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A Realm of Revelry
Curse and Spindle
Read this enchanting retelling of
Sleeping Beauty
where the only thing more dangerous than the curse is denying your greatest desire.Hidden away all twenty-five years of her life in Moonstone Wood, Seraphine Dupont is rudely awakened to the life she was born to a princess betrothed to a loathsome prince, destined for a curse she has been protected from since birth.
But on her wedding day, the cunning Ravenfae Prince Korven interrupts the ceremony, delivering her curse and unknowingly plunging her into her darkest fate. When a fae Goddess intervenes, pulling Seraphine’s spirit from her body, she and Korven are tasked with finding the one who can love her most before the ten days are up and they both are dead.
As the days tick by and they search for someone to deliver the legendary kiss, Seraphine’s spirit slowly solidifies, igniting the unbearable tension between her and Korven. Every touch and lingering glance draws them closer to surrendering to their deepest desire–each other and a future together that can never be.
But on her wedding day, the cunning Ravenfae Prince Korven interrupts the ceremony, delivering her curse and unknowingly plunging her into her darkest fate. When a fae Goddess intervenes, pulling Seraphine’s spirit from her body, she and Korven are tasked with finding the one who can love her most before the ten days are up and they both are dead.
As the days tick by and they search for someone to deliver the legendary kiss, Seraphine’s spirit slowly solidifies, igniting the unbearable tension between her and Korven. Every touch and lingering glance draws them closer to surrendering to their deepest desire–each other and a future together that can never be.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2025
38 people are currently reading
719 people want to read
About the author
Chelsey Ann Tompkins
6 books107 followersChelsey Ann Tompkins writes romance in a fantasy setting with some good twists and spice along the way. Though she grew up in a small town in the desert, she found her true home near Seattle where she loves to read on the rainiest days with a good cup of coffee. She lives with her husband and two wildly imaginative children.
Find her on Instagram @chelseyanntompkins
Find her on Instagram @chelseyanntompkins
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
May 30, 2025
Read this novella in one sitting. I love sleeping beauty retellings so much and this one did not disappoint! The MMC is a raven shifter sent to deliver a curse to a princess who had long evaded it. He finds her on her wedding night, walking down the aisle to a fate she never wanted. But the curse he delivers does not go as planned.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but the twist is really good! I thoroughly enjoyed this spicy little novella!
I don’t want to spoil anything, but the twist is really good! I thoroughly enjoyed this spicy little novella!
March 7, 2025
This little Sleepy Beauty retelling was the PERFECT length: the choice for the book to be a novella instead of a full-length novel really captures the feel of a classic fairytale. And one of my favorite things about Chelsey’s writing is her ability to create intimacy and soft moments throughout spicy scenes, allowing for relationship building and character growth that such intimacy can create.
Seraphine is grudgingly walking down the aisle to Prince Urik, dreading the life that was forced upon her. As luck would have it (or, well, not luck at all), Ravenfae Prince Korven is here to save the day (by bestowing upon her a curse that she was hiding from since birth, but who’s counting)!!
But since the curse is arriving 25 years too late, they’re unsure how the time lost will affect the curse. Do not fear! A fae Goddess (and Seraphine’s protector for the last quarter of a century) is here to intervene, pulling Seraphine’s spirit from her body and buying her some time.
Ten days. Seraphine has ten days to find the one who loves her most in order to return to her body and avoid death. Guess who’s lucky (or again, not so lucky) enough to join in on this adventure. If you guessed Ravenfae Prince Korven, you are correct! Oh yeah, he dies too if they don’t succeed.
I’m obsessed with the twists on the Sleeping Beauty story that Chelsey spun. I mean, Seraphine is part ethereal, which leads to some quite interesting scenarios; and Korven’s a raven-shifter, which means he has some peculiar habits. And as Seraphine slowly begins to solidify, both parties find it particularly difficult to keep away from each other and focus on the task at hand.
🏰 Sleeping Beauty retelling
🐦⬛ jealous MMC
💜 childhood friends
🏰 quest to break a curse
🐦⬛ raven-shifter prince
💜 library and books
Thank you, Chelsey, for an advance copy of this cute little spicy thing. I can’t wait to see what other adventures the Realm of Revelry brings!
Seraphine is grudgingly walking down the aisle to Prince Urik, dreading the life that was forced upon her. As luck would have it (or, well, not luck at all), Ravenfae Prince Korven is here to save the day (by bestowing upon her a curse that she was hiding from since birth, but who’s counting)!!
But since the curse is arriving 25 years too late, they’re unsure how the time lost will affect the curse. Do not fear! A fae Goddess (and Seraphine’s protector for the last quarter of a century) is here to intervene, pulling Seraphine’s spirit from her body and buying her some time.
Ten days. Seraphine has ten days to find the one who loves her most in order to return to her body and avoid death. Guess who’s lucky (or again, not so lucky) enough to join in on this adventure. If you guessed Ravenfae Prince Korven, you are correct! Oh yeah, he dies too if they don’t succeed.
I’m obsessed with the twists on the Sleeping Beauty story that Chelsey spun. I mean, Seraphine is part ethereal, which leads to some quite interesting scenarios; and Korven’s a raven-shifter, which means he has some peculiar habits. And as Seraphine slowly begins to solidify, both parties find it particularly difficult to keep away from each other and focus on the task at hand.
🏰 Sleeping Beauty retelling
🐦⬛ jealous MMC
💜 childhood friends
🏰 quest to break a curse
🐦⬛ raven-shifter prince
💜 library and books
Thank you, Chelsey, for an advance copy of this cute little spicy thing. I can’t wait to see what other adventures the Realm of Revelry brings!
May 1, 2025
4.75 🌟
"Like the curse made for me that night of my birth under a moon-drenched sky, my fate would be known to all in such precious little time. Would I live or die?" (Ch 24)
Seraphine was walking down the aisle to her future, to Prince Urik. Of course, she didn't want to be ball and chained shackled. She had been hidden since birth in Forestfae, and that was where she wanted to be. She was supposed to be cursed at birth, but it was thwarted when her parents whisked her away before it could be placed upon her. Luckily (or unluckily) fate had come swooping down, in the form of a raven -- a Ravenfae Prince, rather -- to deliver it, just in time to save her from a life with the arrogant prince -- the other prince. Now a prick, some blood, a long sleep.... except it didn't exactly happen that way.
She might be dead soon if she and that damnable bird prince, Korven, didn't work together to find the cure to the new and improved perhaps-better-off-dead curse. To break the curse, she had to find her true love. She didn't have much time. Days... she had days. And she had a problem, well two -- not including Korven -- she was incorporeal, and not everyone could see or hear her.
Absolutely adore this little charming reimagined version of Sleeping Beauty! It's sort of a paranormal fantasy rom-com. I'm a sucker for combo genres. It is cute and flirty. And who doesn't love a kind of grumpy yet reluctantly acquiescing fae who can spin and knit!
eARC Novella Review.
"Like the curse made for me that night of my birth under a moon-drenched sky, my fate would be known to all in such precious little time. Would I live or die?" (Ch 24)
Seraphine was walking down the aisle to her future, to Prince Urik. Of course, she didn't want to be ball and chained shackled. She had been hidden since birth in Forestfae, and that was where she wanted to be. She was supposed to be cursed at birth, but it was thwarted when her parents whisked her away before it could be placed upon her. Luckily (or unluckily) fate had come swooping down, in the form of a raven -- a Ravenfae Prince, rather -- to deliver it, just in time to save her from a life with the arrogant prince -- the other prince. Now a prick, some blood, a long sleep.... except it didn't exactly happen that way.
She might be dead soon if she and that damnable bird prince, Korven, didn't work together to find the cure to the new and improved perhaps-better-off-dead curse. To break the curse, she had to find her true love. She didn't have much time. Days... she had days. And she had a problem, well two -- not including Korven -- she was incorporeal, and not everyone could see or hear her.
Absolutely adore this little charming reimagined version of Sleeping Beauty! It's sort of a paranormal fantasy rom-com. I'm a sucker for combo genres. It is cute and flirty. And who doesn't love a kind of grumpy yet reluctantly acquiescing fae who can spin and knit!
eARC Novella Review.
March 8, 2025
What fresh hell is this?
****************************
Damn, I really do have a thing for bird boys.
This novella was short and sweet, with the right amount of spice. I really enjoyed the dual POV and I’m a sucker for a fairytale retelling. The FMC was great and I really appreciated the fact that she wasn’t some innocent 18 year old girl. Seraphine is 25, sweet but a little sassy, and knows exactly what she wants. Love that for her. Don’t even get me started on Korven… a brooding, enigmatic man (bird?) on the outside but a total stocking knitting sweetheart on the inside. *swoon* I honestly wish there was more to this book because I have questions!
If you find joy in the worlds of curses, fate, and a sweet rekindling of love, this story is one that will linger in your heart like a dream you can’t quite forget.
Thank you for the ARC Chelsey!
****************************
Damn, I really do have a thing for bird boys.
This novella was short and sweet, with the right amount of spice. I really enjoyed the dual POV and I’m a sucker for a fairytale retelling. The FMC was great and I really appreciated the fact that she wasn’t some innocent 18 year old girl. Seraphine is 25, sweet but a little sassy, and knows exactly what she wants. Love that for her. Don’t even get me started on Korven… a brooding, enigmatic man (bird?) on the outside but a total stocking knitting sweetheart on the inside. *swoon* I honestly wish there was more to this book because I have questions!
If you find joy in the worlds of curses, fate, and a sweet rekindling of love, this story is one that will linger in your heart like a dream you can’t quite forget.
Thank you for the ARC Chelsey!
November 19, 2025
A sweet and spicy retelling of Sleeping Beauty 🤭
Sleeping Beauty has to be one of the hardest fairytales to retell, since in the original the main character isn’t even awake for half the story 😅 but I'm pleased to say it works very well in this novella. I really enjoyed how the author interpreted the original elements but gave them a fresh twist to make this story her own.
The tension between Seraphine and Korven was tangible, I loved how the author managed the slow burn but also the evolution of their relationship. Also I must say I'm partial to a man who 🤣❤️ (BTW, I highly recommend looking at the official character art 😍)
The world building appeared to be very rich for a short story. Even if we only learned the necessary things for the plot to make sense, it made me think there might be more stories to tell in this world.
Overall I really enjoyed this one! Definitely following the author for more of her work.
Thanks to author Chelsey Ann Tompkins for providing an eARC
Sleeping Beauty has to be one of the hardest fairytales to retell, since in the original the main character isn’t even awake for half the story 😅 but I'm pleased to say it works very well in this novella. I really enjoyed how the author interpreted the original elements but gave them a fresh twist to make this story her own.
The tension between Seraphine and Korven was tangible, I loved how the author managed the slow burn but also the evolution of their relationship. Also I must say I'm partial to a man who 🤣❤️ (BTW, I highly recommend looking at the official character art 😍)
The world building appeared to be very rich for a short story. Even if we only learned the necessary things for the plot to make sense, it made me think there might be more stories to tell in this world.
Overall I really enjoyed this one! Definitely following the author for more of her work.
Thanks to author Chelsey Ann Tompkins for providing an eARC
October 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)
🌶️🌶️ (2 spice)
I randomly stumbled upon this book, and after reading the description, I was intrigued. I don’t think I’ve ever read a Sleeping Beauty retelling before, so I figured why not?
First off, this book is short (under 200 pages), so I was worried it wouldn’t give me much. Joke’s on me, though, because for such a small book, the author managed to pack in a lot. While it has the Sleeping Beauty framework, much of the story felt new and different in a really good way. It gave me the vibes without being a copy-paste retelling.
The plot wasn’t over the top and felt fairly simple, but it worked so well for the book’s size. I loved the characters and was pleasantly surprised by how much depth the author added. The character interactions were great, and I enjoyed watching the build-up between them.
For such a short story, the pacing was handled well. It didn’t feel rushed, and although I do think the book could have been longer with even more content, I wasn’t disappointed. It gave me a little bit of everything romance, intrigue, fun without making me feel like I was racing through it.
As for the spice… It was technically open-door, but it felt a little watered down compared to other open-door scenes I’ve read. It was fine, but it didn’t quite hit for me.
💕 Things I Loved:
The fresh twist on a classic fairytale
Seraphine’s personal growth
Korven. Enough said.
How full the story felt despite its length
A perfect quick read
The ending
🙃 What Didn’t Work for Me:
The spice just wasn’t spicy enough for my taste
Would I recommend this book?
Absolutely! It was a really nice, easy read.
Would I reread it?
Yes. It’s short, fun, and would be a great reread during a slump.
How I’d sum it up:
A quick, lightly spicy Sleeping Beauty retelling that leaves you smiling.
https://bestbooks89.blogspot.com/2025...
🌶️🌶️ (2 spice)
I randomly stumbled upon this book, and after reading the description, I was intrigued. I don’t think I’ve ever read a Sleeping Beauty retelling before, so I figured why not?
First off, this book is short (under 200 pages), so I was worried it wouldn’t give me much. Joke’s on me, though, because for such a small book, the author managed to pack in a lot. While it has the Sleeping Beauty framework, much of the story felt new and different in a really good way. It gave me the vibes without being a copy-paste retelling.
The plot wasn’t over the top and felt fairly simple, but it worked so well for the book’s size. I loved the characters and was pleasantly surprised by how much depth the author added. The character interactions were great, and I enjoyed watching the build-up between them.
For such a short story, the pacing was handled well. It didn’t feel rushed, and although I do think the book could have been longer with even more content, I wasn’t disappointed. It gave me a little bit of everything romance, intrigue, fun without making me feel like I was racing through it.
As for the spice… It was technically open-door, but it felt a little watered down compared to other open-door scenes I’ve read. It was fine, but it didn’t quite hit for me.
💕 Things I Loved:
The fresh twist on a classic fairytale
Seraphine’s personal growth
Korven. Enough said.
How full the story felt despite its length
A perfect quick read
The ending
🙃 What Didn’t Work for Me:
The spice just wasn’t spicy enough for my taste
Would I recommend this book?
Absolutely! It was a really nice, easy read.
Would I reread it?
Yes. It’s short, fun, and would be a great reread during a slump.
How I’d sum it up:
A quick, lightly spicy Sleeping Beauty retelling that leaves you smiling.
https://bestbooks89.blogspot.com/2025...
March 13, 2025
*** ARC read ***
When the description stated 'retelling of Sleeping Beauty' this was not what I was expecting. I expected some adaptations to the fairytale, but this was out of this world. I loved the book from start to finish! It's written in a good pace and has a good length for the story. Throughout the whole book, I wanted to keep reading, curious about what would happen next. I also liked the dual POV
This book definitely makes me want to read other books by the author. It is safe to say that this book got me out of my reading slump.
● forced proximity
● protective MMC
● explicit content / has some spice
● dual POV
When the description stated 'retelling of Sleeping Beauty' this was not what I was expecting. I expected some adaptations to the fairytale, but this was out of this world. I loved the book from start to finish! It's written in a good pace and has a good length for the story. Throughout the whole book, I wanted to keep reading, curious about what would happen next. I also liked the dual POV
This book definitely makes me want to read other books by the author. It is safe to say that this book got me out of my reading slump.
● forced proximity
● protective MMC
● explicit content / has some spice
● dual POV
May 6, 2025
I read this cozy romantasy in one sitting. If you love a sleeping beauty retelling with a twist, then you’ll love this.
This was my first book by Chelsey and I love how she writes. Her storytelling is so easy to follow and although this book is short, she captures the world and how her characters perfectly.
Seraphine is a human princes who has always been cursed and on her wedding day, the curse is activated. With the help of fae Raven Prince whose mother cursed her, she attempts to find her prince to kiss her, true love’s kiss. She is cursed that only the fae can see her and her body awaits.
Tropes:
Cursed princess
Forbidden romance
“F$ck it” moment
Slow burn to spice (and the spice was spicing)
Broody, dark fae prince
Reluctant allies
I highly recommend and I can’t wait for book 2.
Thank you Chelsey for this e-arc!!
This was my first book by Chelsey and I love how she writes. Her storytelling is so easy to follow and although this book is short, she captures the world and how her characters perfectly.
Seraphine is a human princes who has always been cursed and on her wedding day, the curse is activated. With the help of fae Raven Prince whose mother cursed her, she attempts to find her prince to kiss her, true love’s kiss. She is cursed that only the fae can see her and her body awaits.
Tropes:
Cursed princess
Forbidden romance
“F$ck it” moment
Slow burn to spice (and the spice was spicing)
Broody, dark fae prince
Reluctant allies
I highly recommend and I can’t wait for book 2.
Thank you Chelsey for this e-arc!!
November 30, 2025
~ just finished thoughts
That was a cute little reimagining of sleeping beauty. It started quickly but then spent some time to build toward the end.
✻ Sleeping Beauty Retellings
✻ Short, Quick little Reads
✻ Romantasy
That was a cute little reimagining of sleeping beauty. It started quickly but then spent some time to build toward the end.
✻ Sleeping Beauty Retellings
✻ Short, Quick little Reads
✻ Romantasy
February 19, 2025
This retelling of Sleeping Beauty is absolutely fantastic! It brings a fresh and unique twist to the classic, adding just the right amount of spice I never knew I needed in a fairy tale. The characters’ personalities and clever details make the story even more entertaining. I couldn’t put it down! I can’t wait for the rest of the collection!
October 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ 2 🌶️
What a cute sweet short story. This is a 151 page book but very well executed! This is a Sleeping Beauty retelling.
We have very little world building for obvious reasons. There is magic but I found myself wanting a little more because my heart always craves it.
We have Seraphine who not your normal innocent flower. Shes cheeky and quick to flirt and a human. We then have Korven who is possessive and protective and we love it. Oh and he is a Raven Shifter Fae Prince 😏. They were once friends but are now strangers. They find themselves ina forced proximity situation where the lines begin to blur. The spice scenes were very well done. It had me sweating at times 😮💨.
We have a small side cast which I appreciated. Arthur was a sweetheart and should be protected!
The ending surprisingly had a bit of a plot twist. Nicely wrapped up! I would highly recommend this tiny little book. Perfect for in between series. Excited for the next one!
Things I didnt love. Seraphine a couple of times asks him to do things to her which was meant that way but I wish it was more of a surprise element?
What a cute sweet short story. This is a 151 page book but very well executed! This is a Sleeping Beauty retelling.
We have very little world building for obvious reasons. There is magic but I found myself wanting a little more because my heart always craves it.
We have Seraphine who not your normal innocent flower. Shes cheeky and quick to flirt and a human. We then have Korven who is possessive and protective and we love it. Oh and he is a Raven Shifter Fae Prince 😏. They were once friends but are now strangers. They find themselves ina forced proximity situation where the lines begin to blur. The spice scenes were very well done. It had me sweating at times 😮💨.
We have a small side cast which I appreciated. Arthur was a sweetheart and should be protected!
The ending surprisingly had a bit of a plot twist. Nicely wrapped up! I would highly recommend this tiny little book. Perfect for in between series. Excited for the next one!
Things I didnt love. Seraphine a couple of times asks him to do things to her which was meant that way but I wish it was more of a surprise element?
March 9, 2025
I love how much world and story and character depth Chelsey packed into this novella. Only 160 pages and I still begged for them to kiss, there were a few quotes that had me almost tearing up, and I still got mad at dumb men. 😂
“There’s more of you.” “Why is there more of you, Seraphine?” -- one thing I love about the men in Chelsey's books is that they usually have a line they repeat and it always takes on new and deepening meanings as the story progresses. I loved that this was Korven's line. 😍
"Two friends,” I amended, “playing and reading under an old sycamore tree before their lives moved on without the other.” - this is a line that had me emotional. It's hard not to think about my own childhood friendships and how we've moved on without each other. 😭
Life is so beautiful & hard. And Chelsey wrote that perfectly in Curse & Spindle.
"Yes, I tattooed the feather I lost onto my skin and with every prick of every needle, I remembered you. Every fucking one.”
Oh Phinie, I love you and your vulnerability. And I absolutely was living for the ending!!!! 🔥
I'm a forever Chelsey fan. You should be too!
“There’s more of you.” “Why is there more of you, Seraphine?” -- one thing I love about the men in Chelsey's books is that they usually have a line they repeat and it always takes on new and deepening meanings as the story progresses. I loved that this was Korven's line. 😍
"Two friends,” I amended, “playing and reading under an old sycamore tree before their lives moved on without the other.” - this is a line that had me emotional. It's hard not to think about my own childhood friendships and how we've moved on without each other. 😭
Life is so beautiful & hard. And Chelsey wrote that perfectly in Curse & Spindle.
"Yes, I tattooed the feather I lost onto my skin and with every prick of every needle, I remembered you. Every fucking one.”
Oh Phinie, I love you and your vulnerability. And I absolutely was living for the ending!!!! 🔥
I'm a forever Chelsey fan. You should be too!
March 13, 2025
6 ⭐/ 3🌶️
I have never before wanted to give a novella 6 stars, but here we are. I absolutely adored this short and sweet Sleeping Beauty retelling. The author took the classical threads and weaved the tale into a whole new story with a fresh take on the curse and the characters involved.
Korven and Seraphine were absolutely amazing main characters. Who doesn't like a good winged man and a feisty sex-positive female?
And that bath scene? 🔥🔥🔥
It's out April 30th so add it to your list and check it out!
I have never before wanted to give a novella 6 stars, but here we are. I absolutely adored this short and sweet Sleeping Beauty retelling. The author took the classical threads and weaved the tale into a whole new story with a fresh take on the curse and the characters involved.
Korven and Seraphine were absolutely amazing main characters. Who doesn't like a good winged man and a feisty sex-positive female?
And that bath scene? 🔥🔥🔥
It's out April 30th so add it to your list and check it out!
May 6, 2025
ARC Review | 4.5 🌟
This book pulled me right out of a reading slump—that’s how good it is. With novellas, the shorter length can make or break a story, but Chelsey did an incredible job of balancing rich detail without unnecessary filler. Though I initially struggled to find my pace, it didn’t take long before I was completely hooked.
Even as a retelling, she made the perfect adjustments to create something uniquely different while preserving the essence of the original. But what truly stands out is Chelsey’s talent for crafting characters with unparalleled chemistry. This is one of the spiciest books she’s written, and I’m not ashamed to admit I highlighted a lot of Korven’s lines. Personally, I would have loved a bit more slow burn, but given the novella format, I understand why the pacing leaned faster.
And of course, like in most of her books, she kept me on my toes with a twist I never saw coming, making for a fantastic conclusion. A short fantasy standalone that’s simple yet thoroughly enjoyable—I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for the Realm of Revelry series!
This book pulled me right out of a reading slump—that’s how good it is. With novellas, the shorter length can make or break a story, but Chelsey did an incredible job of balancing rich detail without unnecessary filler. Though I initially struggled to find my pace, it didn’t take long before I was completely hooked.
Even as a retelling, she made the perfect adjustments to create something uniquely different while preserving the essence of the original. But what truly stands out is Chelsey’s talent for crafting characters with unparalleled chemistry. This is one of the spiciest books she’s written, and I’m not ashamed to admit I highlighted a lot of Korven’s lines. Personally, I would have loved a bit more slow burn, but given the novella format, I understand why the pacing leaned faster.
And of course, like in most of her books, she kept me on my toes with a twist I never saw coming, making for a fantastic conclusion. A short fantasy standalone that’s simple yet thoroughly enjoyable—I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for the Realm of Revelry series!
June 11, 2025
I just know this author loves acotar 💀 because this felt like a rhysand x feyre fanfic. And not a good one. (I don't like sjm)
fmc who's more obsessed than the mmc? Yeah no. Absolutely not
She fell firts and harder
She was in love with him the whole time
Got a tattoo of him eww gag while he moved on. They used to be childhood friends but he had no problem cursing her which included the possibilty of killing her and he didn't give a fuck
after he cursed her she was still desperate for him and acted like he wasn't the one who did this to her in the first place and was ready to jump his bones (she did exactly that)
Another doormat fmc who's desperate for a dick (sigh)
Not her buying him an updated book for delivering curses i.. 💀 i cant make this shit up. For thanking that he helped her break the curse which he delivered? Like make it make sense
He called her Phinie darling *eyeroll* (Feyre darling)
I hated her nickname, Phinie for Seraphine is diabolical and calling her darling gave me the ick i just know he also calls every woman that.
Only thing i liked is that in the end she saved herself. Could have been better if she ended up alone.
And the ending? The reasons why he couldn't be with her just vanished. Everything was fine now and he proposed okay?? And his sister? Nothing. The story was full of plot holes and inconsistencies. Yeah this author is not for me
fmc who's more obsessed than the mmc? Yeah no. Absolutely not
She fell firts and harder
She was in love with him the whole time
Got a tattoo of him eww gag while he moved on. They used to be childhood friends but he had no problem cursing her which included the possibilty of killing her and he didn't give a fuck
after he cursed her she was still desperate for him and acted like he wasn't the one who did this to her in the first place and was ready to jump his bones (she did exactly that)
Another doormat fmc who's desperate for a dick (sigh)
Not her buying him an updated book for delivering curses i.. 💀 i cant make this shit up. For thanking that he helped her break the curse which he delivered? Like make it make sense
He called her Phinie darling *eyeroll* (Feyre darling)
I hated her nickname, Phinie for Seraphine is diabolical and calling her darling gave me the ick i just know he also calls every woman that.
Only thing i liked is that in the end she saved herself. Could have been better if she ended up alone.
And the ending? The reasons why he couldn't be with her just vanished. Everything was fine now and he proposed okay?? And his sister? Nothing. The story was full of plot holes and inconsistencies. Yeah this author is not for me
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2025
Delightfully fresh sleeping beauty fairytale retelling that turns the original on its head with a jealous ravenfae, a princess with a sense of humor, and a whole new magical world to explore. I enjoyed every second of this 150 page novella, laughing out loud at the instantly loveable characters. There were fun surprises in every chapter, the storytelling is woven masterfully as always, and there are so many great lines I highlighted.
Stop what you're doing and go grab a copy!
Stop what you're doing and go grab a copy!
April 16, 2025
Thank you so much to the author for an early copy of this book!
This was such a sweet, fun, and enchanting retelling. It was a perfect mix of story, relationship and character growth, and spicy moments. This is the start of a series of retellings that I am eager to continue!
The dual POV was perfect for this story. I loved both Seraphine and Korven, and I’m so sad to have to say goodbye to them so soon! Novellas are always so bittersweet. Seraphine was a sweet and sassy heroine who was always more than capable of taking care of herself. But that doesn’t mean she can’t depend even a little bit on her childhood friend to help her out of this curse he delivered. The depth of these characters is incredibly surprising and welcome considering the length of the book. This has solidified my need to read the rest of Chelsey’s books. If she was this talented with a novella, I can’t wait to see a full length novel!
My only real notes on this story are that I just wanted more. Because of the shorter length of the story I’m left wishing more time had been spent on certain aspects of the plot. Especially the ending with waking Seraphine up. I would have loved a little more time spent in her head about how that ending came about. Certain parts felt a little rushed, and I would have loved more dedicated time. But that’s just what sometimes happens with novellas! It was still a great story.
This was such a sweet, fun, and enchanting retelling. It was a perfect mix of story, relationship and character growth, and spicy moments. This is the start of a series of retellings that I am eager to continue!
The dual POV was perfect for this story. I loved both Seraphine and Korven, and I’m so sad to have to say goodbye to them so soon! Novellas are always so bittersweet. Seraphine was a sweet and sassy heroine who was always more than capable of taking care of herself. But that doesn’t mean she can’t depend even a little bit on her childhood friend to help her out of this curse he delivered. The depth of these characters is incredibly surprising and welcome considering the length of the book. This has solidified my need to read the rest of Chelsey’s books. If she was this talented with a novella, I can’t wait to see a full length novel!
My only real notes on this story are that I just wanted more. Because of the shorter length of the story I’m left wishing more time had been spent on certain aspects of the plot. Especially the ending with waking Seraphine up. I would have loved a little more time spent in her head about how that ending came about. Certain parts felt a little rushed, and I would have loved more dedicated time. But that’s just what sometimes happens with novellas! It was still a great story.
April 6, 2025
Whoa, this was an easy 5 ⭐️ read for me! It was my first book by this author, though I do own her others, and it did not disappoint! I can’t wait to check out the rest! 🙌🏻
This Sleeping Beauty novella packs a punch and I loved the route she took with the story. It was short, sweet and deliciously spicy. I chuckled so many times at how over the top Korven would act when his feathers were ruffled. 🤭 This gorgeous raven shifter prince just swoops in, curses his childhood friend at her wedding, and then plays chaperone while introducing her to eligible bachelors to break her curse. 🤣 Only problem is that he’s obsessed with her and has been for a long time. It was so angsty! I LOVED IT!
Add to your TBR if you enjoy 👇
Jealous Raven Shifter
Fairytale Retellings
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
He Knits 🧶 👀 🫢
Her Body Reappears Slowly (bottom to top…)
Second Chances
This Sleeping Beauty novella packs a punch and I loved the route she took with the story. It was short, sweet and deliciously spicy. I chuckled so many times at how over the top Korven would act when his feathers were ruffled. 🤭 This gorgeous raven shifter prince just swoops in, curses his childhood friend at her wedding, and then plays chaperone while introducing her to eligible bachelors to break her curse. 🤣 Only problem is that he’s obsessed with her and has been for a long time. It was so angsty! I LOVED IT!
Add to your TBR if you enjoy 👇
Jealous Raven Shifter
Fairytale Retellings
Forced Proximity
Forbidden Romance
He Knits 🧶 👀 🫢
Her Body Reappears Slowly (bottom to top…)
Second Chances
July 28, 2025
This book? Pure temptation wrapped in fairytale lace. Chelsey Ann Tompkins doesn’t just retell a story—she seduces it, breathing in tension, heat, and a kind of magic that clings to your skin long after the last page. Her prose is wickedly pretty, like a kiss with teeth, and the way she spins this classic tale? Utterly intoxicating.
The banter? Sharp as a blade. The spice? Slow, smoldering, and so worth the burn. The tension between the leads had me squirming, screaming, and begging for just one more page. And that’s my only complaint—there weren’t more pages. I’d sell my soul for a longer version of this twisted, delicious fairytale.
The banter? Sharp as a blade. The spice? Slow, smoldering, and so worth the burn. The tension between the leads had me squirming, screaming, and begging for just one more page. And that’s my only complaint—there weren’t more pages. I’d sell my soul for a longer version of this twisted, delicious fairytale.
April 4, 2025
Well, I absolutely loved this Sleeping Beauty retelling.
There wasn’t one moment when Seraphine irritated me. She is such a well-balanced, fierce FMC.
Korven is a broody, devoted prize of a prince that I’d like to win every day of the week:
I loved the story, I loved discovering who loved Phinie darling most, and I loved the HEA.
No notes. I’m bumping this author’s other books to the top of my TBR.
A massive thank you to Chelsey Ann Tompkins for giving me the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this lovely, spicy novella.
There wasn’t one moment when Seraphine irritated me. She is such a well-balanced, fierce FMC.
Korven is a broody, devoted prize of a prince that I’d like to win every day of the week:
I loved the story, I loved discovering who loved Phinie darling most, and I loved the HEA.
No notes. I’m bumping this author’s other books to the top of my TBR.
A massive thank you to Chelsey Ann Tompkins for giving me the opportunity to read and review an advanced copy of this lovely, spicy novella.
April 10, 2025
4⭐️
60 second review: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdNC2fd4/
Thank you to Chelsey Ann Tompkins for sending me this e-ARC to read and review.
This was a great little short read!
Awesome dark romantasy retelling of the tale of Sleeping Beauty with a twist! I loved every page and my only main criticism was that I wished it had been longer!
We jumped straight in to the action which I loved but also kind of wished it had slowed down a bit to be less rushed.
60 second review: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdNC2fd4/
Thank you to Chelsey Ann Tompkins for sending me this e-ARC to read and review.
This was a great little short read!
Awesome dark romantasy retelling of the tale of Sleeping Beauty with a twist! I loved every page and my only main criticism was that I wished it had been longer!
We jumped straight in to the action which I loved but also kind of wished it had slowed down a bit to be less rushed.
April 15, 2025
*Arc review *
This was a very good novella! I wanted more!! Loved the adaptation of the story, the different but the known story! The characters and the tension between them was omg!!!! The story got me from start to finish! The twist was amazing! It was so easy to get into and the writing was good! It got a 4 star because I wanted more!! Give me more!! 😄 I will read more of this author!
This was a very good novella! I wanted more!! Loved the adaptation of the story, the different but the known story! The characters and the tension between them was omg!!!! The story got me from start to finish! The twist was amazing! It was so easy to get into and the writing was good! It got a 4 star because I wanted more!! Give me more!! 😄 I will read more of this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2025
This is a fantastic retelling of Sleeping Beauty! The way it’s written feels fresh and unique, bringing a creative twist to the classic fairytale. And the ending—I absolutely loved it! Not only is this a beautifully reimagined story, but it also carries a meaningful message for those who struggle with self-worth. It’s a tale that reminds readers that it’s okay to love yourself.
March 30, 2025
I am beyond honoured to be one of your ARC readers, having the privilege of reading this before publication.
MY DARLING, I love a storyteller that can give me visceral responses. My heart swelled, my feet kicked, my fists clenched and I laughed out loud… I adored this read. I devoured it in one day.
Not only did this sleeping beauty retelling have ingrained lessons for the reader, but it was an original twist.
Chelsey left gifts throughout this novella, true to Korven’s style 😉 gifts of unique and refreshing moments, that made me certain of something—Korven is officially on my book boyfriends list. And I’m picky.
Following Seraphine’s journey encouraged reflections for me, and the barriers woman face to have autonomy in their life. To choose our path, free from the chains of predetermined systems and societal expectations. We are more than just being seen and not heard. We deserve true freedom to be our wild, untethered and assertive selves. But to also be nurtured. It encapsulated such a well rounded feminine energy, and what wonders unfold when met with true masculinity.
(Which I also want to note, I LOVED the vastness of masculinity representation).
Thank you for this story Chelsey. I SWOONED. I still am. I can’t wait to read more of your work.
Done 😉
xx keeks
MY DARLING, I love a storyteller that can give me visceral responses. My heart swelled, my feet kicked, my fists clenched and I laughed out loud… I adored this read. I devoured it in one day.
Not only did this sleeping beauty retelling have ingrained lessons for the reader, but it was an original twist.
Chelsey left gifts throughout this novella, true to Korven’s style 😉 gifts of unique and refreshing moments, that made me certain of something—Korven is officially on my book boyfriends list. And I’m picky.
Following Seraphine’s journey encouraged reflections for me, and the barriers woman face to have autonomy in their life. To choose our path, free from the chains of predetermined systems and societal expectations. We are more than just being seen and not heard. We deserve true freedom to be our wild, untethered and assertive selves. But to also be nurtured. It encapsulated such a well rounded feminine energy, and what wonders unfold when met with true masculinity.
(Which I also want to note, I LOVED the vastness of masculinity representation).
Thank you for this story Chelsey. I SWOONED. I still am. I can’t wait to read more of your work.
Done 😉
xx keeks
August 24, 2025
This book was amazing. It was a very cool retelling of sleeping beauty.
I loved Seraphine. I LOVED Korven.
Mostly, I loved how she ended up saving herself and getting the happy ending she wanted and deserved
I loved Seraphine. I LOVED Korven.
Mostly, I loved how she ended up saving herself and getting the happy ending she wanted and deserved
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2025
oh my goodness what a cute story! I devoured this and fell in love with everyone. I wish there was more but I can't wait to see the rest of the series!!
May 8, 2025
I liked this, and the ending was just perfect 🤭
July 14, 2025
I loved this!
This was so good. If you love a spicy sleeping beauty retelling then this is for you. The plot was amazing and I loved the characters.
This was so good. If you love a spicy sleeping beauty retelling then this is for you. The plot was amazing and I loved the characters.
October 11, 2025
#sleepingbeauty
This may have been short but it was surprisingly enjoyable.
Had the novella been written into a full novel, I would have enjoyed it better.
There was enough feelings imbued in the words to move me with a hint of passion.
This may have been short but it was surprisingly enjoyable.
Had the novella been written into a full novel, I would have enjoyed it better.
There was enough feelings imbued in the words to move me with a hint of passion.
August 19, 2025
Absolutely loved this. I loved how different this was. I wish it was a full story and not a novella.
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