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Waltz Of Crowns | YA Fantasy Romance No Spice | Beauty and the Beast / Nutcracker Retelling
SHE WANTED TO SACRIFICE HER FREEDOM,
NOT HER HEART
When Clara is swept from her quiet Amsterdam life into a realm of snow-dusted magic, the last thing she expects to find is that her wooden Nutcracker doll has come to life. Having wished for true love, it does not take Clara long to fall for the handsome Nutcracker King Nash. With palaces, magic, and enchanted dinners, Clara cannot believe how quickly her luck has changed.
But Clara’s new life of romance ends as quickly as it begins when Nash is captured by the rivaling Rat King, Rylan. Desperate to prove her love and loyalty, Clara volunteers to take Nash’s place as Rylan’s prisoner. Determined not to let the Rat King ruin her happily-ever-after, Clara concocts plans to cause chaos in the enemy kingdom.
Clara’s chances at escape take a turn when she begins falling for her evil captor and learning the secrets of the centuries-long feud. Will she lose everything she ever wanted if the secrets get out?
Tropes & more
Enemies to lovers
No-spice
Young Adult / Teenagers
Romantic Fantasy
Fairytale Retelling
NOT HER HEART
When Clara is swept from her quiet Amsterdam life into a realm of snow-dusted magic, the last thing she expects to find is that her wooden Nutcracker doll has come to life. Having wished for true love, it does not take Clara long to fall for the handsome Nutcracker King Nash. With palaces, magic, and enchanted dinners, Clara cannot believe how quickly her luck has changed.
But Clara’s new life of romance ends as quickly as it begins when Nash is captured by the rivaling Rat King, Rylan. Desperate to prove her love and loyalty, Clara volunteers to take Nash’s place as Rylan’s prisoner. Determined not to let the Rat King ruin her happily-ever-after, Clara concocts plans to cause chaos in the enemy kingdom.
Clara’s chances at escape take a turn when she begins falling for her evil captor and learning the secrets of the centuries-long feud. Will she lose everything she ever wanted if the secrets get out?
Tropes & more
Enemies to lovers
No-spice
Young Adult / Teenagers
Romantic Fantasy
Fairytale Retelling
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 14, 2025
9 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
September 9, 2025
This was so incredibly good! Have you ever read a book that you just want to reread over and over again for the first time? That is how I feel about this book! It has been on my mind on replay non stop! I absolutely cannot tell you how much I enjoyed the dynamics, the characters, the storyline, just all of it! I loved reading everything from Clara‘s POV and loved seeing her grow and develop into the woman/person she was meant to be was just phenomenal.
I absolutely loved Rylan’s character and enjoyed watching how all the scenes played out between him and Clara. Rylan was everything Nash was supposed to be, kind, caring, patient, long suffering and just an all around good man and king. Nash may have started out as a hero, but ended up being a big fat zero consumed with no one but himself.
There is magic, no spice, swoon worthy, zero cursing and just all things wonderful! Do yourself a favor and read it asap!
I received an advanced readers copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
Quotes:
“Hey, Rylan?” I took a bite of my sandwich, the cheese sticking to the tips of my teeth. “Does everyone really see me as someone from the Toy Kingdom? I’ve been here longer than I’ve been at the Toy Kingdom.” (Clara)
Rylan bit a piece of the bacon, chewing intently before responding, “I think that people used to think that. Now, I’m sure that they all consider you a member of the Rat Kingdom.”
“And what do you think?” (Clara)
Rylan placed his fork down on the table, taking a moment to think.“It does not matter what I think, Clara. You and Nash are a couple, and as long as that is the case, he would never allow you to be associated with me or my kingdom.”
“Okay, but all of that aside?” (Clara)
“All of that aside,” Rylan stared deep into my eyes. His gaze was fierce. “I do see you as one of us. You’re kind, and you’re incredibly brave. You have strong opinions, and you’re hardworking. And you are beautiful, Clara. You belong at the Rat Kingdom. With me.”
I absolutely loved Rylan’s character and enjoyed watching how all the scenes played out between him and Clara. Rylan was everything Nash was supposed to be, kind, caring, patient, long suffering and just an all around good man and king. Nash may have started out as a hero, but ended up being a big fat zero consumed with no one but himself.
There is magic, no spice, swoon worthy, zero cursing and just all things wonderful! Do yourself a favor and read it asap!
I received an advanced readers copy from the author, and this is my honest review.
Quotes:
“Hey, Rylan?” I took a bite of my sandwich, the cheese sticking to the tips of my teeth. “Does everyone really see me as someone from the Toy Kingdom? I’ve been here longer than I’ve been at the Toy Kingdom.” (Clara)
Rylan bit a piece of the bacon, chewing intently before responding, “I think that people used to think that. Now, I’m sure that they all consider you a member of the Rat Kingdom.”
“And what do you think?” (Clara)
Rylan placed his fork down on the table, taking a moment to think.“It does not matter what I think, Clara. You and Nash are a couple, and as long as that is the case, he would never allow you to be associated with me or my kingdom.”
“Okay, but all of that aside?” (Clara)
“All of that aside,” Rylan stared deep into my eyes. His gaze was fierce. “I do see you as one of us. You’re kind, and you’re incredibly brave. You have strong opinions, and you’re hardworking. And you are beautiful, Clara. You belong at the Rat Kingdom. With me.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2025
A cute, sweet treat of a read
This story was fun and easy to read. Born into a privileged family in Amsterdam, Clara lives the life of a spoiled, pampered rich girl. Only one disappointment mars her existence: she's never been in love, or even kissed. Eager for new experiences, when she awakens in a fairytale world, a handsome prince easily sweeps her off her feet before she can learn his true character. The author does a great job of portraying how easy it is to become stuck in a toxic relationship when you just want to be loved. I appreciated the distinction between love and lust, something few authors dare to make.
In the beginning, Clara's selfishness leads her to dismiss the red flags that pop up, until she is faced with not only the truth about her new boyfriend, but her own shallowness.
At first, the style of speaking made me think the story was early 1900s or before, until things like cars and refrigerators were referenced. The fairy kingdoms had some modern conveniences but not others. Besides that, the world building and use of magic served the story well, underscoring the adventure Clara had embarked on. The references to the original Nutcracker ballet were uniquely woven in. I want to visit the Kingdom of Sweets and taste some of that hazelnut chocolate. The use of nuts as in-world expletives was funny.
The language was clean, kisses were brief with minimal description, there was a reference to an engaged couple sharing a bedroom, and some mild, non-lethal fantasy and non-fantasy violence, including a man kicking a woman, but nothing gory or explicit. This is an enjoyable book I would recommend for 16+. I look forward to the next retelling which was hinted at.
This story was fun and easy to read. Born into a privileged family in Amsterdam, Clara lives the life of a spoiled, pampered rich girl. Only one disappointment mars her existence: she's never been in love, or even kissed. Eager for new experiences, when she awakens in a fairytale world, a handsome prince easily sweeps her off her feet before she can learn his true character. The author does a great job of portraying how easy it is to become stuck in a toxic relationship when you just want to be loved. I appreciated the distinction between love and lust, something few authors dare to make.
In the beginning, Clara's selfishness leads her to dismiss the red flags that pop up, until she is faced with not only the truth about her new boyfriend, but her own shallowness.
At first, the style of speaking made me think the story was early 1900s or before, until things like cars and refrigerators were referenced. The fairy kingdoms had some modern conveniences but not others. Besides that, the world building and use of magic served the story well, underscoring the adventure Clara had embarked on. The references to the original Nutcracker ballet were uniquely woven in. I want to visit the Kingdom of Sweets and taste some of that hazelnut chocolate. The use of nuts as in-world expletives was funny.
The language was clean, kisses were brief with minimal description, there was a reference to an engaged couple sharing a bedroom, and some mild, non-lethal fantasy and non-fantasy violence, including a man kicking a woman, but nothing gory or explicit. This is an enjoyable book I would recommend for 16+. I look forward to the next retelling which was hinted at.
September 8, 2025
A delightful, cozy read for the winter!
I really enjoyed this retelling of The Nutcracker x Beauty and the Beast. Waltz of Crowns is a charming blend of Christmas traditions and no-spice romance with humor sprinkled on top! Piper's prose is easy to read and immersive. As a bonus, the lush descriptions of food made me hungry each time.
Clara is a pampered teen who is whisked off to a magical land where toys like her handsome nutcracker doll and the Rat King come to life, in life-size to boot. But not all is as it seems, including the Sugar Plum Fairies. Oh my goodness, run!
I admit I spent most of the book wanting to grab Clara and shake her for missing/dismissing all the red flags a certain man exhibited. Thankfully, she learns her lesson before all is lost, and her character arc was very satisfying to read. Grey has a knack for writing the sweetest endings to her books. I enjoyed this one as much as her previous work, Out of Wonderland!
I recommend Waltz of Crowns as an easy romance read for people who like:
- This:
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Portal fantasy
- Handsome villains
- Royalty/Palace glamor
- Banter and humor
Quotes:
"Keep up the good work, Finn! We're almost there." I called out to Finn, encouraging him. I looked down at Rylan. His wavy black hair rested over his face, framing it.
"Hold on, Rylan. I don't want to lose you," I whispered.
~~~~~~~
"What makes this cheese so special?" I dared to ask, chewing the gooey potato and cheese dish.
"Well, deep in the Sugar Woods, there are these creatures called groratens. They are basically giant rats..."
I stopped chewing...
"A couple of centuries ago, farmers began domesticating these groratens. It was then discovered that their milk had certain 'magic-enhancing properties.'" Rylan continued, using air quote fingers for the last three words.
My lips parted slightly, the half-chewed brahtpan sitting on my tongue.
"Rylan," I mumbled, trying my best not to move my tongue too much, "What exactly is that cheese?"
Rylan sat quietly for a moment before whispering, "Giant-rat milk."
I really enjoyed this retelling of The Nutcracker x Beauty and the Beast. Waltz of Crowns is a charming blend of Christmas traditions and no-spice romance with humor sprinkled on top! Piper's prose is easy to read and immersive. As a bonus, the lush descriptions of food made me hungry each time.
Clara is a pampered teen who is whisked off to a magical land where toys like her handsome nutcracker doll and the Rat King come to life, in life-size to boot. But not all is as it seems, including the Sugar Plum Fairies. Oh my goodness, run!
I admit I spent most of the book wanting to grab Clara and shake her for missing/dismissing all the red flags a certain man exhibited. Thankfully, she learns her lesson before all is lost, and her character arc was very satisfying to read. Grey has a knack for writing the sweetest endings to her books. I enjoyed this one as much as her previous work, Out of Wonderland!
I recommend Waltz of Crowns as an easy romance read for people who like:
- This:
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Portal fantasy
- Handsome villains
- Royalty/Palace glamor
- Banter and humor
Quotes:
"Keep up the good work, Finn! We're almost there." I called out to Finn, encouraging him. I looked down at Rylan. His wavy black hair rested over his face, framing it.
"Hold on, Rylan. I don't want to lose you," I whispered.
~~~~~~~
"What makes this cheese so special?" I dared to ask, chewing the gooey potato and cheese dish.
"Well, deep in the Sugar Woods, there are these creatures called groratens. They are basically giant rats..."
I stopped chewing...
"A couple of centuries ago, farmers began domesticating these groratens. It was then discovered that their milk had certain 'magic-enhancing properties.'" Rylan continued, using air quote fingers for the last three words.
My lips parted slightly, the half-chewed brahtpan sitting on my tongue.
"Rylan," I mumbled, trying my best not to move my tongue too much, "What exactly is that cheese?"
Rylan sat quietly for a moment before whispering, "Giant-rat milk."
September 12, 2025
A Snowstorm of Emotion and Power
Waltz of Crown by Piper S. Grey is a total page turner! From the moment I started reading, I was hooked. The story takes you into a world of royal drama, romance, magic and lots of unexpected twists that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The world-building and character development is truly where this book shines. Piper has created a rich, magical kingdom that feels alive with wonder, mystery and magic. From enchanted ballrooms to decade long feud and of course love, the story keeps you on your toes and wanting more. But beware, Piper’s food description will make you hungry!
The romance is slow and sweet, but also full of tension. You’ll feel all the emotions as the characters try to figure out what they want and how to navigate their personal feelings and dilemmas. It’s not just a love story, though—there’s so much more going on, with betrayal, royal duties (and drama) and surprising secrets. The main characters are so well written, and I really cared about them from the start even though the female main character can be annoying at first (but her evolution is well done is very enjoyable).
By the end, I was very satisfied. The book wraps up in a way that feels complete, but I was left hoping there might be more (hopefully book 2?). If you like stories with royal drama, heartfelt romance, a bit of suspense and what Piper likes to call a ‘’want to kill triangle’’, Waltz of Crown is definitely worth checking out. Piper S. Grey nailed it with this one!
Quotes:
-"Rylan helped me realize my worth. He made me feel like I was more than just a pretty girl with a dress and a book collection."
-“Well, the Toy Kingdom sounds like a place straight out of a fairytale.” I crossed my arms, and Nash’s cloak drooped over my shoulder. “Is there a Queen Barbie? Perhaps a Candy Cane Court. Come on Nash, I’m not a child anymore. I don’t believe in nonsense like that.”
“Perhaps you should start believing, Clara.
Waltz of Crown by Piper S. Grey is a total page turner! From the moment I started reading, I was hooked. The story takes you into a world of royal drama, romance, magic and lots of unexpected twists that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The world-building and character development is truly where this book shines. Piper has created a rich, magical kingdom that feels alive with wonder, mystery and magic. From enchanted ballrooms to decade long feud and of course love, the story keeps you on your toes and wanting more. But beware, Piper’s food description will make you hungry!
The romance is slow and sweet, but also full of tension. You’ll feel all the emotions as the characters try to figure out what they want and how to navigate their personal feelings and dilemmas. It’s not just a love story, though—there’s so much more going on, with betrayal, royal duties (and drama) and surprising secrets. The main characters are so well written, and I really cared about them from the start even though the female main character can be annoying at first (but her evolution is well done is very enjoyable).
By the end, I was very satisfied. The book wraps up in a way that feels complete, but I was left hoping there might be more (hopefully book 2?). If you like stories with royal drama, heartfelt romance, a bit of suspense and what Piper likes to call a ‘’want to kill triangle’’, Waltz of Crown is definitely worth checking out. Piper S. Grey nailed it with this one!
Quotes:
-"Rylan helped me realize my worth. He made me feel like I was more than just a pretty girl with a dress and a book collection."
-“Well, the Toy Kingdom sounds like a place straight out of a fairytale.” I crossed my arms, and Nash’s cloak drooped over my shoulder. “Is there a Queen Barbie? Perhaps a Candy Cane Court. Come on Nash, I’m not a child anymore. I don’t believe in nonsense like that.”
“Perhaps you should start believing, Clara.
December 9, 2025
A Nutcracker retelling-yes sign me up. Plus a Beauty and the Beast retelling-YASSS, even better!
I really enjoyed this little book. I thought it was and engaging. It really kept me wanting to find out what happens.
I really did enjoy the characters for the most part. Now, I’m not going to lie, our FMC is very annoying at first. Like, I just wanted to shake her myself. Her attitude and insta love with one of our characters was annoying. HOWEVER, that is how she is supposed to be. She does grow and change. And her outcome is great!
I definitely strongly disliked one of our MMC from the get go, and he was very sus. But I knew he was supposed to be like that. I love it when an author makes me feel towards the characters. The other MMC was absolutely brilliant. I loved him so much.
I also loved our plot with the Easter eggs of The Nutcracker and Beauty and the Beast. One of my favorite Christmas stories and my favorite fairytales all wrapped up in a neat little bow. I highly recommend giving this book a try. Especially during the Christmas/winter seasons and if you are fans of The Nutcracker and/or Beauty and the Beast.
I really enjoyed this little book. I thought it was and engaging. It really kept me wanting to find out what happens.
I really did enjoy the characters for the most part. Now, I’m not going to lie, our FMC is very annoying at first. Like, I just wanted to shake her myself. Her attitude and insta love with one of our characters was annoying. HOWEVER, that is how she is supposed to be. She does grow and change. And her outcome is great!
I definitely strongly disliked one of our MMC from the get go, and he was very sus. But I knew he was supposed to be like that. I love it when an author makes me feel towards the characters. The other MMC was absolutely brilliant. I loved him so much.
I also loved our plot with the Easter eggs of The Nutcracker and Beauty and the Beast. One of my favorite Christmas stories and my favorite fairytales all wrapped up in a neat little bow. I highly recommend giving this book a try. Especially during the Christmas/winter seasons and if you are fans of The Nutcracker and/or Beauty and the Beast.
November 12, 2025
I loved it! Retellings are my favorite genre and Piper S. Grey does not disappoint. I don't like giving spoilers of any kind, so you won't find any here. But I will say that I loved the character development and the descriptions. The scenery, smells, it was almost like I was right there. I could feel the fabrics; I could smell the teas and confections. It was wonderful to read how the characters changed/grew throughout the story. I try my best to not think of any twists that might happen but usually fail. Lol. Waltz of Crowns was a much enjoyed read and I look forward to reading more of Piper's work.
September 14, 2025
This was an enchanting read! I have always loved watching the nutcracker play and seeing the battles. The rat king has always secretly been my favorite character so this retelling was magical. I loved seeing a popular story turned on its head. Why does the handsome golden charmer always have to save the day and get the girl? (You know what I’m saying (; ) I loved the banter and Christmas vibes this book gave me. The food sounded delicious and I found myself needing to eat before reading further. Piper writes wonderfully and I really appreciated the no spice aspect.
November 9, 2025
3 stars, maybe 2.5.
What I liked:
Rylan! Also all the different kingdoms! Don’t get me started on the sugar plum fairies 🫣 The CLIFFHANGER! like, WHAT?!?!?!?
What I didn’t like:
The MC for most of the book. She was SO incredibly naive that she drove me INSANE! Also, SUPER spoiled. I get that it’s her character, but still! (in the end, I ended up liking her a lot better).
This book was definitely a clean read, it also surprised me with a little bit of a beauty and the beast retelling woven in. All in all, it was a good book, it just wasn’t for me.
What I liked:
Rylan! Also all the different kingdoms! Don’t get me started on the sugar plum fairies 🫣 The CLIFFHANGER! like, WHAT?!?!?!?
What I didn’t like:
The MC for most of the book. She was SO incredibly naive that she drove me INSANE! Also, SUPER spoiled. I get that it’s her character, but still! (in the end, I ended up liking her a lot better).
This book was definitely a clean read, it also surprised me with a little bit of a beauty and the beast retelling woven in. All in all, it was a good book, it just wasn’t for me.
November 6, 2025
"Perhaps a fire kills a lot in its wake..."
"Perhaps a fire kills a lot in its wake, but once everything is gone and stripped, the only possible next step is to start growing anew."
"My head spun. Anger and sadness twisted through my mind like vines."
Fantastically engaging with this unique take on two beloved stories.
Great editing so it was a seamless meshing of the two.
This book is definitely worthy of a repeat read!
"Perhaps a fire kills a lot in its wake, but once everything is gone and stripped, the only possible next step is to start growing anew."
"My head spun. Anger and sadness twisted through my mind like vines."
Fantastically engaging with this unique take on two beloved stories.
Great editing so it was a seamless meshing of the two.
This book is definitely worthy of a repeat read!
February 18, 2026
My first read by Piper. This was a great read! I really like the "people aren't always what they seem" trope. And Rylan is such an amazing character. I was so happy to see Clare grow during her time away.
Content: 1 profanity, magic, sweet romance, fiances spending the night together, murder, feuds, magic travel, and a wonderful godfather!
This was The Nutcracker meets Beauty and the Beast!
Content: 1 profanity, magic, sweet romance, fiances spending the night together, murder, feuds, magic travel, and a wonderful godfather!
This was The Nutcracker meets Beauty and the Beast!
September 9, 2025
Very cute book about the retelling of the nutcracker. Very easy romance to read. I really enjoyed reading this arc. The author was able to describe everything is such an exciting way. This is a must read for Christmas. It is a no spice romance with a little humor thrown in at times.
September 5, 2025
This is a cute adventure, very nutcracker theme.. I thought it was well written just not something I would pick for myself.
September 28, 2025
Waltz of Crowns is a creative, well blended retelling of the Nutcracker and Beauty and the Beast!
I love the wintery vibes of this book, and enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes!
I was given an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I love the wintery vibes of this book, and enemies to lovers is one of my favorite tropes!
I was given an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews