Jacob is a breath of fresh air and I love the balance of him offering practical help while simultaneously building trust with Cam, who has reason to think he'll be just as willing to manipulate her as everyone else in town.
I love that we got to see more of Jacob (faithful readers may remember him as one of Princess Charmina's friends) and that he is such a kind force for good in Cam's life.
I didn't know how much I needed to read this book until it was in my hands. Jen Lynning does an amazing job of balancing Cam's capability and independence with the reality of needing outside help to escape such an abusive situation. Cam fights her own battles for the most part, with Jacob offering the unending support and compassion that I wish everyone in such horrible circumstances could find.
I didn't think it would be possible for any of these books to unseat Deceiving the Cursed Beast as my favorite in the series, but this book surpassed all my expectations. 10/10!
ARC review, all opinions are my own.
August 19, 2024
The story of Cam and Jacob is wonderful to read. It is also nice to see the loose connections between this book and the previous books in the series. Although the book was sometimes a bit slow, the end of the story makes up for everything
Blurb
Escape from this tower will require more than a rope.
Cam is trapped. She is the Weather-Reader of Thierrol, her life path dictated before she was born. According to the townspeople, all she should care about is using her tie to a magical node to help them thrive. Even her personal life is a public matter in their minds, the continuation of her bloodline their only concern. But she is ready to break free.
Jacob visits Cam’s tower hoping to get a weather prediction before sailing to distant lands. But he can’t ignore the storm brewing between her and the entire town. When he ends up in the center of a matchmaking plot, he doesn’t hesitate to propose staging a fake relationship if that is what it takes to help Cam.
Kissing in the middle of the street might buy Cam time, but when real feelings develop, she can’t help but wonder if she can really escape, or if she has stolen Jacob’s freedom, too.
***A Rapunzel retelling with a stubborn FMC, steamy romance, and a happily ever after.***
#ScalingTheStormyTower #OnceUponAnEnchantment
Blurb
Escape from this tower will require more than a rope.
Cam is trapped. She is the Weather-Reader of Thierrol, her life path dictated before she was born. According to the townspeople, all she should care about is using her tie to a magical node to help them thrive. Even her personal life is a public matter in their minds, the continuation of her bloodline their only concern. But she is ready to break free.
Jacob visits Cam’s tower hoping to get a weather prediction before sailing to distant lands. But he can’t ignore the storm brewing between her and the entire town. When he ends up in the center of a matchmaking plot, he doesn’t hesitate to propose staging a fake relationship if that is what it takes to help Cam.
Kissing in the middle of the street might buy Cam time, but when real feelings develop, she can’t help but wonder if she can really escape, or if she has stolen Jacob’s freedom, too.
***A Rapunzel retelling with a stubborn FMC, steamy romance, and a happily ever after.***
#ScalingTheStormyTower #OnceUponAnEnchantment
August 31, 2024
I loved this book. This book is part of the Once Upon an Enchantment series by Jen Lynning. As with the other books in this series, it is a retelling of a fairy tale. This time it is Rapunzel.
Cam, the weather reader of the city of Thierrol, is bound to her tower and the city. She is strong and stands by her beliefs. She yearns to be free since her freedom is seriously curtailed by everyone in the city. Everyone cares about her personal life because they want her bloodline to continue. She is also somewhat conflicted and somewhat stubborn and her experiences growing up have not made her be particularly trusting.
Jacob, who we met briefly in the previous book of this series (Forging Golden Slippers), is a wandering traveler. He is a wonderful character. He has integrity, is helpful, respectful and good looking :-) He is also smart and resourceful. I really liked him as a character!
The chemistry between the two is wonderful and how their romance develops is heart warming. I also loved how this book took the Rapunzel fairy tale and reimagined it. Even though this is the last book in this series, I do hope we get more tales in this universe.
Thank you to Jen Lynning for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team.
Cam, the weather reader of the city of Thierrol, is bound to her tower and the city. She is strong and stands by her beliefs. She yearns to be free since her freedom is seriously curtailed by everyone in the city. Everyone cares about her personal life because they want her bloodline to continue. She is also somewhat conflicted and somewhat stubborn and her experiences growing up have not made her be particularly trusting.
Jacob, who we met briefly in the previous book of this series (Forging Golden Slippers), is a wandering traveler. He is a wonderful character. He has integrity, is helpful, respectful and good looking :-) He is also smart and resourceful. I really liked him as a character!
The chemistry between the two is wonderful and how their romance develops is heart warming. I also loved how this book took the Rapunzel fairy tale and reimagined it. Even though this is the last book in this series, I do hope we get more tales in this universe.
Thank you to Jen Lynning for the opportunity to be part of the ARC team.
August 22, 2024
Scaling The Stormy Tower
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I was very curious how Jen would write a Rapunzel retelling, because I have never read one before, and I was definitely pleasantly surprised!
The story follows Cam, a weather reader for a small town, trapped in a tower and blood-tied to an orb that provides her the ability to forecast the weather. Unfortunately she does not want this life, but she’s trapped by the townsfolk, but everything changes when Jacob, an adventurous sailor visits the town for a weather reading. Cam only wants her freedom, and Jacob becomes determined to help, whether she wants to or not.
This was such a light hearted and interesting book! I loved the romance between Cam and Jacob, Jacob was a really swoon worthy MCC, he was pure goodness. Cam was feisty and determined, but pure at heart.
The only thing I disliked about the book was that it could be a little slow at times, and the fact that we didn’t see more of the villains' downfall, I would have liked a harsher punishment for everything he put Cam through.
Overall, would I recommend reading it if you want a fast and fun Rapunzel retelling? Yes!
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I was very curious how Jen would write a Rapunzel retelling, because I have never read one before, and I was definitely pleasantly surprised!
The story follows Cam, a weather reader for a small town, trapped in a tower and blood-tied to an orb that provides her the ability to forecast the weather. Unfortunately she does not want this life, but she’s trapped by the townsfolk, but everything changes when Jacob, an adventurous sailor visits the town for a weather reading. Cam only wants her freedom, and Jacob becomes determined to help, whether she wants to or not.
This was such a light hearted and interesting book! I loved the romance between Cam and Jacob, Jacob was a really swoon worthy MCC, he was pure goodness. Cam was feisty and determined, but pure at heart.
The only thing I disliked about the book was that it could be a little slow at times, and the fact that we didn’t see more of the villains' downfall, I would have liked a harsher punishment for everything he put Cam through.
Overall, would I recommend reading it if you want a fast and fun Rapunzel retelling? Yes!
August 17, 2024
ARC Review:
Scaling The Stormy Tower by Jen Lynning is the third book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series. This is a Rapunzel retelling with fake dating and a bisexual FMC. This was a good Rapunzel retelling. This book was enjoyable. I personally had a hard time connecting with the main characters. I did not hate them but I just felt there was something missing. I thought the plot was interesting and kept me engaged in the storyline.
Cam was determined, feisty, and caring. Jacob was sweet and supportive. I did like the romance between these two for the most part. They start off fake dating to get the townsfolk off Cam’s back. I really did not like the townsfolk and how they treated Cam. They basically took away her autotomy. I do not know how you forgive people that treated you so horribly your whole life. Jacob was like a saving grace for Cam to finally escape this town. I liked watching their relationship progress. The overall plot of this book was good. This was a short and easy read! I do recommend this book if you want a quick and easy Rapunzel retelling! This is the third book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series. I personally liked the first two books better than this one but they are all overall good fairytale retellings.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
HAPPY READING
Scaling The Stormy Tower by Jen Lynning is the third book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series. This is a Rapunzel retelling with fake dating and a bisexual FMC. This was a good Rapunzel retelling. This book was enjoyable. I personally had a hard time connecting with the main characters. I did not hate them but I just felt there was something missing. I thought the plot was interesting and kept me engaged in the storyline.
Cam was determined, feisty, and caring. Jacob was sweet and supportive. I did like the romance between these two for the most part. They start off fake dating to get the townsfolk off Cam’s back. I really did not like the townsfolk and how they treated Cam. They basically took away her autotomy. I do not know how you forgive people that treated you so horribly your whole life. Jacob was like a saving grace for Cam to finally escape this town. I liked watching their relationship progress. The overall plot of this book was good. This was a short and easy read! I do recommend this book if you want a quick and easy Rapunzel retelling! This is the third book in the Once Upon an Enchantment series. I personally liked the first two books better than this one but they are all overall good fairytale retellings.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
HAPPY READING
September 20, 2024
Ah what an amazing fairytale retelling. Honestly, amazing concept, not what I was expecting at all but so creativ!
Gripping from the start, fake dating, he falls first, HEA... It's so good!
The writing is especially easy to follow and it's duel-pov which I love! Even the few little spicy scenes were 🌶️🔥🥵
Cam is incredible and so strong-willed. It just love everything about her
And now all I want is some chocolate cake!
I don't think I've ever related to a character more, and that's mostly because we're both foodies! Yes!
I love the "Gaston" vibe that the villain, Gordon, was giving, and I really wish we'd be able to read about his punishment at the end of the book. I'd have loved to have wished him a not so grand ol' fairwell 😂
But, I'm so happy with the way it ended though, and I'd love to read all about Cam's and Jacob's future adventures!
So for me is a solid 4⭐
"I might shovel cake into my mouth at an unhealthy speed, but I don't need two forks" - might be my favorite quote ever 🤣
Gripping from the start, fake dating, he falls first, HEA... It's so good!
The writing is especially easy to follow and it's duel-pov which I love! Even the few little spicy scenes were 🌶️🔥🥵
Cam is incredible and so strong-willed. It just love everything about her
And now all I want is some chocolate cake!
I don't think I've ever related to a character more, and that's mostly because we're both foodies! Yes!
I love the "Gaston" vibe that the villain, Gordon, was giving, and I really wish we'd be able to read about his punishment at the end of the book. I'd have loved to have wished him a not so grand ol' fairwell 😂
But, I'm so happy with the way it ended though, and I'd love to read all about Cam's and Jacob's future adventures!
So for me is a solid 4⭐
"I might shovel cake into my mouth at an unhealthy speed, but I don't need two forks" - might be my favorite quote ever 🤣
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