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Exhibit Aurora
Aurora was meant to wake. The prophecy promised a hundred years of sleep. But centuries passed, her kingdom crumbled to dust, and now she rests in a museum display, an artifact of myth and magic.
Dez is a museum custodian and aspiring engineer who stumbles upon a way to enter Aurora’s dreams. What starts as curiosity becomes something deeper as he pieces together her story—and uncovers a connection that defies time.
Kyra, a researcher at the museum, has spent centuries protecting Aurora’s sleep. To the world, she’s a scholar. In truth, she is the Good Fairy—the one who cast the spell when the curse could not be undone. Now, the balance is shifting, and the past is stirring.
Together, Dez and Kyra must combine science and magic to try to awaken Aurora. But the bigger question What will she awaken to?
Exhibit Aurora is a haunting blend of fairy tale and speculative fiction, exploring the fragility of memory, the cost of intervention, and what happens when forgotten stories demand to be heard.
Dez is a museum custodian and aspiring engineer who stumbles upon a way to enter Aurora’s dreams. What starts as curiosity becomes something deeper as he pieces together her story—and uncovers a connection that defies time.
Kyra, a researcher at the museum, has spent centuries protecting Aurora’s sleep. To the world, she’s a scholar. In truth, she is the Good Fairy—the one who cast the spell when the curse could not be undone. Now, the balance is shifting, and the past is stirring.
Together, Dez and Kyra must combine science and magic to try to awaken Aurora. But the bigger question What will she awaken to?
Exhibit Aurora is a haunting blend of fairy tale and speculative fiction, exploring the fragility of memory, the cost of intervention, and what happens when forgotten stories demand to be heard.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2025
7 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Casino
2 books13 followersKylie Casino is a dance educator, choreographer, and emerging novelist whose work explores the intersection of movement, memory, and storytelling. Her original stage productions often draw on folklore and mythology, blending classical forms with contemporary expression. She is inspired by a lifelong fascination with reimagining fairy tales through a speculative lens. When she’s not writing or choreographing, Kylie can usually be found reading or daydreaming new stories on long walks through Pennsylvania, where she lives with her husband, stepdaughter, two dogs, and eleven cats.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 7, 2025
Disclosure: I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for an honest review. As someone who loves supporting indie authors, I always aim to share thoughtful, fair feedback. While I have personal reading preferences like a love for fantasy, horses, or specific tropes, I never let that impact my rating unless it is relevant to the book’s intent or audience. I review with the genre and readership in mind.
Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice rating: -
Darkness/Bloodiness: -
I think we can all agree when I say it is very difficult to write a fairytale retelling in a modern setting. I don't know what exactly made it possible, but this book absolutely delivered on modern fairytale retelling for me!
Initially the cover pulled me in, it is stunning, I love the colors, I love how it reflects the story and those details, heart eyes! I love retellings so obviously I picked up the book. Did I expect research ethics and capitalism, corruption to be represented in a subtle but powerful way? No, I absolutely did not and they took me off my feet. They absolutely made sense and the questioning behind Aurora's rights??? Holy smokes yes! It was so satisfying, I felt my brain teased in a way I never imagined. I loved the soft, sweet slow burn that added to the story and the action as well.
One topic this book delves deeply into is the guilt of the survivor. It was really deeply touching and I felt tears well up in my eyes for both the Fairy and the Princess. I don't think I even before thought deeply about this feeling or almost mental difficulty? This book helped me understand a perspective I have never seen before, I will be forever grateful for it!
Contemporary lovers, retelling lovers will surely find something to love about the book and I hope many people will read it and enjoy just as much as I did!
My favorite quote:
“She was beautiful and loved how she looked, it didn't matter what any man thought. And she was skilled with a bow and arrow if any dared to believe he could have an opinion on the matter.“
Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice rating: -
Darkness/Bloodiness: -
I think we can all agree when I say it is very difficult to write a fairytale retelling in a modern setting. I don't know what exactly made it possible, but this book absolutely delivered on modern fairytale retelling for me!
Initially the cover pulled me in, it is stunning, I love the colors, I love how it reflects the story and those details, heart eyes! I love retellings so obviously I picked up the book. Did I expect research ethics and capitalism, corruption to be represented in a subtle but powerful way? No, I absolutely did not and they took me off my feet. They absolutely made sense and the questioning behind Aurora's rights??? Holy smokes yes! It was so satisfying, I felt my brain teased in a way I never imagined. I loved the soft, sweet slow burn that added to the story and the action as well.
One topic this book delves deeply into is the guilt of the survivor. It was really deeply touching and I felt tears well up in my eyes for both the Fairy and the Princess. I don't think I even before thought deeply about this feeling or almost mental difficulty? This book helped me understand a perspective I have never seen before, I will be forever grateful for it!
Contemporary lovers, retelling lovers will surely find something to love about the book and I hope many people will read it and enjoy just as much as I did!
My favorite quote:
“She was beautiful and loved how she looked, it didn't matter what any man thought. And she was skilled with a bow and arrow if any dared to believe he could have an opinion on the matter.“
September 19, 2025
(My friend wrote a book!!)
I received an ARC copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review!
I thought this was a very solid debut novel, with exciting twist and turns; a much more modern twist on the story of Sleeping Beauty.
I liked this was told in different timelines, modern day 2025/2026, the 14th century during Aurora’s original time, as well as a third more magical sciencey space that is a surprise for when you read the story yourself. I loved the way science was interspersed in the story alongside the magic as well as the backdrop of museum as our main setting. The Covid commentary was also appreciated and I liked the way it was incorporated into the story, as a relatable aside. Another realistic fact was the unfortunately realistic depiction of creepy dudes and what they would do or say they found a sleeping woman who never aged. The story was well crafted and well paced; a fresh new take on an age old fairytale.
“It’s time we stopped looking at magic as something imaginary and started recognizing it as a fundamental part of our world.”
I received an ARC copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review!
I thought this was a very solid debut novel, with exciting twist and turns; a much more modern twist on the story of Sleeping Beauty.
I liked this was told in different timelines, modern day 2025/2026, the 14th century during Aurora’s original time, as well as a third more magical sciencey space that is a surprise for when you read the story yourself. I loved the way science was interspersed in the story alongside the magic as well as the backdrop of museum as our main setting. The Covid commentary was also appreciated and I liked the way it was incorporated into the story, as a relatable aside. Another realistic fact was the unfortunately realistic depiction of creepy dudes and what they would do or say they found a sleeping woman who never aged. The story was well crafted and well paced; a fresh new take on an age old fairytale.
“It’s time we stopped looking at magic as something imaginary and started recognizing it as a fundamental part of our world.”
September 26, 2025
Oh my goodness! That was incredible! I was soooo super into this book from the get go, like I mean I could not put it down! 👑
I’ll start by saying that I pick books that I generally know I’ll like (mostly researching them) but if I didn’t enjoy it, typically it’s because of the characters. This book did not have this problem at all! I fell in love with all of these characters, (except Lizzie iykyk) they all had qualities that just made you want to know them more. Dez is just a quirky guy, and we love him for that🤓 Auroras character was also very dynamic to that old century/coming into modern times vibe. They’re relationship was super sweet, and I wish for my very own Dez in real life😂
Overall I got to enjoy this book as an Arc reader, and was very grateful for that! I think it’s stunning, and you should give it a read🫵
Also (maybe spoiler) but Dez making the comment about her eyes, “Your eyes are blue. I knew it” really did something for me!😍
I’ll start by saying that I pick books that I generally know I’ll like (mostly researching them) but if I didn’t enjoy it, typically it’s because of the characters. This book did not have this problem at all! I fell in love with all of these characters, (except Lizzie iykyk) they all had qualities that just made you want to know them more. Dez is just a quirky guy, and we love him for that🤓 Auroras character was also very dynamic to that old century/coming into modern times vibe. They’re relationship was super sweet, and I wish for my very own Dez in real life😂
Overall I got to enjoy this book as an Arc reader, and was very grateful for that! I think it’s stunning, and you should give it a read🫵
Also (maybe spoiler) but Dez making the comment about her eyes, “Your eyes are blue. I knew it” really did something for me!😍
August 19, 2025
Hmmm… hard to place this one. I’m hovering between three or four stars. I do feel like I had to suspend disbelief a little too much while reading this book. It was also a little slow moving at the beginning, but did pick up a bit near the end.
I loved the side characters a little bit more than the main characters, to be honest. My favorite scene as Kyra and Greg flying down to Mexico. That was pretty funny. And I did like the relationship between Aurora and Dez. I liked that it wasn’t insta-love or fated mates or anything like that. It took a long time to develop. Lizzie got the raw end of the deal too much. I know she was supposed to be this annoying “villain,” but I didn’t hate her at all. She brought up some good points—things that Aurora herself felt—and the hated for her just felt so out of place.
I’m not really sure that I would call this a romance, so don’t go into this thinking that it will be. It is a fairly short and easy read, without any spice (only a few kisses).
Thank you to the author/publisher for providing me with an ARC copy 😃
I loved the side characters a little bit more than the main characters, to be honest. My favorite scene as Kyra and Greg flying down to Mexico. That was pretty funny. And I did like the relationship between Aurora and Dez. I liked that it wasn’t insta-love or fated mates or anything like that. It took a long time to develop. Lizzie got the raw end of the deal too much. I know she was supposed to be this annoying “villain,” but I didn’t hate her at all. She brought up some good points—things that Aurora herself felt—and the hated for her just felt so out of place.
I’m not really sure that I would call this a romance, so don’t go into this thinking that it will be. It is a fairly short and easy read, without any spice (only a few kisses).
Thank you to the author/publisher for providing me with an ARC copy 😃
August 21, 2025
Okay okay okay! I am so happy that I got too read this book! When I read the blurb I just had to.
So thank you for this wonderful story, I am a sucker for retelling of the classic stories, and this one hit home, it has the elements for the original story, but still is its own original story.
I was thinking how this story would go beforehand how it would work, but OMG it did, and it didn’t happen the way I expected it to!
It’s an amazing story! Good job!
The writing was good and an easy read !
So thank you for this wonderful story, I am a sucker for retelling of the classic stories, and this one hit home, it has the elements for the original story, but still is its own original story.
I was thinking how this story would go beforehand how it would work, but OMG it did, and it didn’t happen the way I expected it to!
It’s an amazing story! Good job!
The writing was good and an easy read !
October 2, 2025
I received a digital ARC from the author and decided to provide an honest review.
I love all kinds of fairy tale retellings, and the basis of this one was extremely original. I also enjoyed the blend of magic and science and thought the two were combined well. Overall, the stakes in this book are not as intense as might be expected, making this a more cozy, romance-focused story. I liked the flashback chapters, but thought some of them were cut off at the most interesting part (I still want to know what happened after Philip tried to wake Aurora!). Besides that, I had no issues with the plot, pacing, and characters. This was a really intriguing concept that was done well. I would be interested in reading any future books from the author.
I love all kinds of fairy tale retellings, and the basis of this one was extremely original. I also enjoyed the blend of magic and science and thought the two were combined well. Overall, the stakes in this book are not as intense as might be expected, making this a more cozy, romance-focused story. I liked the flashback chapters, but thought some of them were cut off at the most interesting part (I still want to know what happened after Philip tried to wake Aurora!). Besides that, I had no issues with the plot, pacing, and characters. This was a really intriguing concept that was done well. I would be interested in reading any future books from the author.
September 25, 2025
Disclaimer: I received this book as an ARC reader.
A cutesy retelling of a classic fairy tale but with a modern twist! I love the mix of modern-day technology and Medieval memories. And the magic aspects kept me enthralled! I can honestly say that I caught myself grinning like a fool at the blossoming romance between Dez and Aurora more than a few times. And Greg and Kyra's banter together had me actually laughing out loud.
I love, love!
A cutesy retelling of a classic fairy tale but with a modern twist! I love the mix of modern-day technology and Medieval memories. And the magic aspects kept me enthralled! I can honestly say that I caught myself grinning like a fool at the blossoming romance between Dez and Aurora more than a few times. And Greg and Kyra's banter together had me actually laughing out loud.
I love, love!
October 14, 2025
A totally original, fun read!
Blending a classic fairytale we all know and today's world, Exhibit Aurora is entertaining and can be thought provoking if you want to consider the technology that's used in the story. The characters are believable, including the modern villain, and the story moves along at a nice pace. I enjoyed every page of this book and highly appreciated finding a storyline unlike anything else I've ever read.
Blending a classic fairytale we all know and today's world, Exhibit Aurora is entertaining and can be thought provoking if you want to consider the technology that's used in the story. The characters are believable, including the modern villain, and the story moves along at a nice pace. I enjoyed every page of this book and highly appreciated finding a storyline unlike anything else I've ever read.
August 28, 2025
This book was so cute and sweet, I love the mix of science with magic. Good retelling of sleeping beauty with a modern twist. I love how it was more realistic in a way. Like something that could happen.. Dez is so cute and such a romantic. Totally thought Greg and Kira would end up together but all in all definitely a great read!
September 25, 2025
Modern Sleeping Beauty vibes 💤✨ with magic + science, twisty timelines, and the sweetest romance! Fresh, fun, and totally unexpected—loved this debut! 💕
September 26, 2025
It’s a beautiful and amazing retelling of Aurora. It has magical realism and romance. I loved this book and it makes you feel like you’re really in the elements of the book!
August 22, 2025
I had the pleasure to receive this book in return for my honest opinion as an ARC reader. First of all, the characters are very well thought out and believable. My favorite is Greg, who is Dez's best friend and right hand man; he can always be counted on for a quick joke to lighten the mood or to save the day when Dez and his crew get in trouble. Kyra, (The Good Fairy) is also very well written and quite funny. I like her sense of humor and strong personality. Aurora (The Sleeping Beauty) gives Elle vibes (from Legally Blonde) which I totally love.
The way the love story unfolds between Dez and Aurora is a delightful slow burn, with a sweet push-pull dynamic; nothing is rushed, it's very classic and respectful and a throwback to more reserved times when men and women still courted and took their time getting to know each other (very refreshing!)
The dialogue is amazing. One of my pet peeves with many novels (especially debut ones) is "forced" dialogue, or characters who might be better if they just knew how to communicate, or dialogue that is, for lack of a better word, bad. However, the dialogue in Aurora is strong, realistic, and spot on. The characters speak like real people in the world. It's obvious which character is speaking simply from how they talk. For example, at one time in the story, we learn Kyra's therapist, Maura, is a descendant of the Gullah people, simply because of how she changes her dialect, which I thought was a stroke of genius.
The environments that the characters move in are very well crafted; we can see the castles, feel the silky or rough fabrics and cold, stone floors, imagine the warm breezes, and feel the fear of the characters when they encounter danger. We sympathize with them and are scared with them and we rejoice with them. At times, I was holding my breath, hoping for a happy ending; although I knew it was a reimagined fairy tale, we all know they don't always end well...
With all of that being said, I must admit that this is a great debut novel for Kylie Casino. She has succeeded in giving a relatable, poignant, and heartwarming retelling of a timeless tale. I hated to see it end, however, I look forward to seeing more of Ms. Casino's work in the future and I'm glad to have had the privilege to be among one of her first readers.
The way the love story unfolds between Dez and Aurora is a delightful slow burn, with a sweet push-pull dynamic; nothing is rushed, it's very classic and respectful and a throwback to more reserved times when men and women still courted and took their time getting to know each other (very refreshing!)
The dialogue is amazing. One of my pet peeves with many novels (especially debut ones) is "forced" dialogue, or characters who might be better if they just knew how to communicate, or dialogue that is, for lack of a better word, bad. However, the dialogue in Aurora is strong, realistic, and spot on. The characters speak like real people in the world. It's obvious which character is speaking simply from how they talk. For example, at one time in the story, we learn Kyra's therapist, Maura, is a descendant of the Gullah people, simply because of how she changes her dialect, which I thought was a stroke of genius.
The environments that the characters move in are very well crafted; we can see the castles, feel the silky or rough fabrics and cold, stone floors, imagine the warm breezes, and feel the fear of the characters when they encounter danger. We sympathize with them and are scared with them and we rejoice with them. At times, I was holding my breath, hoping for a happy ending; although I knew it was a reimagined fairy tale, we all know they don't always end well...
With all of that being said, I must admit that this is a great debut novel for Kylie Casino. She has succeeded in giving a relatable, poignant, and heartwarming retelling of a timeless tale. I hated to see it end, however, I look forward to seeing more of Ms. Casino's work in the future and I'm glad to have had the privilege to be among one of her first readers.
August 19, 2025
Right off the bat, the title of this book grabbed my attention.
This wasn't "just another reimagining" of a fairytale; it was totally fresh. I kept wanting to know what would happen next.
The balance between Aurora's past, and how that met modern day society (for better or for worse!) was fun to explore and had me laughing quite a few times.
The dynamics between Aurora, Dez, Kyra, and Greg and their dialogue together was so charming.
I can say that the downside of this story was that it ended before I was ready!
It would be fun to read more about Aurora's adventures in her world, or to follow other characters into their present!
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book.
This wasn't "just another reimagining" of a fairytale; it was totally fresh. I kept wanting to know what would happen next.
The balance between Aurora's past, and how that met modern day society (for better or for worse!) was fun to explore and had me laughing quite a few times.
The dynamics between Aurora, Dez, Kyra, and Greg and their dialogue together was so charming.
I can say that the downside of this story was that it ended before I was ready!
It would be fun to read more about Aurora's adventures in her world, or to follow other characters into their present!
Thank you to the author for an early copy of this book.
September 25, 2025
I am such a sucker for fairy tale retellings, especially modernizing them, and this one gives such good vibes. Set in both the present and in the past, there is a back and forth of this one that is very true to the original flavor of the story and integration of modern themes. This is a clean romance for those who don't want spice (just some kissing), and I wouldn't necessarily say it is a romance but definitely a fantasy with some romantic elements.
In all, it is a cute fantasy retelling with a fun twist and enjoyable banter.
In all, it is a cute fantasy retelling with a fun twist and enjoyable banter.
September 26, 2025
I enjoyed reading Exhibit Aurora. I like fairy tales and twisted fairy tales. This version is a modern, unique version of the Sleeping Beauty story. It's a great read for anyone who likes fantasy, romance, a little comedy. I was rooting for Dez and Aurora who had such a cute relationship, and the themes of consent, freedom and feminism were appreciated.
I recommend reading this first novel by Kylie Casino.
I recommend reading this first novel by Kylie Casino.
September 28, 2025
I very much enjoyed this contemporary spin on the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale (my FAVE fairy tale!).
I found this to be original, fresh and it easily and smoothly enchanted me: the characters, the plot as well as the writing.
A wonderful debut I thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to more from this author.
I found this to be original, fresh and it easily and smoothly enchanted me: the characters, the plot as well as the writing.
A wonderful debut I thoroughly enjoyed and look forward to more from this author.
September 29, 2025
ARC Review
Exhibit Aurora is a beautifully written story that blends mystery and emotion. This sleeping beauty retelling is unique. I love the transitions from past to present. The descriptive writing is beautiful. A few slow moments keep it from five stars, but it’s still a captivating and memorable read.
Exhibit Aurora is a beautifully written story that blends mystery and emotion. This sleeping beauty retelling is unique. I love the transitions from past to present. The descriptive writing is beautiful. A few slow moments keep it from five stars, but it’s still a captivating and memorable read.
October 5, 2025
Exhibit Aurora is a soul-stirring exploration of art, memory, and the fragile beauty of human connection. Kylie Casino writes with poetic precision every line feels intentional, every scene drenched in emotion. The atmosphere she creates is haunting yet full of hope. It’s one of those rare stories that makes you pause, breathe, and think deeply about life and love.
September 25, 2025
I love the book love the storyline and characters thanks for writing it can't wait for the next one
November 12, 2025
I really enjoyed reading and would recommend to fellow lovers of modern retellings of classic fairytales.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews