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The Rumpled Gentleman
A Romantic Rumplestiltskin Retelling Full of Magic, Mystery, and a Deal That Changes EverythingElara Millstone never wanted a life of impossible bargains. But when her father, once a respected alchemist, claims he can change straw into gold, they find themselves trapped in a dangerous game with the powerful Duke of Sutton. If her father fails to deliver on his promise, imprisonment would be the least of their worries.
Desperate to save them, Elara makes a deal of her own with a mysterious masked gentleman who seems to hold the key to their survival. But magic and alchemy are not the only forces at play—secrets, deception, and an unexpected attraction makes things more precarious. As Elara works to outwit the ruthless duke, she begins to wonder: has she struck a bargain with a savior or merely exchanged one cage for another?
Set in a Victorian-inspired world where magic is real and power is the ruling currency, The Rumpled Gentleman is a romantic, historical fantasy retelling of Rumplestiltskin filled with intrigue, romance, and a heroine who refuses to be anyone’s pawn.
Perfect for fans of fairy tale retellings, historical fantasy, and stories where wit and courage are the strongest magic of all.
Originally included in the anthology Magic and Miracles.
Desperate to save them, Elara makes a deal of her own with a mysterious masked gentleman who seems to hold the key to their survival. But magic and alchemy are not the only forces at play—secrets, deception, and an unexpected attraction makes things more precarious. As Elara works to outwit the ruthless duke, she begins to wonder: has she struck a bargain with a savior or merely exchanged one cage for another?
Set in a Victorian-inspired world where magic is real and power is the ruling currency, The Rumpled Gentleman is a romantic, historical fantasy retelling of Rumplestiltskin filled with intrigue, romance, and a heroine who refuses to be anyone’s pawn.
Perfect for fans of fairy tale retellings, historical fantasy, and stories where wit and courage are the strongest magic of all.
Originally included in the anthology Magic and Miracles.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2025
About the author
Sally Britton
47 books1,282 followersSally Britton is sixth generation Texan, received her BA in English forever ago, and reads voraciously. She started her writing journey at the tender age of fourteen on an electric typewriter, and she’s never looked back.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
Sally lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four children, and their overly energetic Australian Shepherds, cat, and snake named Nancy. She loves researching, hiking, and eating too much chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 20, 2025
I've become a big fan of Sally Britton's work over the last year. Big Fan. She typically writes super clean and sweet Regency and Victorian stories.
I literally only read this one to support her. I've heard her say on her YT channel and in this book that she felt this SUPER short, magical, fantastical, Rumplestilskin retelling was incomplete but decided to put it out there as a basically unfinished, but very fun story.
It was cute. It was a neat (way more positive and less dark) retelling.
However, please don't let this be your first book of Britton's.
Chalk this one up to the author deciding to publish a story she included in an anthology years ago as a fundraiser (now out of print), that she said she'd love to expand into a full-length novel. I can understand her not wanting to waste the story. But also not having time to expand it right now because she's writing other books.
If you haven't read her books yet, I highly suggest Clairvior Castle and Hearts of Arizona series' ✨✨
I literally only read this one to support her. I've heard her say on her YT channel and in this book that she felt this SUPER short, magical, fantastical, Rumplestilskin retelling was incomplete but decided to put it out there as a basically unfinished, but very fun story.
It was cute. It was a neat (way more positive and less dark) retelling.
However, please don't let this be your first book of Britton's.
Chalk this one up to the author deciding to publish a story she included in an anthology years ago as a fundraiser (now out of print), that she said she'd love to expand into a full-length novel. I can understand her not wanting to waste the story. But also not having time to expand it right now because she's writing other books.
If you haven't read her books yet, I highly suggest Clairvior Castle and Hearts of Arizona series' ✨✨
April 21, 2025
The Rumpled Gentleman was such a fun book and a neat take on Rumplestilskin! I would love to see this turned into a full length novel or even a novella sequel - Orion and Elara are so fun and even with this being a quick read their chemistry was *chefs kiss*
February 15, 2026
A fun short little retelling of Rumpelstiltskin with some magical/fantastical elements.
August 30, 2025
*3.5 stars
If one is looking for a unique take on Rumpelstiltskin, this is one I'd recommend. Was it the best version I've read? Perhaps not, but that's fine. The romance was quite sweet, I liked the loose historical fantasy, but overall I doubt I'll remember much about it in a year. I don't regret reading it, though, lol, so we'll take it as a win!
If one is looking for a unique take on Rumpelstiltskin, this is one I'd recommend. Was it the best version I've read? Perhaps not, but that's fine. The romance was quite sweet, I liked the loose historical fantasy, but overall I doubt I'll remember much about it in a year. I don't regret reading it, though, lol, so we'll take it as a win!
September 24, 2025
Content:
Profanity: None.
Violence: None. Just threats of violence, and one character is said to have 'dealt with' anyone who crosses him.
Sexual: Mild. Hand holding, head kisses, hugs, and eventual chaste kisses.
Triggers: Deals with parent who portrays dementia-like symptoms, causing great distress.
The thing I appreciated about the afterword in this, was the author saying sorry if things felt choppy. It was previously published in an anthology with a hard word count she had to stay under, and she says she's just not a short-story writer.
That helped me forgive the little things that annoyed me.
With that said and out of the way, this was so cute. I have hoped against hope to find more clean Victorian fairy tale retellings. There seem to be a fair few of Regency, but I love Victorian novels and the tone of them, and mixing them with fairy tales makes me happy. The author has said that in the far future she wants to expand and do more with the world introduced in this short story. I reaaallly hope she does!
It didn't have enough time to really set a true tone for the time or world. The two mains fell quickly in love (again they didn't have time) but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I could feel the author trying to get through the story and it made me hope she expands it to a novel someday like she said in the forward.
Elara and Orion are so cute. And my interested was piqued big-time by Callom the half-elf best friend. It seems like such a fun world we get a sneak peek of, and it's so short!
The book is really about a 3.5, but I rounded up (honestly after the author explained why some things felt shallow I was okay with rounding up).
Profanity: None.
Violence: None. Just threats of violence, and one character is said to have 'dealt with' anyone who crosses him.
Sexual: Mild. Hand holding, head kisses, hugs, and eventual chaste kisses.
Triggers: Deals with parent who portrays dementia-like symptoms, causing great distress.
The thing I appreciated about the afterword in this, was the author saying sorry if things felt choppy. It was previously published in an anthology with a hard word count she had to stay under, and she says she's just not a short-story writer.
That helped me forgive the little things that annoyed me.
With that said and out of the way, this was so cute. I have hoped against hope to find more clean Victorian fairy tale retellings. There seem to be a fair few of Regency, but I love Victorian novels and the tone of them, and mixing them with fairy tales makes me happy. The author has said that in the far future she wants to expand and do more with the world introduced in this short story. I reaaallly hope she does!
It didn't have enough time to really set a true tone for the time or world. The two mains fell quickly in love (again they didn't have time) but I enjoyed it nonetheless. I could feel the author trying to get through the story and it made me hope she expands it to a novel someday like she said in the forward.
Elara and Orion are so cute. And my interested was piqued big-time by Callom the half-elf best friend. It seems like such a fun world we get a sneak peek of, and it's so short!
The book is really about a 3.5, but I rounded up (honestly after the author explained why some things felt shallow I was okay with rounding up).
March 19, 2025
The Rumpled Gentleman is a magical Victorian era retelling of the Rumpelstiltskin fairytale. I thought this book was so creative and so clever! It was enchanting and very enjoyable.
I fell in love with Orion and Alara immediately and was completely invested in their story from beginning to end! Orion is chivalrous and Alara is lovely in every way! I loved the chemistry I could feel between them, their sweet interactions, and I loved that they were both full of goodness!
The magical world Sally created was amazing! I never knew what to expect next!
This is a novella that was originally published in an anthology collection. It is 108 pages, and is very intriguing and sweet.
The storyline was really fun and I loved seeing how the author put her own spin on the Rumpelstiltskin story. The setting in Victorian England made it very unique, and it was also so fun finding the little nods to the original fairytale throughout the book!
This book will give you a swoony and sweet romance, amazing characters, a beautiful setting, fun magical fantasy elements and a very happy and satisfying ending! If you’re looking for a fun fairytale retelling definitely check out this sweet novella. I really loved it.
Read for:
🤍Victorian England
🤍fantasy/magical elements
🤍fun storyline
🤍a sweet romance
🤍fairytale retelling
🤍endearing characters
🤍short and sweet read
.
.
.
Thank you to the author for the ebook copy. All opinions are my own.
Content: infidelity, kisses only
I fell in love with Orion and Alara immediately and was completely invested in their story from beginning to end! Orion is chivalrous and Alara is lovely in every way! I loved the chemistry I could feel between them, their sweet interactions, and I loved that they were both full of goodness!
The magical world Sally created was amazing! I never knew what to expect next!
This is a novella that was originally published in an anthology collection. It is 108 pages, and is very intriguing and sweet.
The storyline was really fun and I loved seeing how the author put her own spin on the Rumpelstiltskin story. The setting in Victorian England made it very unique, and it was also so fun finding the little nods to the original fairytale throughout the book!
This book will give you a swoony and sweet romance, amazing characters, a beautiful setting, fun magical fantasy elements and a very happy and satisfying ending! If you’re looking for a fun fairytale retelling definitely check out this sweet novella. I really loved it.
Read for:
🤍Victorian England
🤍fantasy/magical elements
🤍fun storyline
🤍a sweet romance
🤍fairytale retelling
🤍endearing characters
🤍short and sweet read
.
.
.
Thank you to the author for the ebook copy. All opinions are my own.
Content: infidelity, kisses only
March 12, 2025
I’ve been fascinated by Rumpelstiltskin since Shelley Duvall’s Faerie Tale Theatre in the 80s. Her Rumpelstiltskin episode is the only one I remember.
Oh how I longed to spin straw into gold. My childhood imagination ran wild.
This story was a perfect fairytale treat. A quick read that included nods to the original tale with a bonus of one of my favorite author’s added touches and the endearing connection between Elara and Orion. I couldn’t help but cheer them on, wondering how it would end. Courageous Elara and kindhearted Orion are a sweet pair.
Thank you to Sally Britton for the copy. All opinions are my own.
Oh how I longed to spin straw into gold. My childhood imagination ran wild.
This story was a perfect fairytale treat. A quick read that included nods to the original tale with a bonus of one of my favorite author’s added touches and the endearing connection between Elara and Orion. I couldn’t help but cheer them on, wondering how it would end. Courageous Elara and kindhearted Orion are a sweet pair.
Thank you to Sally Britton for the copy. All opinions are my own.
April 28, 2025
The Brief: Elara finds her father knee deep in trouble at the duke’s residence. She’s determined to find a way to escape the greedy duke who is expecting them to turn objects into gold. She receives help from the unexpected Orion.
The Debrief: This is a novella so it’s super short. There are things to still wonder about and the ending a bit open for interpretation. I liked it! I’ve never read a twist on the classic Rumplestilskin so I enjoyed this little story of magic, mystery, and a happily ever after romance.
The Rhyme: Elara welcomes Orion’s help and creates illusions to fool the Duke. Can she find a way to escape before the duke realizes it might all be
Sweet kissing only.
The Debrief: This is a novella so it’s super short. There are things to still wonder about and the ending a bit open for interpretation. I liked it! I’ve never read a twist on the classic Rumplestilskin so I enjoyed this little story of magic, mystery, and a happily ever after romance.
The Rhyme: Elara welcomes Orion’s help and creates illusions to fool the Duke. Can she find a way to escape before the duke realizes it might all be
Sweet kissing only.
March 28, 2025
How do you feel about fairytale retellings? They're kind of hit and miss for me. And Sally Britton's is a hit!
This is a remake of Rumplestilskin, but set in Victorian England. If you are familiar with Sally's writing, then you know she brings a certain elegance to her stories, and this one is no exception.
Short novella, short review, but I loved it.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
This is a remake of Rumplestilskin, but set in Victorian England. If you are familiar with Sally's writing, then you know she brings a certain elegance to her stories, and this one is no exception.
Short novella, short review, but I loved it.
~I was given a complimentary copy of this book. No positive review was required, and all opinions are my own.~
June 24, 2025
Um…not great. I have had some luck with this author and liked the teaser premise. I’m also a big fan or retelling. Not this one. Maybe if it hadn’t been a Novell so there was time to develop characters, the world, or the story. Disappointing.
March 8, 2025
It’s a charming novella, short and sweet. I really appreciated the author’s note at the end explaining the story of this novella coming to be and what her hopes and challenges were.
March 2, 2025
I am so glad that the author was able to release this story in ebook form. I had given up the thought of it. I did enjoy it, while it might have been better if it was more Flushed out, I thought it was short and sweet.
April 12, 2025
I was truly looking forward to this story. I really was. Rumplestiltskin is my favorite fairytale and I was truly looking forward to a great retelling. And this fell so flat.
I would have given it 1 star but the author acknowledged at the end of the book that there was a lot of potential that didn't happen. So I'll give her that.
This story really did have a lot of potential though. It was like half a story and only the good parts. The ideas were great, the overall idea was great! And I desperately wanted more. This story could have easily been 300+ pages. Instead it was an incredibly short novella that felt incomplete.
I truly truly TRULY wish she had waited on this book. I feel like she rushed it due to pressure (unnecessary pressure) and if had she taken the time to savor the story and let it come alive on its own time, it could have truly flourished into the retelling it deserved. The lack of character development, the lack of closure, the abrupt ending, it was all so sudden.
So 3 stars for the authors honesty because she completely recognizes that it feels incredibly incomplete. But overall, 1 star due to how disappointed I am in this retelling.
I would have given it 1 star but the author acknowledged at the end of the book that there was a lot of potential that didn't happen. So I'll give her that.
This story really did have a lot of potential though. It was like half a story and only the good parts. The ideas were great, the overall idea was great! And I desperately wanted more. This story could have easily been 300+ pages. Instead it was an incredibly short novella that felt incomplete.
I truly truly TRULY wish she had waited on this book. I feel like she rushed it due to pressure (unnecessary pressure) and if had she taken the time to savor the story and let it come alive on its own time, it could have truly flourished into the retelling it deserved. The lack of character development, the lack of closure, the abrupt ending, it was all so sudden.
So 3 stars for the authors honesty because she completely recognizes that it feels incredibly incomplete. But overall, 1 star due to how disappointed I am in this retelling.
April 5, 2025
The Rumpled Gentleman
by: Sally Britton
@authorsallybritton
-I give: 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~A Romantic Rumplestiltskin Retelling Full of Magic, Mystery, and a Deal That Changes Everything…
“Some battles are worth fighting, even against formidable foes like the Duke
of Sutton.”
-The Rumpled Gentleman, is a delightful, romantic, historical fantasy retelling of Rumplestiltskin. It is filled with intrigue, romance, and a heroine who refuses to be anyone’s pawn! If you enjoy stories where wit and courage are the strongest magic of all, than you will simply adore this wonderful short story, which also was originally included in the lovely anthology Magic and Miracles. With 108 pages in length, I thoroughly enjoyed the sweet romance, endearing characters, a beautiful setting in ‘reimagined Victorian world, the fun magical fantasy elements, and a happily ever after ending! The way dear @authorsallybritton has the ability to draw me completely into her dear story comes so easily but also with precise and loving care, is always such a delight. Themes of courage, determination, patience, friendship, trust, and love are weaved beautifully within. This short, but dear story is worth the sweet read!📚🙌🏻🩷✨
“No matter what is asked of you, listen to your heart. It will guide you true.”
-Content: infidelity, kisses only.
There’s a certain...clarity, that comes from aiding someone else.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“In your determination, I see something remarkable. It’s hard to turn away from that.”
#therumpledgentleman
#authorsallybritton
#shortbutdelightfulstory
#allaboutthebestreads
“I’m here for you. Not just for the plan, but for you.”
by: Sally Britton
@authorsallybritton
-I give: 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~A Romantic Rumplestiltskin Retelling Full of Magic, Mystery, and a Deal That Changes Everything…
“Some battles are worth fighting, even against formidable foes like the Duke
of Sutton.”
-The Rumpled Gentleman, is a delightful, romantic, historical fantasy retelling of Rumplestiltskin. It is filled with intrigue, romance, and a heroine who refuses to be anyone’s pawn! If you enjoy stories where wit and courage are the strongest magic of all, than you will simply adore this wonderful short story, which also was originally included in the lovely anthology Magic and Miracles. With 108 pages in length, I thoroughly enjoyed the sweet romance, endearing characters, a beautiful setting in ‘reimagined Victorian world, the fun magical fantasy elements, and a happily ever after ending! The way dear @authorsallybritton has the ability to draw me completely into her dear story comes so easily but also with precise and loving care, is always such a delight. Themes of courage, determination, patience, friendship, trust, and love are weaved beautifully within. This short, but dear story is worth the sweet read!📚🙌🏻🩷✨
“No matter what is asked of you, listen to your heart. It will guide you true.”
-Content: infidelity, kisses only.
There’s a certain...clarity, that comes from aiding someone else.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“In your determination, I see something remarkable. It’s hard to turn away from that.”
#therumpledgentleman
#authorsallybritton
#shortbutdelightfulstory
#allaboutthebestreads
“I’m here for you. Not just for the plan, but for you.”
April 23, 2025
Fairytale retellings are some of my favorite especially if they’re set in a magical, steampunk, Victorian, England. I thoroughly enjoyed this delightful retelling of Rumpelstiltskin from Sally Britton! The Rumpled Gentleman is a creative, romantic twist on the familiar tale.
Elara Millstone is caught in a horrible predicament. Her grief stricken, delusional father has appeared before the powerful Duke of Sutton making impossible claims of turning straw to gold. Though Elara tries to plead her case, the greedy duke wants results, & her life & her father’s life are on the line.
Orion is the illegitimate son of the duke who wants to help Elara. As he works on his own inventions to finally free himself from the duke’s grasp, he devises ways to secretly help Elara fulfill the impossible task. Elara finds herself falling for the masked man with whom she makes bargain after bargain until she can finally escape from the duke’s demands.
This delightful retelling was such a fun, quick read. It’s a novella which originally appeared in the Magic & Miracles anthology & is now available on its own. I loved the original twist where the “Rumpelstiltskin” character turns out to be the hero. I loved the magical, steampunk feel, & the great world building. It’s a world I’d love to return to.
Loved Orion & Elara! Elara is a determined, practical, self-motivated heroine. Orion is the kind, mysterious hero. Though it’s a quick read, there was a lovely thread of romance woven throughout that completely drew me in. I’d love to see their story continued or more from this world.
It’s a fun, enjoyable story easily read in one sitting. Highly recommend to steampunk or historical fantasy romance fans.
Elara Millstone is caught in a horrible predicament. Her grief stricken, delusional father has appeared before the powerful Duke of Sutton making impossible claims of turning straw to gold. Though Elara tries to plead her case, the greedy duke wants results, & her life & her father’s life are on the line.
Orion is the illegitimate son of the duke who wants to help Elara. As he works on his own inventions to finally free himself from the duke’s grasp, he devises ways to secretly help Elara fulfill the impossible task. Elara finds herself falling for the masked man with whom she makes bargain after bargain until she can finally escape from the duke’s demands.
This delightful retelling was such a fun, quick read. It’s a novella which originally appeared in the Magic & Miracles anthology & is now available on its own. I loved the original twist where the “Rumpelstiltskin” character turns out to be the hero. I loved the magical, steampunk feel, & the great world building. It’s a world I’d love to return to.
Loved Orion & Elara! Elara is a determined, practical, self-motivated heroine. Orion is the kind, mysterious hero. Though it’s a quick read, there was a lovely thread of romance woven throughout that completely drew me in. I’d love to see their story continued or more from this world.
It’s a fun, enjoyable story easily read in one sitting. Highly recommend to steampunk or historical fantasy romance fans.
March 31, 2025
This Victorian era retelling of Rumpelstiltskin was a perfectly lovely read!
I’m always intrigued by a Rumpelstiltskin retelling, largely because the original fairytale is basically a compilation of plot holes and I’m always excited to see how each author solves those. I loved Britton’s take on the fairytale. Elara (Millstone - I loved the nod to the miller portion of the fairytale coming in the form of their last name!) and her father living in a magical Victorian England was the perfect setting. Victorian England has just the right amount of darkness for a Duke ruthlessly seeking gold via alchemy to feel realistic, and the presence of magic woven throughout the story makes the belief in an ability to spin straw into gold plausible. My favorite aspect is the swapping of the villain and romantic “hero” of the story. It never feels quite right for the king - cruel and greedy as he is - to get to marry the miller’s daughter, and I loved that in this version, the mmc is not the person demanding the gold!
Thank you to the author for the copy! All opinions are my own.
I’m always intrigued by a Rumpelstiltskin retelling, largely because the original fairytale is basically a compilation of plot holes and I’m always excited to see how each author solves those. I loved Britton’s take on the fairytale. Elara (Millstone - I loved the nod to the miller portion of the fairytale coming in the form of their last name!) and her father living in a magical Victorian England was the perfect setting. Victorian England has just the right amount of darkness for a Duke ruthlessly seeking gold via alchemy to feel realistic, and the presence of magic woven throughout the story makes the belief in an ability to spin straw into gold plausible. My favorite aspect is the swapping of the villain and romantic “hero” of the story. It never feels quite right for the king - cruel and greedy as he is - to get to marry the miller’s daughter, and I loved that in this version, the mmc is not the person demanding the gold!
Thank you to the author for the copy! All opinions are my own.
April 1, 2025
"The Rumpled Gentleman" is beautiful and charming! This Victorian-era fairy tale retelling is beautifully written, emotionally deep, and so much fun! I loved meeting and getting to know these characters. It was lovely to see how much Elara and her father care about and love each other. The interactions between the MMC and the FMC are so sweet! The characters feel three-dimensional and real and the romance is sweet and swoony with perfect chemistry! This author has done wonderful work making their friendship and romance feel real and in developing that romance throughout a story that is just over 100 pages. The author's writing style is smooth and sparkling with wit and beauty! I loved reading about Elara's connection to nature. "The Rumpled Gentleman" is truly a magical must read! 5 stars
Thank you very much to the author Sally Britton and her PA Marilee for the great opportunity of being a part of the ARC Team again and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
Thank you very much to the author Sally Britton and her PA Marilee for the great opportunity of being a part of the ARC Team again and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
March 15, 2025
If you like fairy-tales, historical fiction, and a dash of fae magic, you will LOVE this gem of a novella!
Would I have liked 100 more pages of character development and world building? Sure! Yet, it delivered a romance that was completely believable and sweet characters who will do anything for those they care about.
I think it could also be argued that the characters were a little 'too perfect'. However, this IS a fairy tale retelling, and they were just so adorable I easily forgave them :)
Finally, it hits all the right notes with it being a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin:
A deranged father boasting that straw can be turned into gold (I love how she made the father into a sympathetic figure)
A greedy king (*cough* duke) that gives the daughter a room full of straw
And a mysterious man who promises to make the impossible a possibility.
I love how she took these things but made them into a unique story. I cannot tell you how much I loved this sweet little story!
Would I have liked 100 more pages of character development and world building? Sure! Yet, it delivered a romance that was completely believable and sweet characters who will do anything for those they care about.
I think it could also be argued that the characters were a little 'too perfect'. However, this IS a fairy tale retelling, and they were just so adorable I easily forgave them :)
Finally, it hits all the right notes with it being a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin:
A deranged father boasting that straw can be turned into gold (I love how she made the father into a sympathetic figure)
A greedy king (*cough* duke) that gives the daughter a room full of straw
And a mysterious man who promises to make the impossible a possibility.
I love how she took these things but made them into a unique story. I cannot tell you how much I loved this sweet little story!
December 21, 2025
This novella was 4.25 stars for me. There were multiple “awe” moments in this as the romance was so incredibly sweet. If you are looking for a feel good quick read with round characters and a happy ending, this is the story for you!
I liked the representation of mental decline that Elara’s father had, that felt pretty unique. I wish there was more of a magical element to this story but it was still great as is. I liked the length and how the story wrapped up. There is a little magic in this but it is very soft magic and more of just a dash.
I would read more from this author if her other stories had full blown magic in them but as far as I know everything else she has read is just historical romance.
The writing was great for this novella as well as the storytelling, so if something non fantasy esque really strikes my fancy for historical romance maybe I will look more into her writing!
I liked the representation of mental decline that Elara’s father had, that felt pretty unique. I wish there was more of a magical element to this story but it was still great as is. I liked the length and how the story wrapped up. There is a little magic in this but it is very soft magic and more of just a dash.
I would read more from this author if her other stories had full blown magic in them but as far as I know everything else she has read is just historical romance.
The writing was great for this novella as well as the storytelling, so if something non fantasy esque really strikes my fancy for historical romance maybe I will look more into her writing!
March 14, 2025
This was such a fun retelling of Rumplestiltskin!!!!! It was a beautiful balance of historical expectations and fantasy imaginations. Almost fairytale meets steampunk.
Elara’s father is in mental decline and ends up telling a dangerous Duke that he can turn flowers into gold. Lara is caught up in it as she tries to help her father. Orion is trying to change the world and finds himself drawn to help Elara.
Highlights:
Masked ball garden encounter
The shadowy stranger
I love Elara for being smart and resourceful. I love how she wants to help people.
I love Orion because he is kind and empathetic. I love how he wants to improve the world.
“She didn’t have time for a ball. Not when she had to come up with a way to either turn worthless weeds into gold or delay the duke long enough to form a plan of escape.”
Elara’s father is in mental decline and ends up telling a dangerous Duke that he can turn flowers into gold. Lara is caught up in it as she tries to help her father. Orion is trying to change the world and finds himself drawn to help Elara.
Highlights:
Masked ball garden encounter
The shadowy stranger
I love Elara for being smart and resourceful. I love how she wants to help people.
I love Orion because he is kind and empathetic. I love how he wants to improve the world.
“She didn’t have time for a ball. Not when she had to come up with a way to either turn worthless weeds into gold or delay the duke long enough to form a plan of escape.”
March 14, 2025
A wonderful story of hard work and a touch of fairy magic
This is a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin with a twist. Elara has the ability to enhance the beauty of flowers and she is using it in her work at a florist shop to support herself and her father who is having some mental problems. One day, while she is at work, her father approaches a greedy duke telling him Elara can turn plants to gold. When she goes to rescue her father, she finds herself being held captive along with her father so she can make gold. That night she to attend a ball where she meets Orion, the son of the duke, who is working to get out of his father’s control. Orion feels the need to rescue Elara and her father but he cannot do it alone. It will take hard work from Elara and Orion, listening to the advice of others, a magic portal, and more than a little fae or fairy magic. A great retelling.
This is a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin with a twist. Elara has the ability to enhance the beauty of flowers and she is using it in her work at a florist shop to support herself and her father who is having some mental problems. One day, while she is at work, her father approaches a greedy duke telling him Elara can turn plants to gold. When she goes to rescue her father, she finds herself being held captive along with her father so she can make gold. That night she to attend a ball where she meets Orion, the son of the duke, who is working to get out of his father’s control. Orion feels the need to rescue Elara and her father but he cannot do it alone. It will take hard work from Elara and Orion, listening to the advice of others, a magic portal, and more than a little fae or fairy magic. A great retelling.
April 29, 2025
This book was delightful and true to Sally Britton’s writing and regency. I adored the slight magic element and twist on Rumplestiltskin.
"No matter what is asked of you, listen to your heart. It will guide you true."
Orion was super sweet even though he had such a hard time. He was always looking out for Elara and taking care of her. I love her passion to help her dad and try to prove something right. She's already had so much loss.
"Sometimes, Elara, we encounter situations - or people that compel us to act."
The masquerade ball was a great scene, just as it should be. The magical element was small, but powerful and this version of rumplestilskin is much better than any! This really was a delightful retelling!
"Because we must. Because if we don't, I will lose you. And I could not bear that, my darling. Not when I have barely found you."
This novella is a perfect, quick read and doesn’t feel like the story went too fast. You won't regret reading it!
"No matter what is asked of you, listen to your heart. It will guide you true."
Orion was super sweet even though he had such a hard time. He was always looking out for Elara and taking care of her. I love her passion to help her dad and try to prove something right. She's already had so much loss.
"Sometimes, Elara, we encounter situations - or people that compel us to act."
The masquerade ball was a great scene, just as it should be. The magical element was small, but powerful and this version of rumplestilskin is much better than any! This really was a delightful retelling!
"Because we must. Because if we don't, I will lose you. And I could not bear that, my darling. Not when I have barely found you."
This novella is a perfect, quick read and doesn’t feel like the story went too fast. You won't regret reading it!
August 14, 2025
I really enjoyed this novella! This is a very sweet fairytale retelling set in Victorian England. The fantastical elements were well woven throughout the plot, and I appreciated that there wasn't massive amounts of worldbuilding needed to explain everything. Elara and Orion are so adorable together. They have fabulous chemistry, and I just adored the way he slowly fell in love with her. They share a common goal (and a common enemy), and the tension surrounding their challenges kept me turning the pages. The side characters were really fun (I hope we see more of them someday!), and the blend of magic and reality (history) really was so perfectly executed for such a short story. If the story is ever expanded, I hope to see the Duke's downfall on page, mostly because I'm petty and he deserves it, but it's a cute, sweet read as is
March 17, 2025
I loved this fairy tale retelling of Rumplestiltskin. What a great twist on the classic story! There is a greedy, power-hungry antagonist, an inventor with a huge heart, and an industrious, hardworking, caring heroine. This is a novella, so it is a quick read and one that I couldn’t put down once I began reading it. You are sure to love the following things in the story:
magical creatures
mysterious house
intriguing workroom
firestones
green fingers
masquerade ball
helping friends
I highly recommend reading this story. Readers of all ages will enjoy Orion and Elara’s story.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions are my own. A positive review was not required.
magical creatures
mysterious house
intriguing workroom
firestones
green fingers
masquerade ball
helping friends
I highly recommend reading this story. Readers of all ages will enjoy Orion and Elara’s story.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions are my own. A positive review was not required.
March 13, 2025
The Rumpled Gentleman is a fairy tale retelling of Rumplestiltskin. It is set in London in the 1800's, with a confused father who is convinced that his alchemy can produce gold. A duke finds out about his claims, and forces him to spend time in his castle until he can produce him the gold that the duke desires. His young adult daughter finds out about his quandry and works to free her father from her commitment. Filled with magic, a touch of romance, and sheer willpower, this story will take you on a journey you were least expecting. I enjoyed every minute of it!
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
April 13, 2025
This novella is a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin's fairy tale in a fictional Victorian England where magic and fairies exist.
As always with this author, the book is well written and the romance is sweet. I wasn't too thrilled with the story, but that's probably my fault. I like reading fairy tales (or legends and folk stories in general), I've read plenty of fantasy (although, admittedly, most of it was years ago) and I've also read my share of historical romance. So, separated, all the elements in this book appeal to me. However, I wasn't convinced with the mix, it was somehow incongruous.
On the positive side, one of the elements that I most dislike from the original tale (that the miller's daughter ends up married to the greedy guy who imprisoned and threatened her in the first place) is avoided here. There's also a background story bringing forward some environmental concerns, although I don't know if that was included on purpose.
As always with this author, the book is well written and the romance is sweet. I wasn't too thrilled with the story, but that's probably my fault. I like reading fairy tales (or legends and folk stories in general), I've read plenty of fantasy (although, admittedly, most of it was years ago) and I've also read my share of historical romance. So, separated, all the elements in this book appeal to me. However, I wasn't convinced with the mix, it was somehow incongruous.
On the positive side, one of the elements that I most dislike from the original tale (that the miller's daughter ends up married to the greedy guy who imprisoned and threatened her in the first place) is avoided here. There's also a background story bringing forward some environmental concerns, although I don't know if that was included on purpose.
April 10, 2025
This was a sweet story. It is a Victorian era romance with a very light fantasy thread. I personally would've liked the fantasy to be a little stronger, and I would've liked more from the hidden identity plot as well. However, I'm sure many others will enjoy it more than I did for those exact reasons. I liked how Orion went out of his way to protect Elara after her father had gotten into a tricky predicament. He was such a cinnamon roll when it came to caring for her. Definitely pick this one up if you're in the mood for a quick, clean read.
Thanks to the author for the review copy! All opinions are my own.
Thanks to the author for the review copy! All opinions are my own.
July 29, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
What I wanted just wasn't possible in 100 pages, but I can see the potential in this and I did enjoy it. I love fantasy being incorporated in victoran eras, even if its in a small way so this book was fun because of that.
I liked the ideas it had, but they were understandably underdeveloped and parts felt rushed. The author's note mentioned maybe expanding this into a full length story one day and I honestly look forward to that.
What I wanted just wasn't possible in 100 pages, but I can see the potential in this and I did enjoy it. I love fantasy being incorporated in victoran eras, even if its in a small way so this book was fun because of that.
I liked the ideas it had, but they were understandably underdeveloped and parts felt rushed. The author's note mentioned maybe expanding this into a full length story one day and I honestly look forward to that.
January 12, 2026
Rated G: audiobook
Narrator: Maria Nicola Johnson👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
This got two stars because it was a somewhat clever retelling of Rumpelstiltskin.
Though I see the reason for it in the spinning of gold, I did not enjoy the fairy/Faye/elf take on the story as that is not a favorite genre.
And the two falling in love over such a short period of time with such little interaction was a bit much.
Just OK overall.
Narrator: Maria Nicola Johnson👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
This got two stars because it was a somewhat clever retelling of Rumpelstiltskin.
Though I see the reason for it in the spinning of gold, I did not enjoy the fairy/Faye/elf take on the story as that is not a favorite genre.
And the two falling in love over such a short period of time with such little interaction was a bit much.
Just OK overall.
March 13, 2025
satisfying
What a fantastic story! It was a clean, uplifting magical steampunk fantasy with a happy ending, and while it was based on Rumpelstiltskin, it had a hint of Beauty and the Beast and King Midas in there too. It had a sweet happy ending and I loved the way the characters solved their problems! I was totally satisfied with this book!
What a fantastic story! It was a clean, uplifting magical steampunk fantasy with a happy ending, and while it was based on Rumpelstiltskin, it had a hint of Beauty and the Beast and King Midas in there too. It had a sweet happy ending and I loved the way the characters solved their problems! I was totally satisfied with this book!
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