What do you think?
Rate this book
The Christmas Chronicles
The Iced Path: A Hansel And Gretel Retelling
He has the power to grant her freedom, or to keep her trapped forever.
At the first sign of glimmering lights above the highest Haleston peak, the unsealing of the Iced Path inside the haunted forest begins. Upon entering the haunted forest, brave men and women are tested to win admittance into the enchanted village on the other side. However, those who enter are never seen again including Gretel Carol’s own father and brother.
As Gretel enters the competition she is tested to see if she has what it takes to win. When she meets a mysterious man within the woods, she assumes that he is part of a test, given by the forest in order to prove her worth. But after the mysterious man keeps showing up and she begins to become accustomed to his odd behavior, she wonders if he is really who he claims to the Guardian of the Forest. Or if he’s not at all what he seems, like so many other things inside the woods.
Cole has haunted the forest at the edge of Haleston for as long as he can remember. When he begins to haunt and tease a small, feisty woman, competing in this season's competition, he doesn't want her to win. Cole wants to keep her in the forest, so that he can be with her forever. She is the only person who has ever made him feel warm and alive. When Gretel starts to make him question his existence, the Haunted Forest, and the value of the competition, he asks questions he has never asked before; Who is he? How did he become the Guardian of the Forest? And why, just like the competitors, can’t he leave?
This is a Hansel and Gretel retelling, filled with eerie, snowy, winter woods; forgotten identities; spelled peppermint hot cocoa, winter kisses, Christmassy villages, persuading challenges; and a teasing, mysterious man who will stop at nothing to keep Gretel with him.
This book is a part of The Christmas Chronicles, a collection of festive novellas filled with clean romance, chilly weather, and cozy adventures.
At the first sign of glimmering lights above the highest Haleston peak, the unsealing of the Iced Path inside the haunted forest begins. Upon entering the haunted forest, brave men and women are tested to win admittance into the enchanted village on the other side. However, those who enter are never seen again including Gretel Carol’s own father and brother.
As Gretel enters the competition she is tested to see if she has what it takes to win. When she meets a mysterious man within the woods, she assumes that he is part of a test, given by the forest in order to prove her worth. But after the mysterious man keeps showing up and she begins to become accustomed to his odd behavior, she wonders if he is really who he claims to the Guardian of the Forest. Or if he’s not at all what he seems, like so many other things inside the woods.
Cole has haunted the forest at the edge of Haleston for as long as he can remember. When he begins to haunt and tease a small, feisty woman, competing in this season's competition, he doesn't want her to win. Cole wants to keep her in the forest, so that he can be with her forever. She is the only person who has ever made him feel warm and alive. When Gretel starts to make him question his existence, the Haunted Forest, and the value of the competition, he asks questions he has never asked before; Who is he? How did he become the Guardian of the Forest? And why, just like the competitors, can’t he leave?
This is a Hansel and Gretel retelling, filled with eerie, snowy, winter woods; forgotten identities; spelled peppermint hot cocoa, winter kisses, Christmassy villages, persuading challenges; and a teasing, mysterious man who will stop at nothing to keep Gretel with him.
This book is a part of The Christmas Chronicles, a collection of festive novellas filled with clean romance, chilly weather, and cozy adventures.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2024
18 people are currently reading
209 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 11, 2025
Such a cute, unique retelling of Hansel and Gretel. Eshbaugh always draws me into the story right away! I love these books and this world of characters! ❤️ 5🌟
November 14, 2024
I've read this author's books before and especially the series this novel is set in ... and this book does not go. The dialogue is stilted and feels fake, the characters are flat and generally the plot just seems like a hot mess. It's almost like this was written by some other person or even AI.
November 9, 2024
This is Kayla’s BEST novella yet and may just be up there for one of the best books in her fairytale retelling series, period. It was so different from the other books in the Cursed Kingdom books, and so much darker. Darker than I expected because it was so unlike the normal vibe from her books!
This book takes place in Haleston, at a village that borders a haunted forest. Once a year, when the lights appear in the sky, the forest is unsealed people wanting to prove their worth are allowed to enter. No one actually knows what happens in the haunted forest, just that people who go in never are seen again. People try their luck because of the promise of the chance to live in the rumored enchanted village that lies on the other side of the forest, but since no one who enters is ever seen again, no one knows for sure if that is true. Gretel’s father was convinced the people who went through the haunted wood found the enchanted village and were too happy to return (faulty logic imo because why wouldn’t they want to come back for their family and loved ones and bring them back to be happy with them too instead of just leaving them forever?) and her and her brother entered the forest, never to be seen again. Which is why Gretel enters the forest, seeking her lost family.
This was so much darker than Kayla’s usual and I loved it. I wasn’t expecting spooky Christmas vibes with the Christmas chronicles so I this was such a nice surprise! Dangerous trials, a mysterious crumbling castle, terrifying villains trying to entrap your soul in the forest forever, a deceptively happy village made of candy, you get it all! Cole is also so different from the other male characters in Kayla’s books and has the most hilarious personality (my favorite Cole quote is “When you hit me with that shovel, there was such passion in your eyes”) and his story opens things up for future characters in future books, even hinting at a new mystery.
Anyone who has read all of the other Cursed Kingdom books CANNOT skip this one. Though it is an offset from the main series and technically part of another collaboration series, this novella introduces characters and hints towards scenarios that will surely come up in future books, and even expands on the map of Terra. I suppose you could skip it, but you’d be missing out on some great hints of what could be coming up in future books! This is the best novella yet, and I hope we see these characters make a cameo in future books.
This book takes place in Haleston, at a village that borders a haunted forest. Once a year, when the lights appear in the sky, the forest is unsealed people wanting to prove their worth are allowed to enter. No one actually knows what happens in the haunted forest, just that people who go in never are seen again. People try their luck because of the promise of the chance to live in the rumored enchanted village that lies on the other side of the forest, but since no one who enters is ever seen again, no one knows for sure if that is true. Gretel’s father was convinced the people who went through the haunted wood found the enchanted village and were too happy to return (faulty logic imo because why wouldn’t they want to come back for their family and loved ones and bring them back to be happy with them too instead of just leaving them forever?) and her and her brother entered the forest, never to be seen again. Which is why Gretel enters the forest, seeking her lost family.
This was so much darker than Kayla’s usual and I loved it. I wasn’t expecting spooky Christmas vibes with the Christmas chronicles so I this was such a nice surprise! Dangerous trials, a mysterious crumbling castle, terrifying villains trying to entrap your soul in the forest forever, a deceptively happy village made of candy, you get it all! Cole is also so different from the other male characters in Kayla’s books and has the most hilarious personality (my favorite Cole quote is “When you hit me with that shovel, there was such passion in your eyes”) and his story opens things up for future characters in future books, even hinting at a new mystery.
Anyone who has read all of the other Cursed Kingdom books CANNOT skip this one. Though it is an offset from the main series and technically part of another collaboration series, this novella introduces characters and hints towards scenarios that will surely come up in future books, and even expands on the map of Terra. I suppose you could skip it, but you’d be missing out on some great hints of what could be coming up in future books! This is the best novella yet, and I hope we see these characters make a cameo in future books.
December 20, 2024
10 pts to Gryffindor! 😂❤️
That was everything I could have asked for! *happy sigh* it was wonderful. Cole is a delightful flirt and had me laughing and swooning. 😂 It’s such an interesting world I love it! There are definitely some people I’d like to have some words with…😈 The FMC is so feisty and good hearted. I loved it!!
💕Hansel and Gretel retelling
💕Clean Sweet Romance
💕A Haunted Forest
💕Delightful MMC
💕Little Fierce FMC
💕A little mystery
💕The Candy Village 😂
No language or graphic violence
Intimacy 1
That was everything I could have asked for! *happy sigh* it was wonderful. Cole is a delightful flirt and had me laughing and swooning. 😂 It’s such an interesting world I love it! There are definitely some people I’d like to have some words with…😈 The FMC is so feisty and good hearted. I loved it!!
💕Hansel and Gretel retelling
💕Clean Sweet Romance
💕A Haunted Forest
💕Delightful MMC
💕Little Fierce FMC
💕A little mystery
💕The Candy Village 😂
No language or graphic violence
Intimacy 1
December 30, 2024
Mixing the Hansel and Gretel story with a game-like, magical competition was such a fun idea! The ending was so beautiful and cozy and reminiscent of the Narnia books.
And the chemistry and banter in this book was off the charts! Gretel is so feisty and adorable (don't let her hear me calling her that!) and I loved that there was just a slight hint of "dangerous bad boy" to Cole that didn't overtake the very human, very noble love story that this is.
And the chemistry and banter in this book was off the charts! Gretel is so feisty and adorable (don't let her hear me calling her that!) and I loved that there was just a slight hint of "dangerous bad boy" to Cole that didn't overtake the very human, very noble love story that this is.
December 24, 2025
2.5 stars, rounded up for the gorgeous cover that perfectly matches the description of the book.
This series has been very mediocre for me. I think I liked this one best of the 3 I’ve read. I didn’t like Cole at all. He came on way too strong for my liking. Gretel was a better character but there was still some instalove that I wasn’t fond of.
This one definitely did the best retelling the fairy tale.
This series has been very mediocre for me. I think I liked this one best of the 3 I’ve read. I didn’t like Cole at all. He came on way too strong for my liking. Gretel was a better character but there was still some instalove that I wasn’t fond of.
This one definitely did the best retelling the fairy tale.
November 11, 2024
❄️MY REVIEW:❄️
Yet another favorite of mine in the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series—but then again, have any of them ever not been five star quality? Not so far!🥳
The author knocks it out of the park again with her new book—The Iced Path. Her writing style is captivating and enchantingly unique in comparison to most authors, both in its whimsical nature and its chemistry of igniting sparks between our wittingly charming male MC and our strong, fierce female MC!😉✨
I will start with this—I am NOT a fan of Hansel and Gretel whatsoever. It’s one of the creepiest fairytales and stories of nightmares I’ve ever known. But this ISN’T LIKE THAT AT ALL.😮💨
Okay, it’s slightly like that?😅
This time Kayla throws her hand at a bit of eeriness and makes us question who and what is real, spelled, tests, or able to be trusted. Yet the tale still sparkles with her detailed descriptions and engaging characters, romance, deep connections, and yes—a Happily Ever After.🥹🤞
(But that’s all I’m saying as I don’t want to spoil!)
I love how wintry, and also Christmassy the book is, but yet, not so much to where you feel it’s a “seasonal read” or “hallmark repeat” story. So I feel it can be enjoyed even by those who aren’t big on holiday books.🥰
Warning: The Iced Path will make you hungry and probably even droll a little.🤤
I LOVED this read so much! It’ll take you on a rollercoaster ride of your emotions and having you really connecting with and feeling for the characters.
If you love strong female leads, handsome and charming male MCs, wintry settings, high stakes competitions and adventure, and fairytale retellings-this one is for you!😊
It can be read as a standalone, part of The Christmas Chronicles, or as a novella in The Cursed Kingdom Chronicles.
(It’s especially beneficial to The Cursed Kingdom Chronicles. Reading in order of release dates, it’s placed between Sea’s Secret and Moonlit Wings).
Overall,
I rate this one a GLOWING:
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 (5/5) STARS!
Yet another favorite of mine in the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series—but then again, have any of them ever not been five star quality? Not so far!🥳
The author knocks it out of the park again with her new book—The Iced Path. Her writing style is captivating and enchantingly unique in comparison to most authors, both in its whimsical nature and its chemistry of igniting sparks between our wittingly charming male MC and our strong, fierce female MC!😉✨
I will start with this—I am NOT a fan of Hansel and Gretel whatsoever. It’s one of the creepiest fairytales and stories of nightmares I’ve ever known. But this ISN’T LIKE THAT AT ALL.😮💨
Okay, it’s slightly like that?😅
This time Kayla throws her hand at a bit of eeriness and makes us question who and what is real, spelled, tests, or able to be trusted. Yet the tale still sparkles with her detailed descriptions and engaging characters, romance, deep connections, and yes—a Happily Ever After.🥹🤞
(But that’s all I’m saying as I don’t want to spoil!)
I love how wintry, and also Christmassy the book is, but yet, not so much to where you feel it’s a “seasonal read” or “hallmark repeat” story. So I feel it can be enjoyed even by those who aren’t big on holiday books.🥰
Warning: The Iced Path will make you hungry and probably even droll a little.🤤
I LOVED this read so much! It’ll take you on a rollercoaster ride of your emotions and having you really connecting with and feeling for the characters.
If you love strong female leads, handsome and charming male MCs, wintry settings, high stakes competitions and adventure, and fairytale retellings-this one is for you!😊
It can be read as a standalone, part of The Christmas Chronicles, or as a novella in The Cursed Kingdom Chronicles.
(It’s especially beneficial to The Cursed Kingdom Chronicles. Reading in order of release dates, it’s placed between Sea’s Secret and Moonlit Wings).
Overall,
I rate this one a GLOWING:
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 (5/5) STARS!
November 7, 2024
Another magical addition to the Christmas Chronicles set in the world of the Cursed Kingdoms! I have loved every one of her books and this one is no exception.
Gretel had so much spunk! I admired her courage as she ventured into the forest. It was not necessarily what she had wanted, but she was determined. She had a kindness and generosity that guided her actions. Cole was so fun! I loved his playfulness, especially with Gretel. He was intrigued by her and even though there was some teasing, they found an friend in the other. I was so invested in his story and I loved seeing it slowly being revealed.
The story was so interesting and I loved the fairytale inspirations that came through. Both Gretel and Cole discovered surprises and were stronger for it. There definitely was a holiday feel and I am ready for it! As an avid reader of the Cursed Kingdom series, I loved being in the world again and getting to see the connections. There are a few cameos and references that I really enjoyed! Overall, this was a lovely fairytale inspired holiday romance, with magic and only kissing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Gretel had so much spunk! I admired her courage as she ventured into the forest. It was not necessarily what she had wanted, but she was determined. She had a kindness and generosity that guided her actions. Cole was so fun! I loved his playfulness, especially with Gretel. He was intrigued by her and even though there was some teasing, they found an friend in the other. I was so invested in his story and I loved seeing it slowly being revealed.
The story was so interesting and I loved the fairytale inspirations that came through. Both Gretel and Cole discovered surprises and were stronger for it. There definitely was a holiday feel and I am ready for it! As an avid reader of the Cursed Kingdom series, I loved being in the world again and getting to see the connections. There are a few cameos and references that I really enjoyed! Overall, this was a lovely fairytale inspired holiday romance, with magic and only kissing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
December 28, 2024
This was such a an adorable Christmasy story!! It's fast paced, but filled with so much goodness!! The world building is great, it ties into her other books without feeling like your missing something if you've never read them. You can imagine the world clearly, it's beautiful, enchanted, and of course wintery! The characters are amazing as well! The FMC, Gretel/Rosette, is feisty and stubborn, but also kind and caring. The MMC, Cole, is cursed, annoying(to the FMC anyways), but hilarious and loveable. The banter in this is so cute, and I loved every second of their interactions together, it's just perfect. It is dual POV which I love and I wanted to highlight almost everything in Coles POV. Their is a touch of mystery and action, but mostly it's just a wholesome cute little read that's perfect for the Christmas season or anytime really!! The Romance and relationships is really well done for a novella, and you can feel their connection and they are just so sweet together! He even gives her nicknames🤭🤭
10/10 recommend!!!
Content: No-spice/kisses only, no strong language
10/10 recommend!!!
Content: No-spice/kisses only, no strong language
November 12, 2024
Reader’s Notes:
– this is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
– this is in the same world as Kayla Eshbaugh’s Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series, but they don’t need to be read to enjoy this story
– this is told from Gretel & Cole’s points of view
-it is mentioned that a character’s parent passed from illness when the character was young
Review:
I almost read this in one sitting (darn responsibilities for not letting that happen 😅)! I loved Cole & Gretel’s story so much! I loved how captivated Cole was by Gretel and how he couldn’t seem to stop teasing her or helping her. I loved Gretel’s kind heart and her determination to find her family members that had gone onto the path before her. I enjoyed the mystery that was Cole’s situation & the forest itself. I also enjoyed seeing the change in Cole upon meeting Gretel (compared to past contestants).
I am excited to find out more about some of the characters mentioned that we didn’t get a chance to meet in this book & to see if any make appearances in any of Kayla’s future releases!
Summary:
Gretel made a promise and she intends to keep it, even if it means entering the haunted forest that no one has ever come back from. The forest is said to test those who enter for worthiness to gain entry to the famed enchanted village at the end of the Iced Path. And Gretel is determined to do everything in her power to make it through to find her father and brother. When she meets a mysterious man, she assumes that he is yet another one of the tests that are being sent her way. But with his constant teasing of her and his claim to being the forest’s guardian, Gretel begins to wonder if maybe there is more to him than meets the eye…
Cole has been the guardian of the haunted forest for as long as he can remember. He finds pride in his task of weeding out the humans to find those most worthy to enter the enchanted village. He hasn’t felt the need to get close to any of them except to find personal information to use in their hauntings. Until he spots a young woman glaring into the forest the day before the Iced Path leading into his forest is to open. Her stubbornness and sharp tongue makes him want to keep her within the confines of his forest as he gets to know her better during the competition. And oddly enough, Cole finds himself feeling things he’s never felt before, like the warmth of her touch despite his constant & comfortable state of coldness…
– this is part of a series, but meant to be read as a stand-alone
– this is in the same world as Kayla Eshbaugh’s Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series, but they don’t need to be read to enjoy this story
– this is told from Gretel & Cole’s points of view
-it is mentioned that a character’s parent passed from illness when the character was young
Review:
I almost read this in one sitting (darn responsibilities for not letting that happen 😅)! I loved Cole & Gretel’s story so much! I loved how captivated Cole was by Gretel and how he couldn’t seem to stop teasing her or helping her. I loved Gretel’s kind heart and her determination to find her family members that had gone onto the path before her. I enjoyed the mystery that was Cole’s situation & the forest itself. I also enjoyed seeing the change in Cole upon meeting Gretel (compared to past contestants).
I am excited to find out more about some of the characters mentioned that we didn’t get a chance to meet in this book & to see if any make appearances in any of Kayla’s future releases!
Summary:
Gretel made a promise and she intends to keep it, even if it means entering the haunted forest that no one has ever come back from. The forest is said to test those who enter for worthiness to gain entry to the famed enchanted village at the end of the Iced Path. And Gretel is determined to do everything in her power to make it through to find her father and brother. When she meets a mysterious man, she assumes that he is yet another one of the tests that are being sent her way. But with his constant teasing of her and his claim to being the forest’s guardian, Gretel begins to wonder if maybe there is more to him than meets the eye…
Cole has been the guardian of the haunted forest for as long as he can remember. He finds pride in his task of weeding out the humans to find those most worthy to enter the enchanted village. He hasn’t felt the need to get close to any of them except to find personal information to use in their hauntings. Until he spots a young woman glaring into the forest the day before the Iced Path leading into his forest is to open. Her stubbornness and sharp tongue makes him want to keep her within the confines of his forest as he gets to know her better during the competition. And oddly enough, Cole finds himself feeling things he’s never felt before, like the warmth of her touch despite his constant & comfortable state of coldness…
November 12, 2024
While I received an ARC of The Iced Path, the review below is my honest opinion.
I haven't read any of Kayla Eshbaugh's books before but I LOVED The Iced Path!! This book is part of the Christmas Chronicles series and is also set in the same world as the author's Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series. However, it can be read as a stand alone.
I loved Gretel the female MC. Her spunk and determination are very relatable. Because of a promise she made to her father and brother she enters the haunted forest that is meant to test people to determine if they are worthy of living in the famed enchanted village. When Gretel meets Cole, she figures that he is simply another test from the forest. Little does she know that he is actually the guardian of the forest.
Cole, the male MC, has been tasked with being the guardian of the haunted forest for as long as he can recall. He finds his work of weeding out the humans that are worthy of entering the enchanted village important and takes pride in helping to keep the village safe from those deemed unworthy. When he spots Gretel, he is immediately intrigued by the fiery and spunky young woman. He's never had someone capture his attention like Gretel has. Despite Cole's attempts to scare her, Gretel enters the forest anyway because of the promise she had made to her brother and father. Cole's world becomes completely altered as he finds himself wanting to not only learn more about Gretel, but to help her find her family. Not only that, but Gretel soon has Cole questioning everything he thought he knew about himself.
Overall, I highly recommend reading The Iced Path! It had me captivated from the very first page! While it is a little on the darker side, so it might be a bit much for younger readers, it's a clean and very enjoyable Christmas read. There are many twists and turns to this book, that are sure to keep you on edge and hold your interest. I will definitely be reading more books by Kayla Eshbaugh in the future!
I haven't read any of Kayla Eshbaugh's books before but I LOVED The Iced Path!! This book is part of the Christmas Chronicles series and is also set in the same world as the author's Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series. However, it can be read as a stand alone.
I loved Gretel the female MC. Her spunk and determination are very relatable. Because of a promise she made to her father and brother she enters the haunted forest that is meant to test people to determine if they are worthy of living in the famed enchanted village. When Gretel meets Cole, she figures that he is simply another test from the forest. Little does she know that he is actually the guardian of the forest.
Cole, the male MC, has been tasked with being the guardian of the haunted forest for as long as he can recall. He finds his work of weeding out the humans that are worthy of entering the enchanted village important and takes pride in helping to keep the village safe from those deemed unworthy. When he spots Gretel, he is immediately intrigued by the fiery and spunky young woman. He's never had someone capture his attention like Gretel has. Despite Cole's attempts to scare her, Gretel enters the forest anyway because of the promise she had made to her brother and father. Cole's world becomes completely altered as he finds himself wanting to not only learn more about Gretel, but to help her find her family. Not only that, but Gretel soon has Cole questioning everything he thought he knew about himself.
Overall, I highly recommend reading The Iced Path! It had me captivated from the very first page! While it is a little on the darker side, so it might be a bit much for younger readers, it's a clean and very enjoyable Christmas read. There are many twists and turns to this book, that are sure to keep you on edge and hold your interest. I will definitely be reading more books by Kayla Eshbaugh in the future!
February 19, 2025
Interesting, yet Annoying
2.5* This story had an interesting premise and twist for Hansel and Gretel. I liked the incorporation of chestnuts and the candy canes. The setting felt very solstice/Christmas like, while also ominous and mysterious. However, the characters could be pretty annoying. Gretel was often obnoxious and at one point threw an actual tantrum. For someone overly concerned with her small physical stature and how others viewed her as young, she didn't really try to be mature. As for Cole, he had no respect for personal boundaries, physical or verbal, which leaned more off putting than romantic to me. For example, he kept smelling her and dismissing her chosen name.
In terms of romance, this story very much had the bickering couple. Some readers might find it cute, but I didn't. I did like that they interacted a lot and got to know each other before declaring feelings though - that's not exactly a staple of this genre. The attraction and physicality between characters were more frequent and overt here than in other clean retellings, which surprised me a bit. I actually liked that the book didn't pretend those things didn't exist; I just wish some of those interactions were less romcom.
The ending wasn't very satisfying in terms of plot resolution (there is a HEA).
2.5* This story had an interesting premise and twist for Hansel and Gretel. I liked the incorporation of chestnuts and the candy canes. The setting felt very solstice/Christmas like, while also ominous and mysterious. However, the characters could be pretty annoying. Gretel was often obnoxious and at one point threw an actual tantrum. For someone overly concerned with her small physical stature and how others viewed her as young, she didn't really try to be mature. As for Cole, he had no respect for personal boundaries, physical or verbal, which leaned more off putting than romantic to me. For example, he kept smelling her and dismissing her chosen name.
In terms of romance, this story very much had the bickering couple. Some readers might find it cute, but I didn't. I did like that they interacted a lot and got to know each other before declaring feelings though - that's not exactly a staple of this genre. The attraction and physicality between characters were more frequent and overt here than in other clean retellings, which surprised me a bit. I actually liked that the book didn't pretend those things didn't exist; I just wish some of those interactions were less romcom.
The ending wasn't very satisfying in terms of plot resolution (there is a HEA).
December 22, 2025
This one is definitely a 4.5-star novella. Probably my favorite of the novellas so far (and I only have one left to read).
I absolutely love this series! I am a huge fan of fairy tale retellings, and this series. It is truly unique, and the whole series are interconnected standalones. Out of the novellas, I would say this one can be read as a standalone. Yes, it would be better if you read them in order, but this is pretty separate from the rest of the series, so you shouldn't miss anything. That being said, this couple is mentioned at the end of Moonlight Wings (Book 6 of the main series), so maybe read that one after this, but you should be fine. The world-building for this series is amazing, and I loved the plot twist at the end.
This series is about the aftereffects of a human rebellion against the gods that ruled and protected them. The kingdoms that rebelled were cursed, while the ones that sided with the gods weren't. This story follows generations after the rebellion, where the heirs to the kingdoms are trying to reunite the kingdoms and break their curses. I was wary at first because I hadn't read any Hansel and Gretel Retellings that turned into romances. However, I do like the way this story took the original story as inspiration and made it into something new. I hated some characters and was rooting for others. Heck, there was a moment I was screaming and gasping at the book and plot twist, waiting for certain things to happen. I still don't like how some of the characters were instantly forgiven at the end, but I can't wait to see how their story continues.
I absolutely love this series! I am a huge fan of fairy tale retellings, and this series. It is truly unique, and the whole series are interconnected standalones. Out of the novellas, I would say this one can be read as a standalone. Yes, it would be better if you read them in order, but this is pretty separate from the rest of the series, so you shouldn't miss anything. That being said, this couple is mentioned at the end of Moonlight Wings (Book 6 of the main series), so maybe read that one after this, but you should be fine. The world-building for this series is amazing, and I loved the plot twist at the end.
This series is about the aftereffects of a human rebellion against the gods that ruled and protected them. The kingdoms that rebelled were cursed, while the ones that sided with the gods weren't. This story follows generations after the rebellion, where the heirs to the kingdoms are trying to reunite the kingdoms and break their curses. I was wary at first because I hadn't read any Hansel and Gretel Retellings that turned into romances. However, I do like the way this story took the original story as inspiration and made it into something new. I hated some characters and was rooting for others. Heck, there was a moment I was screaming and gasping at the book and plot twist, waiting for certain things to happen. I still don't like how some of the characters were instantly forgiven at the end, but I can't wait to see how their story continues.
November 10, 2024
A spooky retelling of Hansel and Gretel.
This was a delight. I love stories where the hero is a shameless flirt and to see how Gretel reacted to Cole's chaotic energy was hilarious. I also appreciated the nods to the original Hansel and Gretel fairy tale and how they were re-worked to fit within the context of the characters.
Gretel was a wonderful breath of fresh air, so spunky and constantly on guard to prove that just because she may be relatively petite it doesn't mean she's helpless. I admire her ability to stand up for herself and what she believes to be right (which is something I sometimes struggle with) but her temper can sometimes get away from her. On the flip side, there's also a great kindness within her to help others - even complete strangers or infuriating yet handsome spirits.
Cole was such fun with his love of mischief and pressing people's buttons. But underneath that is a broken soul with a tragic past who can't remember who he is. It was beautiful seeing Gretel be such a support for Cole as he works to uncover his own past.
I loved the Christmassy aesthetic and feel to this story whilst balancing it against the more creepy and mysterious vibe of the plot. One of my favourite parts of this novella was learning more about the history of the kingdoms and what happened in the lead up to the great war. It was also intriguing to see some plot threads woven in to set up future books in the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series. I'm really looking forward to seeing them play out.
This was a delight. I love stories where the hero is a shameless flirt and to see how Gretel reacted to Cole's chaotic energy was hilarious. I also appreciated the nods to the original Hansel and Gretel fairy tale and how they were re-worked to fit within the context of the characters.
Gretel was a wonderful breath of fresh air, so spunky and constantly on guard to prove that just because she may be relatively petite it doesn't mean she's helpless. I admire her ability to stand up for herself and what she believes to be right (which is something I sometimes struggle with) but her temper can sometimes get away from her. On the flip side, there's also a great kindness within her to help others - even complete strangers or infuriating yet handsome spirits.
Cole was such fun with his love of mischief and pressing people's buttons. But underneath that is a broken soul with a tragic past who can't remember who he is. It was beautiful seeing Gretel be such a support for Cole as he works to uncover his own past.
I loved the Christmassy aesthetic and feel to this story whilst balancing it against the more creepy and mysterious vibe of the plot. One of my favourite parts of this novella was learning more about the history of the kingdoms and what happened in the lead up to the great war. It was also intriguing to see some plot threads woven in to set up future books in the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles series. I'm really looking forward to seeing them play out.
November 7, 2024
This was a sweet and clean Christmas novella with an original plotline and a cute, unusual romance between a human and the guardian of the forest who is supposed to be haunting her and the other contestants on the Iced Path, but keeps getting distracted from his duties because he’s enamoured with her beauty and feisty personality (Gretel is tiny but she makes up for it with spirit!)
I enjoyed the pacing of this book and thought it was well told, with many imaginative elements such as a village made entirely of yumminess and a wicked lady who seems to be made of plants. The nods to the original tale of Hansel and Gretel were clear while still being an entirely unique story in its own right and I loved getting to know all of the characters, especially Cole, who was like my dream man! He can haunt me any day of the week!
The world building was great and although it was set in the same world as Kayla Eshbaugh’s Cursed Kingdoms series (and labelled as a prequel to said series) it can easily be read as a standalone without any need for context from the other books. However, it serves as a great introduction to Kayla's style of writing and the rest of the books in that series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this inventive story and would recommend it with 5 candycanes and a cup of enchanted peppermint hot chocolate.
I enjoyed the pacing of this book and thought it was well told, with many imaginative elements such as a village made entirely of yumminess and a wicked lady who seems to be made of plants. The nods to the original tale of Hansel and Gretel were clear while still being an entirely unique story in its own right and I loved getting to know all of the characters, especially Cole, who was like my dream man! He can haunt me any day of the week!
The world building was great and although it was set in the same world as Kayla Eshbaugh’s Cursed Kingdoms series (and labelled as a prequel to said series) it can easily be read as a standalone without any need for context from the other books. However, it serves as a great introduction to Kayla's style of writing and the rest of the books in that series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this inventive story and would recommend it with 5 candycanes and a cup of enchanted peppermint hot chocolate.
November 14, 2024
This was my first book by Kayla Eshbaugh, but it most definitely will not be my last! This is such a fun and sweet twist on the classic tale of Hansel and Gretel with hints of a Christmas Carol and Sleeping Beauty. While this has connections to her series The Cursed Kingdom Chronicles, it is a stand alone. I haven’t read any of this series yet, but thoroughly enjoyed this book. Adding the rest to my TBR!
The characters are so cute and endearing. Gretel with her spunk, bravery, and determination to get back to her brother and father will have you cheering her on and leave you worrying if she will make it. Cole is funny, flirty, witty, and a mystery to be solved. Hansel is a typical brother who loves to annoy and gag over his sister and made me giggle.
The world building was intriguing and beautifully done. A town with rumors and a race once a year to make it to the “Enchanted Village”, a haunted forest set to test those who dare, a hidden and crumbling castle full of secrets and a mysterious past.
The plot was intriguing, and kept me on my toes. I didn’t want it to end, but had to find out how it turned out for Gretel. I can’t wait to see how this ties into the series and any further stories in the future!
Overall, wonderful Christmas time read! Perfect for readers of any age. This will be a fun one to read to my son.
Spice: none
Strong Language: none
Violence: none
The characters are so cute and endearing. Gretel with her spunk, bravery, and determination to get back to her brother and father will have you cheering her on and leave you worrying if she will make it. Cole is funny, flirty, witty, and a mystery to be solved. Hansel is a typical brother who loves to annoy and gag over his sister and made me giggle.
The world building was intriguing and beautifully done. A town with rumors and a race once a year to make it to the “Enchanted Village”, a haunted forest set to test those who dare, a hidden and crumbling castle full of secrets and a mysterious past.
The plot was intriguing, and kept me on my toes. I didn’t want it to end, but had to find out how it turned out for Gretel. I can’t wait to see how this ties into the series and any further stories in the future!
Overall, wonderful Christmas time read! Perfect for readers of any age. This will be a fun one to read to my son.
Spice: none
Strong Language: none
Violence: none
December 11, 2024
This story reminded me of Sleeping Beauty mixed with Hansel and Gretel!!!!
I 💜LOVE Gretel's real name, because it suits her so much better. I also 💜LOVE that they both have a different name then what they are called at first. They make such a good pair. With Gretel's stubbornness and Cole's determination they make a funny pair. I 💜LOVED their banter and it was so swoony at times. I know the author mentioned how A Christmas Carol was thrown into it a bit and I can see that with poor Cole's situation.
I did notice a lot of Hansel and Gretel hints like; candy, candy houses, not eating something, trail of chestnuts (instead of breadcrumbs), and an wicked power hungry person.
But for some reason this gave me some Sleeping Beauty vibes too, but I can't spoil anything even though I want to.
If you hate Hansel and Gretel like I do you will think differently with this book. I am more than glad I gave it a chance, because all the twists and turns keeps you wanting to know more. I Very Highly Recommend this tale
I 💜LOVE Gretel's real name, because it suits her so much better. I also 💜LOVE that they both have a different name then what they are called at first. They make such a good pair. With Gretel's stubbornness and Cole's determination they make a funny pair. I 💜LOVED their banter and it was so swoony at times. I know the author mentioned how A Christmas Carol was thrown into it a bit and I can see that with poor Cole's situation.
I did notice a lot of Hansel and Gretel hints like; candy, candy houses, not eating something, trail of chestnuts (instead of breadcrumbs), and an wicked power hungry person.
But for some reason this gave me some Sleeping Beauty vibes too, but I can't spoil anything even though I want to.
If you hate Hansel and Gretel like I do you will think differently with this book. I am more than glad I gave it a chance, because all the twists and turns keeps you wanting to know more. I Very Highly Recommend this tale
November 13, 2024
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This is book 5 in the The Christmas Chronicles Series, a multi author standalone festive novellas series. The Iced Path is told through Gretel and Cole's pov and is a clean and sweet Hansel and Gretel retelling.
From the start, I was invested in Gretel's quest to prove herself and be reunited with her family. She was determined and feisty, which made her interactions with Cole that much more fun to read. As the Guardian of the Forest, he took pride in his duty of testing those who entered the forest. He had a mischievous nature and enjoyed getting a reaction from Gretel. I liked seeing how he would find ways to tease her while admiring her strength. As they got closer, I also liked how she challenged him to question his own situation. Their romance was a clean one consisting of kisses, that didn't get too heated, and no foul language was used. Aside from the romance, I enjoyed Gretel and Cole's individual paths to discover truths. Though this is a novella, the story felt complete so this is a great book to read especially during the holiday season.
From the start, I was invested in Gretel's quest to prove herself and be reunited with her family. She was determined and feisty, which made her interactions with Cole that much more fun to read. As the Guardian of the Forest, he took pride in his duty of testing those who entered the forest. He had a mischievous nature and enjoyed getting a reaction from Gretel. I liked seeing how he would find ways to tease her while admiring her strength. As they got closer, I also liked how she challenged him to question his own situation. Their romance was a clean one consisting of kisses, that didn't get too heated, and no foul language was used. Aside from the romance, I enjoyed Gretel and Cole's individual paths to discover truths. Though this is a novella, the story felt complete so this is a great book to read especially during the holiday season.
November 12, 2024
The Iced Path was a fantastic winter retelling of Hansel and Gretel! I could not put this novella down! The plot was intriguing and quickly pulled me in. There were many unique twists and turns throughout the story. All the nods to Christmas fit in so well with this fairytale retelling! As well, the book had a subtle Hunger Games vibe with the competition of finding the Enchanted Village at the end of the Iced Path. I thought how the competitors were tested was creative. Kayla did an excellent job of describing the eeriness of the Haunted Woods. It was the perfect balance of creepy and whimsy. Cole has become of one my favorite MMC. He was full of witty comebacks and one liners. He made me laugh so much! I loved Gretel’s determination to find her lost family within the woods. She was a fierce heroine. I loved their banter! The romance never went past kissing. This novella was excellent and perfect who love spooky Christmasy fairytale retellings!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
November 14, 2024
Hunger Games meets Christmas Ghosts from Christmas Carol in this amazing Hansel and Gretel retelling and it is superb! There is a competition each year to see who is noble enough to make it through the tests to reach the enchanted village, but only one can make it. Cole's job is to haunt everyone and ensure that only the truest of heart make it to the village. Poor Gretel is only there so she can be reunited with her family, she truly is pure of heart but Cole's boss isn't a fan of her and keeps pushing for more difficult tests so she doesn't make it to the village.
However, I absolutely loved the banter and spunk manifested by Gretel, along with the heart shown by both her and Cole. The kisses are swoooonnnnnyyyyyy too!
However, I absolutely loved the banter and spunk manifested by Gretel, along with the heart shown by both her and Cole. The kisses are swoooonnnnnyyyyyy too!
October 8, 2025
What an intense story!
There is much to fall in love with in this book. Descriptions of candy villages, holiday foods, and magic. As part of Eshbaugh’s larger world, the Ancients are fascinating to see. The plot never slows down once Gretel sets foot on the iced path. Cole is an intriguing character with how he bounces between capriciousness and humanness. His and Gretel’s romance is very passionate from the start, mostly on Cole’s end. He seems set on kissing her and invading her personal space with the belief that her body language’s positive reaction to him means more than her words. I’m not a fan of that since that’s a slippery slope. However, for the most part, I enjoyed the book, and would recommend it. Clean in language and content.
There is much to fall in love with in this book. Descriptions of candy villages, holiday foods, and magic. As part of Eshbaugh’s larger world, the Ancients are fascinating to see. The plot never slows down once Gretel sets foot on the iced path. Cole is an intriguing character with how he bounces between capriciousness and humanness. His and Gretel’s romance is very passionate from the start, mostly on Cole’s end. He seems set on kissing her and invading her personal space with the belief that her body language’s positive reaction to him means more than her words. I’m not a fan of that since that’s a slippery slope. However, for the most part, I enjoyed the book, and would recommend it. Clean in language and content.
November 12, 2024
This book was SO good. Oh my gosh, I loved it.
This was such a creative take on Hansel and Gretel. I loved all of the little “crumbs” that led back to the original story.
Gretel is such a fun character. She is so spunky and sassy.
Cole is funny. He loves irritating Gretel & it makes for some cute and funny banter.
There were so many cute scenes in this story .. like the wishing well and making snow dragons.
My only gripe was they never ate the rabbit stew… I am hoping they ate it off scene- or at least that is what I am telling myself…. 😂
I am really hoping we see these characters again in the cursed kingdom Chronicles… and maybe we get some kind of story about a certain character….. 🥺
Anyways, this story was amazing and I highly recommend it for an enchanting holiday read ❤️ it has plenty of cozy winter charm with a splash of adventure mixed in.
This was such a creative take on Hansel and Gretel. I loved all of the little “crumbs” that led back to the original story.
Gretel is such a fun character. She is so spunky and sassy.
Cole is funny. He loves irritating Gretel & it makes for some cute and funny banter.
There were so many cute scenes in this story .. like the wishing well and making snow dragons.
My only gripe was they never ate the rabbit stew… I am hoping they ate it off scene- or at least that is what I am telling myself…. 😂
I am really hoping we see these characters again in the cursed kingdom Chronicles… and maybe we get some kind of story about a certain character….. 🥺
Anyways, this story was amazing and I highly recommend it for an enchanting holiday read ❤️ it has plenty of cozy winter charm with a splash of adventure mixed in.
November 16, 2024
I loved this book so much that I read it twice! This Hansel & Gretel retelling stole my heart immediately. The banter. The lighthearted teasing. The swoony romance! 🥰 The scene descriptions. The drama! It literally has it all! The main characters are amazing well written and so are the side characters! Kayla Eshbaugh has been a favorite author of mine for a while, and this book will definitely hold a place in my favorites list! If you haven't started reading the Christmas Chronicles yet, what are you waiting for?!?
November 25, 2024
I'm loving this series of books! They are sweet, with decent plots for how short they are. I love Rosette and Cole together. She's so fiery, and I love her for it. So does Cole, apparently. She's also kind and giving but doesn't allow herself to be pushed around by anyone. It's sad taking in what Vera and the other Ancients suffered, but Ora is right, and it's not right to punish every human for the mistakes of some. I definitely want to read the other books that talk about the Cursed kingdoms and ancient ones.
January 19, 2025
Back in the Land of the Ancients
What a happy surprise to find another book connected to the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles!
I’m not a huge fan of the Hansel and Gretel story, but took a chance on this retelling because I knew I liked books by Kayla Eshbaugh. I was not disappointed!
This is a wonderful twist on the original tale. Just the right amount of intrigue, danger, and a growing connection between a feisty FMC and a mysterious MMC. With a splash of Ancient Teddy in the mix; adding his brand of humor and antics to ensure a HEA.
What a happy surprise to find another book connected to the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles!
I’m not a huge fan of the Hansel and Gretel story, but took a chance on this retelling because I knew I liked books by Kayla Eshbaugh. I was not disappointed!
This is a wonderful twist on the original tale. Just the right amount of intrigue, danger, and a growing connection between a feisty FMC and a mysterious MMC. With a splash of Ancient Teddy in the mix; adding his brand of humor and antics to ensure a HEA.
November 7, 2024
I really enjoyed this clean retelling of Hansel and Gretel. This tale can be read on its own although you will see some characters from the Cursed Kingdom Chronicles. Greta shows that being petite has no impact on bravery and empathy as she competes to enter the enchanted village and find out what happened to her brother and father. I am inspired to try some roasted chestnuts this holiday season and see how they are! Loved this retelling and I can't wait to find out more in the Cursed Kingdom!
November 11, 2024
I always love any chance to visit Terra, and this sweet story of Gretel's journey and of how she fought for her family and the trapped ones in the cursed forest made me happy. The candy village was the so well done, and now I want hot cocoa and some chestnuts. Of course, we all love Teddy, who appears in this book. There are also hints and clues to more of the overarching plot and details about what is going on with the ancients. It is a excellent addition to this series!
November 12, 2024
The first Christmas themed book written by Kayla Eshbaugh and it did not disappoint. Gretel Carol enters a competition no one has won before. She meets Cole the guardian of the forest who does not want her to win so he can keep her forever. This story had me had my attention from start to finish. It’s got clean romance, a brave heroine, and Christmas goodies. Congrats Kayla your first Christmas story is perfect read for the holiday season!
November 13, 2024
Such a fun read!
Gretel was so fierce in her love for her family and not letting her fears stop her. And Cole.....oh Cole, he was a riot 😂
Honestly, he'd probably make run irl, but it worked in the book 🥰
He was so confident and funny and while he had WAY too much fun teasing Gretel, I could tell he was just fascinated by her. He totally fell first and wouldn't stop until she fell for him too 😆
Also loved that even though Cole totally helped Gretel, HE also had to be rescued by his girl. They were so cute together and playful.
Cole's affection towards her also just made me blush 😳🙈😹
Gretel was so fierce in her love for her family and not letting her fears stop her. And Cole.....oh Cole, he was a riot 😂
Honestly, he'd probably make run irl, but it worked in the book 🥰
He was so confident and funny and while he had WAY too much fun teasing Gretel, I could tell he was just fascinated by her. He totally fell first and wouldn't stop until she fell for him too 😆
Also loved that even though Cole totally helped Gretel, HE also had to be rescued by his girl. They were so cute together and playful.
Cole's affection towards her also just made me blush 😳🙈😹
November 12, 2024
Wow!! This is one of my favorite fairy retells by Kayla, there are a few things that I didn't see coming in the story. The story is set in one of the kingdoms of Terra and has all the wonderful imagery that Kayla creates in all of her stories. The story is a Hanzel and Gretel retell with more of spunky Gretel as the main character. The sweet Christmas village was one of my favorite parts of the book and I would love to recreate it at Christmas. This is a definite must read story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews