Beasts of Briar

Stolen Crowns #5

by Tee Harlowe

Everyone sees him as a monster. Except her.

Bellamy’s brothers have been cursed for sixty years, stuck living as swans. She has only a short amount of time left to break the curse, or they’ll be trapped forever. Luckily, she’s finally discovered how.

Unluckily, it involves traveling to the deadly shadow court and harvesting the thorny nettle weed that grows in the castle gardens, which Bellamy must use to knit sweaters. One sweater for each of her seven brothers—and she cannot utter a single word until the curse is broken.

When the fearsome and mysterious shadow king catches her and offers safe haven, she doesn’t know what to think. She’s hated him her entire life for the atrocities he committed against her people. Yet there’s something alluring beneath his shadowy exterior, and she finds herself drawn to him against all better judgment.

But a bigger evil looms over her, one that doesn’t want this curse broken. One that’s not just a threat to Bellamy, but to the entire world. And she may be the only one who can stop it.

Beasts of Briar is the final book in Stolen Crowns , a series of steamy standalone but interconnected fairytale retellings. This Wild Swan meets Beauty and the Beast retelling is perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers, shadow daddies, and slow-burn fantasy romance.

Genres: Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Retellings

374 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 16, 2025

Reviews

[Chaotic Bookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made me happy and sad at the same time, happy because it was such a fantastic read and sad because the realisation hit that this is the final book for the Stolen Crown series. But the author did not disappoint ending the series with a bang! Filled with loveable characters and great storyline, adventure and mystery. I love the unique twist of this retelling. Even though this series is interconnected standalones I found this book pulled them all together beautifully. fantastic finale and definitely recommend

[eclecticbychoicereads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly, there isn't a world in which I wouldn't love Tee's books. She has some hidden magic, and I guess she just sprinkles her fairy dust all over her books, making them so enchanting and addictive. There, that is the most plausible explanation I can come up with.

And fairy dust (or should I say pixie) was abundantly used in the Beasts of Briar, the fifth and final book in Tee's Stolen Crowns series. I often wonder how each of her books can be so good, and with every release, I am reminded that they can be, Beasts of Briar being no exception to the rule. I have only one complaint: How is this the end? What am I to do with myself now that the series has ended? How could I say goodbye to everyone, especially Driscoll and Leoni?

While this is a series of interconnected standalones, I strongly recommend you read each and every book. You will connect the dots, understand the world and its history so much better, and you will get to enjoy each story so much more.

Beasts of Briar truly was the perfect epic conclusion to the romantasy series that captured my heart and my soul. I loved every second of it; I devoured the story, needing to know what happens next. It's so hard to pick favorites among Tee's characters, but... Kairoth was something special. His story and his trauma made me cry, and I was rooting so hard for Bellamy and him to find inner peace and home in each other. Bellamy was also a devastatingly beautifully crafted character, flawed in her own ways.

Beasts of Briar may be seen as a Wild Swan meets Beauty and the Beast retelling, but it is so much more. It is a wondrous tale of two people learning to trust and hope, two people opening their hearts after so much hurt and betrayal, two people finding sanctuary in one another. Add perfect Driscoll and Leoni banter and quips to the mix, and you will get a story you will love to love.

Beasts of Briar is releasing on January 16th, and I am so happy I got to follow Tee on this marvellous journey.

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series finale brings all the events together as they must face the shadowy threat and discover what all the weapons purpose is.
Bellamy is on a mission to free her brothers from a curse, and to get revenge on the Shadow King that destroyed her Court.
Bellamy is mute so she uses a combination of sign language and her magic abilities to dreamwalk to communicate and influence.
The extent of her powers are still unknown but she's growing stronger everyday, especially as she battles to save her loved ones.
It still has the classic wit and banter from Leoni and Driscoll who are along the ride once again, as they reluctantly work with Bellamy and try to stay alive on the island.
We finally get to meet Kairoth, the mysterious villain that has been ever present but always unknown. He's the shadowy threat that has been influencing all the chaos, stealing shadows and trapping boys, and rules over Neverland, but here we get to understand the man behind the monster.
This series combines fairytale elements of Peter Pan, Rapunzel, Snow white, Alice in wonderland, and now Beauty and the beast. It's a slow burn Romantasy where enemies fall for each other, curses must be broken, secrets unraveled, and kingdoms must be saved.
This definitely had some intriguing twists, high stakes, and emotional moments.



🦢"Maybe I like the monsters. Maybe I feel more at home with monsters than I do with anyone else"

🦢"You put some kind of spell on me, Bellamy. It's the only way I can explain why I felt the need to tear down this entire mountain when I thought you were in danger"

🦢"Listen, I love a good shadow Daddy as much as anyone else. But Leoni's right. You can't fall for him. We have a job to do"

[Noelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly… how Tee gave us five perfect and amazing books (and a novella) - I’m not sure. I’m just grateful. Each book I have fallen in love with the characters and Beast of Briar was no different. I was enthralled page one. I absolutely loved Bellamy’s character - she was such determined and strong FMC. I loved watching her as she opened up to those who were willing to help her so she didn’t have to shoulder it all herself. The minute Shadow Daddy Kairoth came into the book though…. I was sucked in and there was no hope for me. I am obsessed with his character and learning his backstory was my favorite part. It has blown me away this entire series how Tee has been able to weave the underlying plot/storyline of the gods and their magic throughout the kingdoms and history - yet each book is its own amazing story that can be read on its own. It was amazing to finally have the gods and their stories tied up and concluded. The spice was perfect. Driscoll was perfect - he literally wins best side character (along with Leoni) and he had me dying throughout of course. Driscoll was literally the star of the series. I’m so sad the series is over but couldn’t have asked for a better conclusion!

Bravo!!

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

✨Beasts of Briar✨

Tee does it once again and takes us out with a bang on this finale! The fifth and final installment of her interconnected stand-alone fairytale retellings, our overarching plot finally comes to its conclusion with a Wild Swan meets Beauty and the Beast (but make him a shadow daddy beast 🤭😜).

In BOB, we follow a dual POV: Bellamy, a woman from the forsaken star court who has been cursed to not speak until she frees her brothers from their swan forms or they’ll become swans forever, and Kairoth, the villain we have been accusing since book one, the shadow stealing Spirit Shadow. We have met Bellamy lightly in the previous book and in this one, she has stolen a magical item and is now attempting to kill Spirit Shadow as well as make the nettle sweaters to free her brothers, which of course is on Kairoth’s castle grounds.

Reluctantly accompanied by our favorite hilarious and dynamic duo, Driscoll and Leoni, Bellamy finds herself a “guest” in Spirit Shadow’s home. It is within these walls that she cannot leave that her past, secrets, and heart are revealed, tried, and tested.
The gods will be released and they are ANGRY.
The end requires sacrifice.
But will it be lives or hearts? Or both?

I always love reading anything by Tee. I always know I will be well taken care of with plenty of swooning, banter, and balance low stakes/cozy/yet smooth and engaging entertainment. And this was exactly that!

Tropes you may find in BOB are shadow daddy MMC, FMC who uses sign language, found family, slow burn to medium spice, shadow play, he tends her wounds, banter, 🔥 the world for her, elemental powers, meddling gods, forced proximity, and a HEA.

It has been such a pleasure to be an arc reader for the fourth time for sweet Tee. Thank you so much!

[Jozie | Cozy Romantasy Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't stop crying, OMG. That final battle was intense and emotional. What a way to end a series!

Beasts of Briar is a Beauty and the Beast x The Wild Swan retelling and the final book in Tee Harlowe's Stolen Crowns series.

Bellemy has finally escaped from the Wilds with her seven brothers. Her family had been cursed; her brothers were transformed into swans while Belle was unable to speak. To break the curse, she must travel to the Sorrengard, collect nettleweed, and knit seven sweaters. While collecting the nettles, Bellemy is captured by Spirit Shadow himself. Destroying the god is part of her path, but maybe he isn't the monster that everyone believes him to be.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I loved every one of the books I've read from this series, but this book hit me hard! The final battle was intense, action-packed, and emotional. My heart was racing, and the tears wouldn't stop coming.

Bellemy is fierce, stubborn, and powerful. This is a journey of self-discovery for her, where she discovers who she really is and her star magic's potential. She constantly risks her life to save her brothers and learns that she doesn't have to do it alone anymore.

I'm in love with my new shadow daddy, Kairoth. On the outside, he is terrifying with glowing red eyes and his shadows, creating a beast around him. He is the punisher, the God of Death, but it was pushed on him by the others. He wanted a change, and he is ready to right his wrongs.

beauty and the beast • the wild swans • retelling • romantasy • high fantasy • fairytale • shadow daddy • slow burn • enemies to lovers • spicy • multiple pov • gods/goddess' • self-discovery

[Sara Faye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Instant 5 star read. An adventure to the shadow island, a curse to break, enemies to face, friends to be made, stories to be told. A phenomenal twisted tale of beauty and the beast meets wild swan that will keep you saying, “just one more chapter.”

Can we say shadow daddy?! Because oh my goodness, Kairoth. Him and those shadows. I’ve fallen for the beast. But like, can you blame me? But also my heart was breaking for him. Painted as the villain but there are always two sides to every story.

Chapter 71… my freaking heart

What an epic ending to the Stolen Crowns Series. I’m so sad it’s over. But holy moly it was fantastic and I will definitely be rereading. I’ve grown attached to all of the characters and don’t want to say goodbye. Driscoll will forever have a place in my heart. A 10/10 supporting character that will have your back and will keep you entertained with his gossip.

Read if you enjoy:
🖤 fairytale retellings
🦢 enemies to lovers
🖤 forced proximity
🦢 slow burn
🖤 tons of banter

[Rid · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a really hard time getting into this book, but it was maybe just because I wasn’t ready for this story to end!! This book wrapped everything up nicely in the end and I really enjoyed how everything seemed to come together from the first 4 books.

I really loved the strong character FMC, Bellamy, and the MMC was definitely my favorite out of all in this series. Of course, the thing that makes these books great is the chemistry and banter between Driscoll and Leoni which never disappoints!!

This book did feel like it crammed in a lot of content and storytelling, which was successful with the jump backs in time. However, I do think this series could’ve been at least 1 or 2 books longer to really fully dive into the storyline of the spirits, their creation, and their ultimate demise.

Overall, I really enjoyed the book and can’t wait to see what Tee Harlowe works on next!!

[Hope Basher · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am so sad this series is over. Reading the blurb and knowing that these were all interconnected stand-alones, I decided to read book one on a whim and I’m so glad I did! Sure, you could read each individually or out of order but you’d miss out on the brilliant storytelling, epic banter, and just how wonderfully she brings everything full circle. Tee did such an amazing job not only blending beloved fairytales together in a new way, but building an epic world with multifaceted characters.

Each book roped me in and this one was no different. I fell in love with each of the characters along the way. I have never loved side characters more but Driscoll and Leoni’s friendship, adventures and banter throughout the series was literally everything! I loved how Tee wrapped up this series, bringing back all of our beloved characters and ending it all so perfectly.

If you love fairytales reimagined, magical systems, shadow daddy’s, he falls first, strong FMC, curses, hidden identities, then this book and the whole series is a must read!

Thank you Tee, for the ARC and giving me the opportunity to discover this amazing series and thus starting my new year reading off with a bang!

*ARC Review*

[Sarah J Stebbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75 (really, really great)

With each book I read of this series more breadcrumbs were sprinkled about the overarching story and I was excited to read the culmination of it all in this final book. I was not disappointed! This Beauty and the Beast inspired and yet unique story brought everything together. As with the other books in this series I enjoyed the characters, the story, the twists and turns - I figured out some things and not others - and just thoroughly enjoyed it overall. I may have to buy this and re-read at some point.

[Bobbi Lawson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This just barely hit a 3 star for me. I liked the premise but I feel like the end was just a whole lot of stories in one. Like oh let’s throw in all the twists we can at the very end. It was slow, slow, slow, 200 mph. Got some whiplash in the end. I felt these characters did have depth which helped, I just felt that book had so many twist and was so action at the end, that’s when it was hard to follow.

[Lisa Conant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
Spice: 🌶🌶  out of 5

💥High Stakes Fantasy
💫Dream Walking
💝Found Family
🥀Tormented anti-hero
🖤 Series "Villain" Shadow Daddy
🫂Forced Proximity
💭Banter

✨️Review
One of my most favorite fantasy series is over and it came to the most exciting, adrenaline pumping, humor laced, passionate and epic ending. All books in this series have been 5 stars for me,  but I may actually honor this one as my fave!

And that is because of a certain shadow daddy...Kairoth. his build up and hints through the series have been so strategic, an eerily ghost like prescence pervading our main couple in each book. He has such a crucial role in the overall arc of the grand narrative and he did not disappoint.
An anti-hero of sorts, a villain, morally grey, powerful, s3xy, inner demons. He's all of the above and I loved how his painful and complicated past is unfolded.

Bellamy is so strong and learning of powers she isn't fully aware of. She, like Kairoth, know loneliness, of being hurt by one's you loved and finding it hard to trust and open up.

One of the most welcome touches was having reunited characters from all our previous stories take part in the penultimate battle between light and dark,  gods and mortals. Akin to an "Endgame" finale, we are treated to a showdown of fire, light, explosions, trickery, and sacrifice. And I would be remiss not to mention that our "Rosencrantz & Gildenstern" of sorts, ie Driscoll and Loni return again for the most witty comebacks. There always bits of humor in these books that balances so well with the action and drama (much like our fave Marvel movies)

This series is pure gold! I was riveted by the finale, a bombastic display that left palms sweaty and my chest gasping for air. I love this couple so much but Kairoth is just a chef's kiss shadow daddy (and he has SKILLS with his shadows, lemme tell ya!). Get this series if you want epic fantasy, high seas adventures, wicked banter and heated s3xual tension, charming and cunning men, fiesty and strong women, inclusive characters and found family, heartwrenching drama and just thrilling adventure. Tee, thank you for this world,  I can't wait to resist them all one day!

NOTE: This is the final book (5) in the Stolen Crowns series. The earlier ones are standalone that all tie together and lead up to this villain that's been teased, so I highly reccomend to read at least one other from the series to get a feel for the world, characters, villain. You'll get so much more out of it!

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tee has done it again! A lovely ending to the Stolen Crowns series!

While this is a series of interconnected standalones, there are some characters that appear in multiple stories. The FMC in this story Bellamy was a side character with a complex background in the previous story Wilds of Wonder. She made some questionable decisions in that story, so I loved getting to see more of her motivations in Beasts of Briar.

We actually get 3 POVs in this story, Bellamy, the MMC Kairoth, and a mystery male. I spent quite a bit of time thinking that this third POV was Kairoth but just back when he was first made a god. However, when Kairoth came into the story during this third POV, I had to go back to the drawing board. We finally learn towards the end that the third POV is from an immortal man, who turns out to be Bellamy’s father.

Bellamy starts our story with 2 goals: find the briars (nettle weed) to knit into sweaters so she can free her 7 brothers from their curse, and kill Spirit Shadow, aka Kairoth. Because of her actions during Wilds of Wonder, Driscoll and Leoni have been chasing her down. I loved that they were so prevalent during this story! Driscoll’s comic relief was amazing.

We get some Peter Pan vibes with the lost boys on Spirit Shadow’s island Neverland, and Beauty and the Beast vibes with Bellamy, Leoni, and Driscoll being unable to leave, and staying as guests in Kairoth’s castle. The more time they spend there, the more Bellamy learns more about Kairoth and sees he’s not the monster and villain she thought. And in any case, in Bellamy’s words:

“Maybe I like the monsters. Maybe I feel more at home with monsters than I do with anyone else.”

I truly loved the building of Bellamy and Kairoth’s love story, how they were able to find companionship and love with each other when they felt so alone before. My one complaint is the spice, while very well-written, didn’t really need to be there. It felt a little out of place.

While I haven’t read the entirety of the Stolen Crowns series, the end of bringing all the main couples from the previous stories was super cute and is a great wrap up to this series.

Definitely check this story out if you love a story that has Wild Swan meets Beauty and the Beast, enemies to lovers, shadow daddies, and a slow burn romance.

I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.

[Sabrina Flanagan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 STARS

Shadow daddy, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, ancient curse, Wild Swan x Beauty and the Beast

Beasts of Briar, the final book in the Stolen Crowns series by Tee Harlowe, follows Bellamy as she tries to free her seven brothers from the curse that has trapped them as swans for sixty years. In order to save them, she must risk stepping foot on the land of the Shadow court. When the Shadow King captures her, she learns things are not at all what they seem. Is he really as evil as they say? Or is there something bigger going on that is not yet understood?

Boy was this an adventure. As always, the imagery and world building was well done! I loved the main characters. The side characters we have seen throughout the entire series, and it was everything that they continued to be here until the very end. I love Tee Harlowe's writing style. These books balance serious issues and danger very well with magic and fantasy. It is both whimsical and thrilling. The spice was well done, and the scenes leave you wanting more. I absolutely love how the Wild Swan and Beauty and the Beast was represented in this book. The plot was so well done with the multiple POV. It was amazing how well the book came together at the end. It was a mystery trying to figure out how the third POV contributed to the overall story. The pacing was done so well for a slow burn. My only complaint is that I wish it was so much longer. I was not ready for this story and book to end! I definitely teared up at the ending because it was so bittersweet. The end of a series and an era of books I spent binge-reading through the past year. I will absolutely reread these books, especially this one, in the future.

If you enjoy fantasy re-tellings, romantasy, and any of the aforementioned tropes, I highly recommend this series to you. It is a series of interconnect standalones that all come together in this amazing final book. I cannot thank Tee Harlowe enough for writing all of these characters and this universe. These books are always a breath of fresh air. This is an HONEST review and all opinions in this are my own. I cannot wait to see what comes next from Tee!

[Sarah Metcalf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the final book in the Stolen Crowns series. I have loved all the books in this series and this is no exception! Beasts of Briar is a Beauty and the Beast retelling. Bellamy has run away from Leoni and Driscoll after leaving the Star Court. She is planning to use the lightning bolt to kill Spirit Shadow after she saves her brothers from the curse. Of course, Leoni and Driscoll catch up and they arrive at the island together. They are captured and taken to Kairoth, Spirit Shadow. Can Bellemy manage to break the curse on her family and kill Spirit Shadow to save the realm?
This book really brings the whole series together! Bellamy is a fiercely independent person to a fault. Always believing she needs to do things on her own, she doesn’t want to let anyone in. But between Driscoll and Kaitoth, her heart definitely begins to thaw. Even though she’s cooped up in the castle and has no reason to trust Kairoth, she believes he has good intentions for everything (even things that look really bad!). And Kairoth, well, Driscoll put it best when he dubbed him a shadow daddy! He’s the epitome of tall, dark and handsome (you know… shadows). But he’s definitely got more to him than meets the eye.
I absolutely adore Driscoll, he really makes this series! He’s been there from the beginning and is definitely a hero in this story! He goes between reluctant and full steam ahead and it's amusing to read his parts of the story! And he has had the most growth of all the characters throughout the series and deserves an HEA.
There are several POV's in this book and it really helped to understand the story with the past POV. It was easy to follow along with and then BAM, you are hit with surprises close to the end! I spent the whole book thinking one thig only to be surprised to find out I was wrong! And I loved how all the MC's from previous books came in to help. While this is a stand alone, I highly recommend reading the previous books to get the complete story and understanding of this book, esp. the ending! My only complaint is that this series is now over! (But I still have more to read from this author, so I'll let it go lol.)

[Cocobeans · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ New SHADOW DADDY ALERT 💜


📖✨ Beasts of Briar ✨
🧚🏻‍♀️Tee Harlowe
📚 Stolen Crown #5

Beasts of Briar is the final book in the interconnected standalone series - Stolen Crown, and what a bittersweet moment it is writing this review !

(You do not HAVE TO read the previous books , but it'll obviously give you a much MUCH better experience if you do ) .

Tropes -
🦢 Fairy tale retelling (Wild swan meets Beauty and the Beast)
🦢 Enemies-to-Lovers
🦢 Steamy Romantasy
🦢 Slow Burn
🦢 Shadow Daddyyyyy
🦢 Morally Grey MMC (new Book BF ofc !!)
🦢 Sassy Banter
🦢 Forced Proximity, only one Castle 🏰
🦢 Ancient Curse
🦢 Gods and Goddesses
🦢 DRISCOLL ( 🙂‍↕️!!)


I cant believe it's really over , that this was the last and final book of this incredible series I started last year which became my COZY COMFY GO-TO books for whenever I would feel sad or low or in a slump! I would just pick up one of these beauties and in no time I would be SWOONING over the steamy romances and laughing with Driscoll 💜

I loved everything about this book ! Both the main characters, the side characters, the world building, the slow burn Romance , the magic, the plot , the starting, the ending and everything in between!

I will definitely miss this world and all the characters in it ( Especially Driscoll and I am so glad he finally got his happy ending too!! 🥰)

Beasts of Briar was such a wonderful story, and the ending.. OMG it was so so beautiful, the way Tee wrapped everything up .. it was just PERFECT.. everything was UTTERLY PERFECT and I won't have it any other way .

Tee writes the BEST fairy tale retellings and I am in AWE of her writing !!
And even though this book marks the end of this series, I can't wait to see what new world and characters Tee brings to us .

Thank you sooo much Tee Harlowe for yet another incredible eARC.
We love for you and your writing so so much and hope you have the most amazing year ahead 💜

[Janene McClelland · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚Beasts of Briar by Tee Harlowe📚

Overall Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:🌶️🌶️

✨Tropes✨
✨Shadow Daddy
✨Strong FMC
✨Beauty and the Beast x Wild Swan
✨Forced Proximity
✨Gods x Humans (with Elemental Magic)
✨Curses
✨Identities Revealed
✨Interconnected Standalone
✨Epic Finale

✨Initial Thoughts✨
Oh. My. Gods. This book was incredible!! Easily my favorite out of the entire series- which is saying something because I loved each and every book in the series in their own way. But this book was the masterpiece that tied the entire series together and gave such a satisfying ending to this fantastic series.
Bellamy is such a strong FMC and to see the development she goes through to become a better version of herself is amazing. Kairoth, our MMC, is the shadow daddy of my dreams.

✨Pros✨
* This is a Beauty and the Beast with a sprinkling of the Wild Swan retelling - it’s a refreshingly unique take on Beauty and the Beast and it’s so much fun to read.
* Ancient curses and hidden identities- there were some twists and turns I could kind of predict, but there were some shocking moments that I audibly gasped.
* The romance between Bellamy and Kairoth is top notch. I loved seeing the development of their relationship which leads to incredible character development for both of them.
* Kairoth really is a shadow daddy like Driscoll says.
* Enjoyable side characters. So many “old faces” are back for this last book in the series.
* Epic finale- of this book and of the series. The last 1/4 of this book is so wonderfully tense, but the last chapter is a beautiful and satisfying ending.
* Engaging story that I could not put down. I read this in one day.

✨Cons✨
* No notes. This was above and beyond my expectations and I loved every second.

Thank you to Tee Harlowe for the gifted copy and the opportunity to review this book.

[Amberreads.alot · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have thoroughly enjoyed Tee Harlowe's "Stolen Crowns" series, and "Beasts of Briar" acts as an excellent conclusion. With a touch of Beauty & the Beast, a bit of Wild Swans, the continuation of Peter Pan, and just a hint of Alice in Wonderland, Harlowe again demonstrates her ability to weave together different fairytales into enjoyable, and well-written, retellings.

"Beasts of Briar" follows Bellamy (introduced in the prior book) on her quest to end the curse that has turned her brothers into swans. Driscoll and Leoni (LOVE them) are along for the ride, though Bellamy certainly didn't invite them. All three end up the guests/prisoners of Kairoth, Spirit Shadow, whom they believe is trying to raise the other sleeping gods so all can wreak havoc on the world. Of course, all is not always what it seems.

Bellamy is an excellent FMC. She stands her ground and pushes forward, even when afraid. She is still searching for certain pieces of herself and it is lovely to watch her find them during this story. Kairoth is, as Driscoll so aptly points out, a very sexy Shadow Daddy. He is a gruff and grumpy (and okay, a little bit scary) outside with a loving inside. I thought he and Bellamy worked well together, and I didn't feel like this was an insta-lust/love story. There is some spicy spice, which I am normally here for. Here, though, the spice involves Kairoth's shadows (because of course!) which had been previously explained as the shadows that had belonged to his long-ago human family. And that just took me right out of the spicy scenes as it was all I could think about when Kairoth's shadows come into play.

Overall, this is a great book in an overall fabulous series. 4 stars. Thank you to the author for a complimentary ARC. These opinions are my own.

[Nikki's Dragon Den · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible and thrilling conclusion to the Stolen Crowns series! Bellemy is heading to the Shadow Court with her swan brothers to break their curse and to kill the spirit who destroyed her home, but the beasts she finds is no spirit and with Leoni and Driscol along for the ride it's no wonder this could be my favourite book of the series!

⚡️Shadow Daddy and Badass FMC
⚡️Wild Swans X Beauty and the beast retelling
⚡️Thrilling conclusion
⚡️Elemental Magic
⚡️Enemies to lovers
⚡️Millennias of history comes to light

Oh. My. GODS.... This book! It is everything that I needed it to be. I have been on this journey since the first day. I fell in love with every character, I laughed, I cried, I bit my nails and I enjoyed every page. But this book! I honestly didn't know if I wanted it to end or if I was trying to get there as fast as possible. But when I finally put it down i felt such a surreal sense of calm and completion.

Getting to that stage though was a freaking roller coaster. There was friendship and family, romance and some shadowy spice (🔥), twists and turns to make your head spin (so proud of myself for guessing some of them!), and packed with so much comedy and action that I felt like I lived a week within the day it took me to finish.

Everything that happened in the books before couldn't have been tied up more perfectly. It ended in a place I did not see coming after a certain chapter containing only 4 words that ripped my soul out through my tear ducts. And I wouldn't change a damn thing. I will definitely be recommending this series to anyone after a spicy romantasy filled with Disney-after-dark retellings and I will definitely be rereading this one again in the future.

A Standing Ovation for Tee Harlowe!

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! Tee, you've done it again with this one. I see you saved the best for last! This is the last book in the Stolen Crowns series so you will need to read the first four to get the full picture. Book 2, Ship of Shadows was previously my favorite in the series, but this book right here may have over thrown it.

Beast of Briar stars Bellamy, a girl with secrets of her own who's desperate to get to the dangerous Shadow Court to try to save her 7 brother's from a curse that has fallen upon them by their evil stepmother. Bellamy herself is unable to speak because of this curse. With her father nowhere in sight it is up to her to save them. The key to breaking the curse, poisonous briar that can only be found in the Shadow Court. There's just one problem... Kairoth, the shadow god that dwells there and steals peoples shadows trapping them to the exact sport their shadows were taken.

Will Bellamy and her tag along friends Leoni and Driscoll be able to break the curse? What life changing hidden secrets will they discover during their journey? Find out now!

This book wrapped the whole series up perfectly. I really enjoyed seeing some of the past characters returning in this book for a second. As always, Tee needs an award for best supporting character! I've never loved a character as I've loved Driscoll, the perpetual, hysterical, sidekick in all the books. He is so witty, and his banter is top notch. He will have you literally laughing out loud! The way he talks about Kairoth aka the shadow daddy had me in my grave!

If you love romantasy and these tropes..
Enemies to lovers, SHADOW DADDIES, all the banter, slow burn, one castle, forced proximity, ancient curse, fairytale retellings (Beauty and the Beast X Wild Swan), gods/goddesses this book is for you!

[Celeste Grayson Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beasts of Briar by Tee Harlowe marks the end of a journey for me. It was a wonderful journey not only through the world of Arathia but through my past. In Tee Harlowe's Stolen Crowns series, I relived my love for Disney and endings that are happily ever after.

Beasts of Briar is the final book in the Stolen Crown series and reads like Beauty and the Beast meets the Wild Swan. I think this was one of Tee's most creative reimaginings yet. The author does a fantastic job weaving characters, scenes, and feelings that are familiar from these tales with the unique mythology of Arathia. The result is a story that is unexpected, truly magical, and lots of fun.

The FMC, Bellamy, searches for a way to break the curse over her seven brothers. They were turned into swans over sixty years ago and she, who cannot speak until the curse is broken, must knit seven sweaters out of poisonous briars to free them. The briars grow in abundance at the castle of the dark and dangerous Spirit Shadow. Our MMC, Kairoth, catches Bellamy steaking what is his and makes her his "guest" in the castle. Bellamy and Kairoth's romance is perfect for fans of a good forced proximity with a shadow daddy trope.

In addition to the romance, I loved spending some time with characters in past Stolen Crown books again. Of course, we have our dynamic duo of Driscoll and Leoni, who are heroes throughout the series. We also see the princesses and queens of the realm reuniting in the final chapters of Beast of Briar. Harlowe pulled the magical threads of each realm together one last time in the final battle to save Arathia.

Congratulations to Tee Harlowe on the conclusion of a fantastic series!

[crookedly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S OVER! Beasts of Briar is the final installment of the interconnected standalones that make up the wonderful Stolen Crowns series. And what an incredible ending it is!

Bellamy is such a fierce FMC, at once headstrong and determined but distrusting of others and reluctant to open up. She is willing to sacrifice herself and put it all on the line for her loved ones, but she's hesitant to let anyone else into get very small circle. But everybody's favorites, Driscoll and Leoni, are not ones to be ignored or take 'no' for an answer, and they slowly make their way into Bellamy's heart - well, after initially forcing their way into her life.

And then there's Kairoth. We finally meet the shadowy that that's loomed over the series, and was there ever a chance he wouldn't end up being a character I'd love? A misunderstood shadow daddy? Come on. I loved the show unraveling of his backstory, and how we finally got to hear things from his perspective. Learning more about him through his interactions with Bellamy and his staff of pixies was such a great way to reveal Kairoth's true character and motivations.

And I will not spoil too much (more?) about your book, but the way Tee brought the overarching plot line with the gods and their weapons together and to an epic resolution in this final novel was masterful! I was truly hooked from the first word and had to pace myself so I could savor this one to the very end.

Thank you so much, Tee, for not only gifting me this ARC but for letting me be part of your ARC team for books 2-4 as well. I have loved every moment of Syolen Crowns, and my sadness at their ending only means a reread (or two) is in my future!

[Morgan Jacques · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes:
✨Beauty And The Beast X Wild Swans
✨Forced Proximity
✨Enemies To Lovers
✨Slow Burn

This was the most perfect ending to such an amazing series.

Bellamy was introduced to us in the fourth book, Wilds Of Wonder. I would recommend reading that book before you read this one so you are not confused.

Bellamy and her brothers were cursed 60 years ago. She can’t talk, and her brothers were turned into swans. Blaming the shadow king for them being cursed, she goes on a journey with her brothers to the shadow court to save her brothers and kill the shadow king.

Bellamy is so freaking independent and determined. Feeling like she was always a burden when she was a kid, she knew that she had to save her brothers because they were all she had left. And nothing was going to get in her way. To the point where she almost died doing what she needed to do to save them. If that’s not unconditional love for family, I don’t know what is.

I didn’t think I was going to like Kairoth aka the shadow king, but I was way wrong. I ended up loving him so much. It was love at first sight for him, and he has never felt that way about anyone. He was honest and transparent with Bellamy to the point where she realizes he has always been misunderstood. And I mean he’s a shadow daddy. And the shadow foreplay was just chefs kiss!

I am so freaking happy for Driscoll. I have loved him from the very first book and felt so bad for him because everyone around him was falling in love and he wasn’t. But he got his own happy ending in this book! I was literally jumping for joy.

I am so sad this series has come to an end and know for a fact that I will be rereading this series over and over again.

[Katarina Petzold · Rating 5 out of 5]

☆☆☆☆☆
"Beasts of Briar" is the breathtaking finale we've all been waiting for in @teeharlowe Stollen Crown series!

This exhilarating conclusion marks a masterclass in emotional depth and intricate storytelling, weaving together the fates of beloved characters in ways that will leave you breathless. 🌟

In this gripping installment, we follow Bellamy as she bravely ventures into the treacherous depths of the Shadow Court, accompanied by her companions, Driscoll and Lioni. Here, they encounter Kairoth or Spirit Shadow, how we know him , unveiling layers of their pasts and intertwining destinies.
Harlow's extraordinary character development immerses us in their complex relationships and personal struggles. 💕🖤

The tension and chemistry between Bellamy and Kairoth is electric! Their journey of self-discovery and redemption is one of the highlights of the story, beautifully portrayed through moments that are as dramatic as they are moving. Harlow crafts these interactions with such skill that you’ll find yourself rooting for their love story! 😍

Adding the mysterious third point of view heightens the intrigue. As secrets unfold, readers will find themselves questioning everything they thought they knew, leading to jaw-dropping twists that keep you guessing until the very end! 🤯

And can we talk about the writing? Tee Harlow’s prose is simply stunning—captivating and poignant, with moments that tug at your heartstrings. Chapter 70 is particularly heart-wrenching ( I may have had tears in my eyes😪), providing closure not just for Bellamy and Kairoth but for all the cherished characters we've grown to love throughout the series. The epic climax serves as a perfect send-off, wrapping up the overarching themes beautifully. The epilogue makes you forget the heartbreak of chapter 70.🫶

"Beasts of Briar" is a must-read that expertly ties together all the threads of the Stollen Crown series in a way that feels both satisfying and profound.
Tee's ability to blend fantasy with emotional depth makes this book—and the entire series—an unforgettable experience.

People, rejoice! This conclusion is everything we hoped for and more. 🥳📖

[she's in the RAEn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I was on the ARC team for this story. However, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

What a wonderful and beautiful ending to one of my favorite series! This was a very unique take on Beauty and the Beast (I definitely prefer it to most retellings (and even the original) of said fairytale).

Bellamy is such a strong and amazing FMC her bravery was definitely inspiring to read (and don't even get me started on how a line in her POV at the end of seventy (which I obvious won't say because of spoilers) made me feel!!!) and of course, her relationship with [Redacted] (idk if saying his name is a spoiler, so I won't) was enjoyable to watch develop, they actually become one of my fav couples in this series (which is saying something since all the couples have all been amazing! I would actually have to sit and think to rank them!)

I would definitely recommend reading at least Wilds of Wonder before this book, or you will be very confused! lol

I like how the whole series wrapped up nicely, I only have a question about teo characters that were introduced in Ship of Shadows, I really want to know if what I hope happened with them did!! I'm keeping that super vague, but it's pretty easy to figure out what I'm talking about lol

[Samantha Ness · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazingly epic finale to the Stolen Crowns series! I'm incredibly sad but feel so damn good with how it ended. This will be my new comfort read series. I loved every single character (and despised others), journeyed along each story, loved visiting all over Arathia, fell for basically every MMC and the absolute best side duo Driscoll & Leoni, laughed, cried, clutched my heart, shouted with each reveal and twist, and this book took all of that and my love for this series to a new level!

Bellamy had a major part in Wilds of Wonder so although this series is interconnected standalones, this particular book must be read after WOW because it gives so much backstory and insight into what happens in Beasts of Briar. The ending to this series was so utterly epic and I loved that we got to see all the characters of the past come together.

Bellamy is out to seek a cure for her cursed brothers, and has to cross paths with the foreboding, series-long villain from the Shadow Court. There's surprises at every turn, gods, magic, and everything and everyone isn't all that it seems.

This is an absolute must-read series!

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

“She could ruin everything. A part of me also thought she might be the answer to everything. Everything I needed. Everything this world needed.”

This was such a good conclusion to the Stolen Crowns series! I’ve loved my time with these books even though I haven’t gotten to the first two yet, I love interconnected standalones. This can be read on its own as well, although there are aspects that are better appreciated if you’ve read the others.

I loved the leads! Bellamy was a stubborn, feisty woman who cared so deeply for her loved ones, but at the expense of her own well-being. Her journey of learning to let others in was beautiful! And Kairoth was a spectacular “Shadow Daddy” as Driscoll dubbed him. Broody with a tortured past, but also so deeply caring and noble.

While this was mostly a slower paced book of Bellamy and Kairoth getting to slowly trust each other while Bellamy was figuring out how to break her brothers’ curse, it still had new developments at a good clip that kept me really interested, and the final battle was so exciting!

I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author!

Thanks to Tee for having me on the ARC team for the last few books!

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded to 4

The conclusion to the Stolen Crowns series. I enjoyed the entire round up of the universe in this 5th book. It was incredibly enjoyable and one of the first times I've been able to fall into a new world so easily as an adult.

I loved the blending of the fairytales. I really did enjoy all the FMCs/MMCs. I liked the interwoven storylines and getting to experience each kingdom. I think Tee Harlowe does best with writing from single POV just because she builds up tension best this way (Book #1, #2). But the alternating POV wasn't awful either.

My main hang up on all the books is that the smut...leaves much to be desired (literally, lol). It reads like a romance book from the 80s written by a male writer in the sense that it was a tell not show and also no one has heard of foreplay or tension. It did get progressively better from book #1, but as a book that was described as Disney fairytales + smut, I feel like leaving the smut out and turning it into Disney fairytales + heavy makeout sessions would have been better.

I'll definitely read more by Tee Harlowe though just because I like her spin on classic stories.

[Deborah Savoia-Pearl · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great finale to the Stolen Crowns saga. Beauty and the Beast plus the Wild Swans. Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairy tale and I have loved Wild Swans since I read another version years ago, so when I found out what this finale was a retelling of, I couldn't wait to read it, and Tee did not disappoint. Bellamy was a great FMC addition and her story was amazing. The unexpected twists we learn about her were perfect for the story. I started to have my suspicions about certain things throughout the story and loved having them confirmed.

Additionally, the continued dynamic duo of Leoni and Driscoll were the perfect comedic counterpart. And every heroine needs to have her sidekick(s) to help her navigate her tasks. Wesley, Jerome and Goji are perfect counterparts to Cogsworth, Lumiere and Mrs. Potts.

As for Spirit Shadow, what a great story! Learning about him, his past, and the past of the other Spirits and the origin of the elemental magics was enlightening. Again, this was a great ending to the saga.

[Catie M | SmuttyCocktails · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars 1.5/5 spice
I think I’m really going to miss this series and starting this book was so bittersweet. The entirety of this series is fun, magical and spicy and this book is no different. You get all the fun fairytale like moments, a bit of danger, spice and of course Driscoll. I think that’s what makes me the most sad is that I won’t get another Driscoll book. He is such a perfect side character and always makes these stories so fun. I loved the beauty and the beast aspects of this story. Being trapped in a castle with a shadow daddy, I mean sign me up. I love the way Tee described loneliness and struggling to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. This book definitely pulled at my heart but don’t worry much like Disney of course you will get a happy ending. This was a great wrap up to a series even if it made me sad that it’s over. If you love Disney fairytales but want them to be a bit spicer this is the series for you.

Tropes
Magical curse
Gods
Beauty and the beast
Slow burn
Forced proximity
HEA