The Cornish Princess: Goldenchild Prophesy Series, Book 1

The Goldenchild Prophecy #1

by Tanya Anne Crosby

Said to be a changeling child left to the King and Queen of Cornwall, Gwendolyn is "blessed" at her cradle by three Fae a prophecy for her future, a gift of "Reflection," and a golden mane-quite literally, every lock of her hair will turn to gold, only provided it is cut by her one true love.

Yet no one understands more than Gwendolyn that her blessings are actually curses. Any man who gazes upon her will see his own heart reflected in her countenance, and depending upon his virtue, she is the loveliest woman in all the land… or the most hideous. It's a cruel jest of the capricious Fae, for unless a man's heart be true, Gwendolyn is destined to be coveted for her crown, but despised for her face.

To make matters worse, Gwendolyn's ailing father is desperate for an alliance with King Brutus of Loegria. "The Romans are coming!" and according to the Goldenchild Prophecy, only by uniting their dragon banners can they stem the Red Tide. Offered to Brutus's ambitious son, Prince Locrinus, Gwendolyn's heart is tempted by a mysterious, maddening half-blood Fae who she can never wed if she is to fulfill her crib side prophecy.

Contains mature themes.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Fae, Historical, Fantasy Romance

Audible Audio

First published October 26, 2021

About the author

Tanya Anne Crosby is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of thirty novels. She has been featured in magazines, such as People, Romantic Times and Publisher’s Weekly, and her books have been translated into eight languages. Her first novel was published in 1992 by Avon Books, where Tanya was hailed as “one of Avon’s fastest rising stars.” Her fourth book was chosen to launch the company’s Avon Romantic Treasure imprint.
Known for stories charged with emotion and humor and filled with flawed characters Tanya is an award-winning author, journalist, and editor, and her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She and her writer husband split their time between Charleston, SC, where she was raised, and northern Michigan, where the couple make their home.

Reviews

[Shannon DaRin · Rating 2 out of 5]

**2.0**

So I really did try with this but it’s the first DNF for me in years. I made it 55% and had enough. I’m sad because I really wanted to like this. There were so many info dumps that didn’t add anything to the story. I’m not just talking about world building either. It would go on and on when I just wanted to get back to what was happening. And that’s the other thing… nothing was happening. I also disliked the MFC. She was immature, whiney and childish. I don’t mind a slower start but when you dislike the main character and hate the writing style it’s hard to keep going. This is a no from me.

[Stephanie Herron · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an engrossing story that has a mystical theme running through it. It is a blend of fantasy, mystical and romance that tells the tale of Gwendolyn of Cornwall. The reader is drawn into the story by all of the different characters and the building of excitement and action. There are heart warming moments as well as times of tragedy. The tale is one that has me ready to read more and learn what happens next in the prophecy. My only quibble is that there were a lot of words that require using context clues to figure out what they mean. I look forward to the next book in the series.

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: The Cornish Princess
By Tanya Anne Crosby

Series: The Goldenchild Prophecy, Book #1

Publisher: Oliver Heber Books

Release Date: October 24, 2021

Overall Rating: 5/5 Five Stars

Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags

Heat Rating: There is no sexual contact in this novel though they do describe the male anatomy.

11th Century BC
Pretania-Ancient Britain

This is Gwendolyn of Cornwall, Princess of the Dumnonii story…it begins on the seventh evening after her birth. This is where she is visited by two ancient fae creatures who generously gave her very specific gifts, yet her mother and her maid Demelza were secretly watching too….the saga begins here.

Queen Esweld-Queen consort and princess of Prydein’s newborn daughter was visited by two fae creatures. This was shortly after Gwendolyn’s birth, now because of the fae creature’s visit, her mother, the Queen, always suspected her daughter was a changeling! Now her mother her mother forces the Princess to go through all of these unnecessary, but difficult and painful tests to prove she was not a changeling. After seven years her father, King Cornelius stopped the testing, as enough was enough, Gwendolyn never felt the nurturing or love as most daughters feel from her mother. Her mother just seemed to criticize and put her down and never felt the love as most daughters do. It really damaged Gwendolyn’s self esteem too, luckily her father the King had always in her corner.

As a Princess, she has a shadow which is a guard, but she is also her father’s only heir-so she has to train with the sword just like a man. The only thing Gwendolyn wants is a lady’s maid, she wants to pick her dear friend Ely and her shadows sister, but her mother keeps refusing her. They also are not happy with her shadow who is also her friend Bryn. They see she takes advantage of him and now she might have a marriage prospect who is Prince Locrinus which is King Brutus’s son.

King Cornelius soon replace’s her shadow Bryn with the annoying half fae-sidhe Málik Danann! All because this betraying fae reported Gwendolyn and Bryn’s behavior to her mother the Queen! Now Málik was supposed to be Bryn’s friend so Princess Gwendolyn sees this as a huge betrayal! However, it was her father, the King, the one who always sided with Gwendolyn who demoted Bryn and was replaced with Málik. Due to her fathers failing health and if married she would live in her husband’s Kingdom most likely. She soon starts to understand it must be someone who will protect her with his life!

Princess knew her duties and that she had to fulfill her destiny and join their dragon banners. It was part of her ancient prophecy and her duty to serve Cornwall and its people as her fathers heir. Then there are some mysterious deaths that start to happen and Málik saves her life on more than one occasion. As they both begin to see each other in different lights as all fae’s are beautiful but he treats her like an equal and someone who really matters. She begins to understand her fathers decision to pick Málik, yet a mutual desire with both Gwendolyn and Málik builds. They both know this is a forbidden attraction which has to stop before it grows and hearts are broken.

Gwendolyn feels she must give her marriage to a stranger no matter who he is a chance, but will she be happy when her heart is somewhere else? Can a fae and a human even have a chance at love? Will this lost Princess be able to fix her past mistakes with Bryn. Will Gwendolyn help her friend Ely find the perfect husband? Will she ever be able to open her mother’s heart and heal her ailing father? Will they find out who is behind all these murders? Plus then shocking surprise ending that absolutely blew me away! A book readers don’t want to miss!

Holy Cow! This is one of my all time favorite books I have read this year! It’s no wonder I have been reading this author for nearly thirty years! Tanya Anne Crosby weaves a beautiful historical fantasy with a true, honorable, noble Princess, in Britain’s royal history. History fans like myself will absolutely love this novel too, yet lovers of the fantasy and paranormal genre will also cherish this brilliantly written novel.

Turning each page, I found myself so involved and engaged in each and every written word in this brilliant story. It had me spellbound, mesmerized and totally enchanted as I was swept away with so many twists and turns in this extraordinary story! It is a riveting, awe-inspiring, intriguing, fast-paced, action packed, page turning adventure that I seriously could not put down! I do warn readers this is not a happily ever after ending romance and has a bit of a cliff hanger too. This just makes me really look forward to reading the second book in this spectacular series, called “The Queen’s Huntsman,” the next book in this phenomenal series. I actually love novels written this format-with the same characters in the next book. I remember years ago when the deceased author, Rosemary Rogers, wrote all those Steve and Ginny books which were always so marvelous and entertaining to read!

Tanya Anne Crosby storytelling ability is absolutely magical and this twisted ending definitely put my stomach in knots that made me totally gasp! This novel is an absolute masterpiece and definitely a book I will re-read and visit again! I found it very addictive and can’t wait for the next book A book I highly and unequivocally absolutely recommend!


The Goldenchild Prophecy
1)The Cornish Princess-tbr 10/26/2021
2)The Queen’s Huntsman
3)The Forgotten Prince

Disclaimer: I received an advance beta copy from Oliver-Heber publishing. I voluntarily agreed to do an honest, fair review and blog. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.

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[Deana Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
The story of Gwendolyn Princess of Cornwall who while an infant is visited by two Fae creatures and given their “blessings” 1) only one with a true heart will see her beauty 2) her hair will turn a brilliant gold when cut by her true love. Seen by her mother the Queen and her nursemaid the Fae also bestow a prophecy and leave a quandary as to whether Gwendolyn is her human child still or a changeling they left, causing lingering complications in their relationship.
Part I of a trilogy this book takes us from Gwendolyn’s birth to adulthood.
I loved Gwendolyn’s growth as her journey unfolds. From being carefree and reckless, to one who sees the consequences of her actions and must now make difficult choices for the benefit of her kingdom.
An intricate and emotional tale that leads you through an exciting world. Twists and turns throughout the book that keep you guessing, and full of surprises even until the end!
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jenna · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 stars

I like this writer and have read several of her books. Unfortunately, this one wasn't for me. And it's the first of a trilogy. It was too long. After a few chapters, I could tell that Gwen's story was going to be drawn out over the three books and quite honestly, I didn't have the patience. I didn't connect with the characters. It was also obvious that Prince Loc probably wouldn't turn out to be her true love. And what of Ely & Malik? I wasn't sure about them.
Lots of "ancient Cornish vocabulary" used that I found distracting. It was long and I got bored.
If you're a fan of fantasy and the Arthurian/Boudicca legend stories this would be for you.
While it wasn't my cup of tea, it doesn't dissuade me from reading another book by this writer.

Thank you to Booksprout & Oliver Herber books for a copy of the ARC.

[Naomi Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cornish Princess by Tanya Anne Crosby is book 1 in The Golden Child Prophecy series. The Fae blessed Gwendolyn 2 gifts, which weigh heavy on her. As the only heir to Cornish King Corineus, her fate is sealed. She must do her duty and fulfill the ancient prophecy by uniting the 2 dragon banners… His Dragon. Her colors. Their house. If not, the land will run red with the blood of her people. But fate is not always kind and Gwendolyn must find her way in a world full of treachery and deceit. Tanya weaves together family dynamics, mystery, murder, romance, an awesome cast of characters with just the right amount of magic to make this tale an awesome read. I didn’t want the story to end, yet could not put it down!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first part of the story about the Goldenchild Prophecy. Gwendolyn is the heir to Cornwall and the subject of the prophecy. She must marry Prince Locrinus and unite the banners of King Corineus and King Brutus. But more is going on and she needs to solve a murder and find out what is happening. This book kept my interest from the start to the ending and now I cannot wait for the next book to come out. I would recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cornish Princess is a big departure from your typical medieval romance, and I liked the fresh approach. As others have pointed out, it is not primarily a romance and it is part of a trilogy that does not resolve the plot until the third book. The heroine Gwendolyn, is a strong princess who must train to have the skills of a warrior to be able to someday lead her people as their queen. This is a heavy burden for a 17 year old, but people had to grow up fast in those dangerous times. There is plenty of danger, intrigue and greed in this tale, along with a dose of magic and myth. I especially loved the curse put on her as a baby that said that her countenance would appear beautiful or hideous to others depending on whether they were true to he. It was almost reminiscent of Lord of the Rings with fairies, curses, magic and warring factions. It is hard for Gwendolyn to know who she can trust outside of her immediate family when she is betrothed to a prince she knows little about and tries hard to learn to like and maybe love out of duty to her kingdom. The book has many unexpected twists and turns, some violent, and Gwendolyn must find her own path since her father is in failing health and her mother has always been aloof. The only thing I didn't care for were all the foreign words, phrases, people and places that had no definition. It made the book more authentic in a way but also a bit frustrating. There is plenty of atmosphere and authenticity throughout the heroic tale though and Gwendolyn is a compelling heroine along with her fairy "shadow" bodyguard.

[Anne Gregor · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Cornish Princess unearths the skeletal remains of bygone history, beginning with Brutus of Troy's banishment, his landing and settling in what is now Britain, and his eventual family ties with the Princess of Cornwall. In the author's own words, "This is NOT a romance. It is a romantic fantasy," though I feel The Goldenchild Prophecy series is far more hybrid than that. When an author passionately researches the past while gently inserting an entirely new perspective... the words, the story, beg to be read. Crosby delves into the spread of Rome's Red Tide while drawing on the magical legend of the Tuatha Dé Danann, with hints of Sleeping Beauty's fairy godmothers, sprinkles of Rumpelstiltskin, traitors, mysterious murders, politics, and currents of familial relations carrying a deadly undertow of secrets. There are Druids, witches, faekind, and piskies. Battles, treaties, and takeovers. Faith, friendship, and love. As I stated earlier... The Cornish Princess is not simply a romantic fantasy. There is nothing simple about it. The characters are complex and do not divulge their thoughts or purpose easily. Crosby has created a balanced, multifaceted genre, one where history's battle cry is tangible while fingers of fable and fantasy pull and tug the unwary.

Kris
Whiskey & Wit Book Reviews

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I am Gwendolyn of Cornwall, princess of the Dumnonii, and this is my tale…”

Thus starts a thrilling new saga by a true princess of medieval story writing! A bit of Fae magic, a bit of Arthurian aura, wrap around a nugget of British history that has almost disappeared into the mist of time, to give start to an interesting series that promises to be a classic. The nugget of history: a brilliant warrior, the daughter of a king, and her marriage to the son of a man whose ancestry does disappear into time. Foreboding comments and events in this first volume, seem to set stage for some dark action in future books, and increase our empathy for Gwendolyn.
I found myself totally immersed in the story, which pauses at a reasonable break in the action. (I am grateful that the book is being released as it is written, rather than having to wait until all the parts are written. Others may prefer reading the saga non-stop—just saying!) In the style of a fairytale in some respects, this story will appeal to, and be appropriate for all ages.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Melody · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tanya Anne Crosby's story of Princess Gwendolyn of Cornwall is full of complex, vibrant, and intriguing characters and is so engaging that I found that I was desperate to return home to read more chapters. The book is not explicitly a romance novel although there is a love story within the tale. This book is absolutely appropriate for readers 12 & up. I also appreciate that princess Gwendolyn, our story's lead, rarely finds herself in flighty/weak moments but rather is shown as a young woman with morals, ethics, a curious nature, and strong conviction. The book is written mostly from the POV of the princess.

As a fan of the fantasy genre I thoroughly enjoyed the sprinkling of magic and fae throughout this book. It is most definitely a historical novel yet has a bit of the fantastical in the tale. I also love the mysteries in the plot and that the book gives conclusion to some plot lines yet leaves others unfinished. It is not fully a cliff hanger and yet I am eager to continue the adventure in book two.

If you are a fan of authors like Sarah J. Maas, Kristin Cashore, Leigh Bardugo, and Julie Kagawa then I think that you will really enjoy The Cornish Princess.

[JenReviews4U · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were plenty of warnings to start this book - it is fantasy, it is grim in some ways and it does not have a HEA. So why should you read it? If you like epic fantasy with a bit of dark thrown in along the likes of some of the biggest most well-known novels/movies ever made- then read this!
This is not my genre of story I like to read but I have read the author's historical romance novels and loved them so decided to give it a try. I think the scope of her writing ability in this far surpassed her romance novels. I was amazed at how in-depth, well-researched, and thorough this novel was.
The only thing I found difficult was the many names, places, and new words used- it was hard to keep them all straight and read with any sort of understanding. This is not an easy read, it is very complex which only further serves to show how good this author is. The story does not end in this book but will continue in the next.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jan Goodard · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is quite the epic tale by an author who does extensive research into the subject, culture and time period of her story. Of course, like most authors she needs to use some literary license to allow the story to jump out of the book. Ms. Crosby's characters are vivid, not always likeable, more true to actual human nature. I like female characters especially the principle to be intelligent, independent, and unafraid to use her instincts. Princess Gwendolyn is all this and more. She can be a bit of a royal snob at times insisting on her own way, which does get her into trouble a few times. The first third of the book moved a bit slowly, but was important to setting up the rest of the story. The remainder was very fast placed with one incident occurring after another. Although Gwen does not like her new bodyguard, she comes to admire him. That leaves her in a dilemma. Does she follow her heart or do her duty to keep her country safe? The ending is a little ambiguous, the final sentences could be interpreted more than one way. However, there is a book two, which I hope completes the story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been hearing wonderful things about Tanya Anne Crosby's books and was excited to have the opportunity to read her newest release, The Cornish Princess. I now can see what everyone has been raving about. This begins her The Goldenchild Prophecy series and it is full of what I love to read in a book. There is history, action, adventure, realistic characters and beautiful romance. I loved every single page.

I am giving The Cornish Princess a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading historical romance. I can not wait to get my hands on book two from The Goldenchild Prophecy series, The Queen's Huntsman, to see where the author’s imagination takes her readers to next.

I received a digital copy of The Cornish Princess from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prophecy's, Ancient Lore, and Mystery
A new series and new genre for me and what an incredible story it is.
An intriguing story of the Cornish Princess Gwendolyn from days
of old Celtic lore and beyond. She has a mind of her own.
I love her character along with her Shadow.
We meet her betrothal to Prince Loc.
Lots of mystical happenings, characters from ancient lands,
druid belief's, the Fae elf ( Malik which is my favorite character),
a mystery, family, deceptions, murderous treachery .and more
A 3 book series. The covers are beautiful. This story is enchanting.
Will we find out if the prophecy comes true? I will definitely read
the rest of the series.
I did receive a copy for my honest opinion.



.

[Avid reader Di]

Fabulous trip to the past in this new series
by Avid Reader Di

This is a wonderful story filled with interesting characters and a beautiful setting. Gwendolyn is a fascinating character with an interesting history. She is not your typical pampered princess and does have a mind of her own. The other main character Malik is a bit of a mystery but I hopes he shows up in later books.
The dialogue was interesting with lots of new names and groups of people…a whole new world to explore with Gwendolyn.
The setting was very well described , as a reader I could really visualize all of them in my mind.There is good constrast in settings as well to keep the reader intrigued.
The plot is the best part of this story, it really pulls the reader in and never disappoints. I am not going to summarize since it would spoil the book for future readers. I did receive an advance copy of this book and freely give this honest review.

[Melissa Cannito · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely spectacular beginning to this epic collection. Meeting Gwendolyn and immersing myself in her story from birth until her marriage was truly remarkable. Some of the characters' descriptions I have read in other novels, so the world of the Fae is not new to me.
While only seventeen years old, Gwen has not matured enough to understand how her relationships must also grow. She becomes betrothed, loses her childhood friend and "Shadow" and meets a man, Malik, she thinks in Fae. As her adventures with Malik take her into danger, she learns how to evolve her relations and grow stronger through her experiences.
If you are interested in strong women and the history of ancient Briton at the beginning of the Roman conquest, this novel is for you.

[Mia Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tanya Anne Crosby’s “The Cornish Princess” The Goldenchild Prophecy Series Book 1 is phenomenal!

Wow! What away to start a new series! This is an epic, exquisite and breathtaking tale of Gwendolyn of Cornwall, the Golden Child of Prophecy and her courageous journey to defend her people.

I didn’t know whether to savor or devour this book so I did both. I couldn’t put it down until the last word was written. I was lost in this magnificent and magical world the author has created. I was entranced from the start and caught up in the her magical spell.

Thank you so much Ms. Crosby for this delightful treat! I can’t wait for the rest of the story.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although with small touches of romance, this story is dramatic, poignant and in places, sad, violent and cruel. Throughout, the relationships make up a large part of the story, all set against the history of Cornwall and its neighbours.
The blurb attached to this book tells much of the content. Suffice for me to say it is not your usual romance story and leaves one wanting the next book, in order to continue the saga. I am hoping for a happy ending but it is by no means guaranteed.
You will not regret taking the time to read this one!

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic fae story. Gyndolyn is blessed by the fairy gods. She is a princess who is strong willed and loved by her people. This is a page turning story of court and political intrigue wrapped up in the other world. A marriage mean to join two houses together is turning out to have greater impacts. Then there is all the wonderful characters that make the story even more intriguing. This is a great start to a brand new series.

[Kristy McCaffrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book introduces Gwendolyn of Cornwall, a princess promised in marriage to the son of King Brutus. As she comes to learn more about the fate of her life, as well as who she might truly love, tragedy strikes. This is a richly detailed book filled with both British and Celtic lore, and while not a romance novel, there's a strong romantic thread. I loved it! And the ending packs a punch. Can't wait for the next book.

[Carrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully written with so much history! I always love books from Tanya Anne Crosby. She writes for my historian's soul! So much history and depth of culture is on each page. I love it! What is even better is that the story is one that sucks me in and won't let me put it down until I have finished reading. The characters and the drama of the events keep the story moving. I can't wait to read the next one to see how this story continues!

[Rachel Kirk · Rating 5 out of 5]

I REALLY enjoyed The Cornish Princess! It was very well written and a very compelling story!
I also found myself drawn to Malik - what a wonderful character! I cannot wait for more (please hurry! :))

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[dlfuller54 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars! What a great start to a new trilogy by Tanya Ann Crosby. I really loved all the lore included in this story of a real historical character. The world building and intrigue, along with a little fantasy thrown in was very well done. I’m really looking forward to the next book to learn more of how Gwendolyn, The Cornish Princess, fulfills the Goldenchild Prophecy.

[Bonny Rambarran · Rating 5 out of 5]

A princess and an elf?
In the days of long ago when elves and fairies were around, a baby was born and the fairies blessed her — but she’s not sure whether if was a blessing or.curse. And as she grows up and a marriage is arranged , . .. still not sure. This book will totally draw you in. ENJOY
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.

[Jennifer Rosenberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful

[Martina · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked the premise but the execution not so much.

[Jaime]

DNF at like 30 pages.

This was my fault entirely, I went into it blind and it's a YA romantasy heavy on the clichés. I couldn't stand it.

[Merrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. The wonderful characters and detailed, intriguing plot made it well worth the time. I was fascinated and totally engrossed by this tale. Loved, loved, loved it!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[David Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good read of the far past of British lore and the mysterious fae who tended to play tricks, both good and bad on the people. It was also the time of the Roman invasion and the mixing of the several peoples of the time trying to rule the land leaves a lot of war and intrigue washing over the land.
A well written story with a plot that easily passes onto the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.