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Wicked Princes #3
Wicked Prince of Carnage
Welcome to the dark world of Grimm, where the villains are as wicked as their desires.
Sterling’s life is forever altered after the Prince of Carnage brutally killed her grandmother. From that pain, a new and stronger person is born. One who vows to hunt down the wicked royal.
Her name is Red Riding Hood.
Prince Winter is feared by all in his court—except one. The woman hiding beneath a red cloak, murdering his wolf pack one by one.
Until he captures her.
But Prince Winter won’t end her life just yet. That death would be too easy after the damage she’s done. Sterling must first become a spectacle worthy of her crimes and play in his deadly games.
If she survives, he will do with her as he pleases. No matter the carnage.
Wicked Prince of Carnage is a new take on Little Red Riding Hood and is part of a series of stand-alone titles of spicy dark fairy tale retellings where the villain gets the girl in the end. Each delicious tale can be read in any order and contains fierce females, enemies to lovers, morally gray males, epic stories, and scorching romance. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Laura Thalassa, Raven Kennedy, and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
Wicked Prince of Carnage is set in the same world as the Once Upon A Wicked Villain Series, including Spindle of Sin and Tower of Shadows.
Sterling’s life is forever altered after the Prince of Carnage brutally killed her grandmother. From that pain, a new and stronger person is born. One who vows to hunt down the wicked royal.
Her name is Red Riding Hood.
Prince Winter is feared by all in his court—except one. The woman hiding beneath a red cloak, murdering his wolf pack one by one.
Until he captures her.
But Prince Winter won’t end her life just yet. That death would be too easy after the damage she’s done. Sterling must first become a spectacle worthy of her crimes and play in his deadly games.
If she survives, he will do with her as he pleases. No matter the carnage.
Wicked Prince of Carnage is a new take on Little Red Riding Hood and is part of a series of stand-alone titles of spicy dark fairy tale retellings where the villain gets the girl in the end. Each delicious tale can be read in any order and contains fierce females, enemies to lovers, morally gray males, epic stories, and scorching romance. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Laura Thalassa, Raven Kennedy, and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
Wicked Prince of Carnage is set in the same world as the Once Upon A Wicked Villain Series, including Spindle of Sin and Tower of Shadows.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2025
7 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Candace Robinson
61 books1,112 followersI spend my days consumed by words and hoping to one day find my own DeLorean time machine. My life consists of avoiding migraines, admiring Bonsai trees, watching classic movies, and living with my husband and daughter in Texas—where it can be forty degrees one day and eighty the next!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 22, 2025
Well, this is half my book after all!
October 15, 2025
This was a fun twist on red riding hood, in a world of ruling wolf shifters and humans.
Sterling is left to look after her baby brother when her mother dies, and she goes into the woods to find her grandmother. Instead she finds the young wolf prince and the royal guards, who attack her and kill her grandmother. She's given one chance to flee with her brother, and left with a scar as a reminder.
Years later, Sterling has trained hard for revenge, wiping out wolves in her alias as hunter red riding hood, until the Prince recognises her and traps her.
Sterling is captured, forced into deadly trials, and caged by the wicked prince.
With her brother's life on the line, Sterling must fight to survive, and play nice with her enemy.
I liked seeing the shift in feelings over time, and Winter's vulnerable side. There's spicy scenes, lots of conflict, and enemy to lover tension.
Sterling is left to look after her baby brother when her mother dies, and she goes into the woods to find her grandmother. Instead she finds the young wolf prince and the royal guards, who attack her and kill her grandmother. She's given one chance to flee with her brother, and left with a scar as a reminder.
Years later, Sterling has trained hard for revenge, wiping out wolves in her alias as hunter red riding hood, until the Prince recognises her and traps her.
Sterling is captured, forced into deadly trials, and caged by the wicked prince.
With her brother's life on the line, Sterling must fight to survive, and play nice with her enemy.
I liked seeing the shift in feelings over time, and Winter's vulnerable side. There's spicy scenes, lots of conflict, and enemy to lover tension.
September 30, 2025
*ARC in exchange for review*
Well, that was delightfully unexpected. This is a Red Riding Hood retelling with true enemies to lovers, forced proximity, some found family, and surprising plot twists. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. It is a quick read but it does a good job being a fairly filled out plot in that time. I enjoyed how the author made the tale her own.
I would recommend this to anyone that likes an alphahole that ends up falling pretty hard and turning into her own personal cinnamon roll after trying to kill one another, Fairytale retellings, a bit of spice, and characters that make you feel what they are meant to. Some of them you love to hate!
Well, that was delightfully unexpected. This is a Red Riding Hood retelling with true enemies to lovers, forced proximity, some found family, and surprising plot twists. I enjoyed this more than I thought I would. It is a quick read but it does a good job being a fairly filled out plot in that time. I enjoyed how the author made the tale her own.
I would recommend this to anyone that likes an alphahole that ends up falling pretty hard and turning into her own personal cinnamon roll after trying to kill one another, Fairytale retellings, a bit of spice, and characters that make you feel what they are meant to. Some of them you love to hate!
November 8, 2025
DNF at 18%
This just isn’t for me. Just in that little bit there's been a ton of spice that had nothing to do with the plot and it's too much.
This just isn’t for me. Just in that little bit there's been a ton of spice that had nothing to do with the plot and it's too much.
September 21, 2025
Rcvd a copy of the book for giving my review voluntarily. This is a nice twist of little red riding hood. We meet Sterling and her little brother Cyan after her mother dies in childbirth. she leaves her home to seek her grandmother but comes face to face with a boy with striking blue eyes in the forest and realized its the wolf prince. While at her grandmothers, the home is attacked by wolves and her grandmother perishes before one wolf attacks Sterling and leaves a nasty gash on her face and body. fast forward a few years and Sterling now one the butcher to sell meat to the townsfolk. but by evening she is known as Red Riding Hood, seeking vengence on the wolves that killed her family. Winter, the Wolf Prince has thought about the young girl from his youth and when he spots her in the crowd, he must know if it is her. WHen he learns of her identity, he takes her brother hostage and Sterling must free him....but at a cost. The prince puts her in the ring to fend off other criminals and if she wins her brother goes free, but no one expected Winter to grow fond of the little red riding hood. Everything is dependent on Sterling winning to free her brother at any cost, even if it means falling for the prince of carnage.
October 12, 2025
Ooh this was so good. Sterling was amazing. She was a survivor, was loyal to those she loved, and thrived on vengeance. And I loved that for her. Winter was the kind of bad guy I loved from the start. Cruel, heartless, deadly. Sign me up. The tension between them was everything. I would be over the moon if these Grimm retellings continued, but I'm happy I have three great books to reread in the meantime.
October 15, 2025
"Wicked Prince of Carnage" by Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell presents a blend of dark fantasy and revenge, set in a world where traditional fairy tales are twisted into something far more sinister….
The story focuses on Sterling, driven by grief and vengeance after a traumatic loss at the hands of the infamous Prince of Carnage, who embodies the wickedness of the realm they inhabit.
From the outset, Sterling transforms into Red Riding Hood, a fierce figure who defies the expectations placed upon her by both society and her own past. Her journey is not merely one of revenge, it's about rediscovering herself, forging a new identity out of the ashes of her losses.
The authors do a remarkable job of portraying Sterling's evolution, making her a relatable and compelling character.
Prince Winter is a well written villain. He is feared and ruthless, yet the layers of his character reveal motivations that make him more than just a villain.
The dynamic between Sterling and Winter is particularly intriguing as it unfolds, filled with tension, danger, and an undeniable attraction that complicates their interactions.
The writing draws you in, creating a dark and atmospheric setting that gave me goosebumps. The fairy tale elements are cleverly woven into the plot, allowing for familiar concepts to be subverted and reexamined through a fresh lens. The authors don’t shy away from exploring themes of power, pain, and the consequences of one's choices, engaging us not just in the action but also in the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
The pacing is good, it alternates between moments of intense action and quieter reflections, giving the characters space to develop while maintaining suspense.
The "games" that Sterling must participate in add a layer of thrill, reminiscent of deadly competitions that test her wit and resilience. The stakes are high, and as Sterling navigates this treacherous landscape, we are kept on edge, eager to see if she can outsmart both the Prince and the darker forces at play….
Overall, "Wicked Prince of Carnage" is a captivating read that offers a fresh twist on familiar fairy tales while enriching them with darker undertones. With its strong characters, engaging plot, and a rich fantasy world, this book is sure to please fans of dark fantasy and fairy tale retellings.
If you enjoy tales where vengeance meets unexpected romance, this might just be the next enthralling story for you.
🦋
*copy supplied for review
The story focuses on Sterling, driven by grief and vengeance after a traumatic loss at the hands of the infamous Prince of Carnage, who embodies the wickedness of the realm they inhabit.
From the outset, Sterling transforms into Red Riding Hood, a fierce figure who defies the expectations placed upon her by both society and her own past. Her journey is not merely one of revenge, it's about rediscovering herself, forging a new identity out of the ashes of her losses.
The authors do a remarkable job of portraying Sterling's evolution, making her a relatable and compelling character.
Prince Winter is a well written villain. He is feared and ruthless, yet the layers of his character reveal motivations that make him more than just a villain.
The dynamic between Sterling and Winter is particularly intriguing as it unfolds, filled with tension, danger, and an undeniable attraction that complicates their interactions.
The writing draws you in, creating a dark and atmospheric setting that gave me goosebumps. The fairy tale elements are cleverly woven into the plot, allowing for familiar concepts to be subverted and reexamined through a fresh lens. The authors don’t shy away from exploring themes of power, pain, and the consequences of one's choices, engaging us not just in the action but also in the moral dilemmas faced by the characters.
The pacing is good, it alternates between moments of intense action and quieter reflections, giving the characters space to develop while maintaining suspense.
The "games" that Sterling must participate in add a layer of thrill, reminiscent of deadly competitions that test her wit and resilience. The stakes are high, and as Sterling navigates this treacherous landscape, we are kept on edge, eager to see if she can outsmart both the Prince and the darker forces at play….
Overall, "Wicked Prince of Carnage" is a captivating read that offers a fresh twist on familiar fairy tales while enriching them with darker undertones. With its strong characters, engaging plot, and a rich fantasy world, this book is sure to please fans of dark fantasy and fairy tale retellings.
If you enjoy tales where vengeance meets unexpected romance, this might just be the next enthralling story for you.
🦋
*copy supplied for review
October 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Red Riding Hood please, but make it dark, vengeful, and spicy! Candace Robinson and Amber R Duell provide just that in their addition to the Wicked Prince series, The Prince of Carnage. Although not the first to reimagine this fairytale, I loved what they did to the characters and the story to make it fit into this series. An FMC who rises from tragedy and an MMC who fully plays into his wicked ways, set this story up for success.
From the beginning I loved Sterling. After witnessing The Prince of Carnage attack her grandmother, she is allowed to retreat with her brother. She is not only scarred emotionally, but physically from that attack, ensuring she never forgets. She wouldn’t forget that event despite the reminder. This event has transformed Sterling into the adult she is today. Her need for revenge drives her, pushes her. She is compelling and resonated with me throughout the story.
Prince Winter (The Prince of Carnage) is a villain to his core. Candace and Amber write this character with layers and complexities that, as the story progresses, show you sides of him that have you questioning if he really is as villainous as he lets people think. His and Sterling’s dynamic is heated and tension filled, to say the least. As their relationship grows and changes, I thoroughly loved how the two authors portrayed them.
Aside from the wonderful character development, the world building is amazing as well. The descriptive imagery pulls you into this dark world where this beloved fairytale shows signs of the story we grew up, but with the adult themes we need in our later years. This entire series has been amazing so far and I am excited to see what the other authors will contribute to this series of Wicked Princes.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
❤️Unavoidable Proximity
🖤Fairytale Reimagined
❤️Enemies to Lovers
🖤He Falls First
❤️Wicked Villains
🖤Morally Grey Characters
Red Riding Hood please, but make it dark, vengeful, and spicy! Candace Robinson and Amber R Duell provide just that in their addition to the Wicked Prince series, The Prince of Carnage. Although not the first to reimagine this fairytale, I loved what they did to the characters and the story to make it fit into this series. An FMC who rises from tragedy and an MMC who fully plays into his wicked ways, set this story up for success.
From the beginning I loved Sterling. After witnessing The Prince of Carnage attack her grandmother, she is allowed to retreat with her brother. She is not only scarred emotionally, but physically from that attack, ensuring she never forgets. She wouldn’t forget that event despite the reminder. This event has transformed Sterling into the adult she is today. Her need for revenge drives her, pushes her. She is compelling and resonated with me throughout the story.
Prince Winter (The Prince of Carnage) is a villain to his core. Candace and Amber write this character with layers and complexities that, as the story progresses, show you sides of him that have you questioning if he really is as villainous as he lets people think. His and Sterling’s dynamic is heated and tension filled, to say the least. As their relationship grows and changes, I thoroughly loved how the two authors portrayed them.
Aside from the wonderful character development, the world building is amazing as well. The descriptive imagery pulls you into this dark world where this beloved fairytale shows signs of the story we grew up, but with the adult themes we need in our later years. This entire series has been amazing so far and I am excited to see what the other authors will contribute to this series of Wicked Princes.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
❤️Unavoidable Proximity
🖤Fairytale Reimagined
❤️Enemies to Lovers
🖤He Falls First
❤️Wicked Villains
🖤Morally Grey Characters
October 13, 2025
{arc book review}
✨✨✨✨ (4 stars)
🌶️ 🌶️ (plot driven w/ some spicy scenes)
a deliciously wicked re-work of Red Riding Hood with a slow burn, enemies to lovers romance, Wicked Prince of Carnage by Candace Robinson & Amber R. Duell hooked me in and had me flipping through the pages. (this was a one day read for me!) I found this read incredibly well-paced, and was drawn in from the first page that introduced the history of the fmc, Sterling.
Sterling was witness to the brutal demise of her grandmother at the hands of the Prince of Carnage, Prince Winter, left to raise her younger brother & last of her family line. Harnessing her rage and resentment, Sterling makes it her mission to hunt down the wicked court and avenge her grandmother. Sterling lurks too close to the prince himself and finds herself captured by him. He is wicked, but it seems he isn’t quite ready to end her life. She undergoes a predicament of being part of his deadly games as form of punishments for her years of her crimes against the royals. All this time spent near the Prince, fighting for her survival under his decrees, takes a turn as she observes that there is more to his cruelty and his court than what initially is observed. Their relationship and intrigue with one another shifts, based in hidden desire and witty banner, and we get to see them cave into opening up to one another.
I absolutely loved digging deeper into the secrets in this one, and it was a wonderful read for October with its dark fairytale vibes. I can confidently say this is my favorite Little Red Riding Hood retelling.
this book is for you if you love:
🍎second match meet ups
🐺Enemies to lovers
🍎Slow burn rom
🐺Dark fairytale vibes
🍎Forced proximity
🐺Red riding hood re-telling
✨voluntary review in thanks for an ARC opportunity✨
✨✨✨✨ (4 stars)
🌶️ 🌶️ (plot driven w/ some spicy scenes)
a deliciously wicked re-work of Red Riding Hood with a slow burn, enemies to lovers romance, Wicked Prince of Carnage by Candace Robinson & Amber R. Duell hooked me in and had me flipping through the pages. (this was a one day read for me!) I found this read incredibly well-paced, and was drawn in from the first page that introduced the history of the fmc, Sterling.
Sterling was witness to the brutal demise of her grandmother at the hands of the Prince of Carnage, Prince Winter, left to raise her younger brother & last of her family line. Harnessing her rage and resentment, Sterling makes it her mission to hunt down the wicked court and avenge her grandmother. Sterling lurks too close to the prince himself and finds herself captured by him. He is wicked, but it seems he isn’t quite ready to end her life. She undergoes a predicament of being part of his deadly games as form of punishments for her years of her crimes against the royals. All this time spent near the Prince, fighting for her survival under his decrees, takes a turn as she observes that there is more to his cruelty and his court than what initially is observed. Their relationship and intrigue with one another shifts, based in hidden desire and witty banner, and we get to see them cave into opening up to one another.
I absolutely loved digging deeper into the secrets in this one, and it was a wonderful read for October with its dark fairytale vibes. I can confidently say this is my favorite Little Red Riding Hood retelling.
this book is for you if you love:
🍎second match meet ups
🐺Enemies to lovers
🍎Slow burn rom
🐺Dark fairytale vibes
🍎Forced proximity
🐺Red riding hood re-telling
✨voluntary review in thanks for an ARC opportunity✨
October 17, 2025
Small Business BookTok ARC Reviews (BookTome Edition): “Wicked Prince of Carnage” by Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author, and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
"Welcome to the dark world of Grimm, where the villains are as wicked as their desires." - Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell
From the Romantasy author duo Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell comes the third installment in the author-collaborated Fantasy Romance series “Wicked Princes”! This gripping, page-turning Dark Romantasy can be best described as a fresh reimagining of “Red Riding Hood” that incorporates a touch of drama and tension that feels reminiscent of “The Cruel Prince”! The intense tension between Sterling and Winter will have you on the edge of your seat as you witness them grow from bitter enemies torn by centuries of division to lovers that “pack” one heck of a chemistry! (Yes, that is a wolf pun, I have no shame)! Got a craving to dive into the world of “Wicked Princes”? You can witness Red Riding Hood slay her enemies and tango with wolves when this book hits online shelves on October 17, 2025!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 5/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
- Tropes: Dark Romantasy, Second Chance Romance, Enemies-to-Lovers, Wolf Shifters vs. Humans, Kingdom in Conflict, Slow-Burn Romance, Forced Proximity, Morally Gray Red Hooded Wolf Assassin FMC x Morally Gray Wolf Prince MMC, Hidden Secrets, Secret Identity, Deadly Contests, He Falls Firsts, Revenge Narrative, and Evil King Antagonist.
- Trigger Warnings: Depictions of Violence/Gore, Deaths of Loved Ones (Historical), Allegorical Discussions of Brutality and Division, Discussions of Grief, Family Conflict (Father/Son), Discussions of an Affair (Historical), and Discussions/Depictions of Complex Relationship Dynamics.
Note: This ARC was given to me for free by the author, and I am reviewing this book voluntarily.
"Welcome to the dark world of Grimm, where the villains are as wicked as their desires." - Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell
From the Romantasy author duo Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell comes the third installment in the author-collaborated Fantasy Romance series “Wicked Princes”! This gripping, page-turning Dark Romantasy can be best described as a fresh reimagining of “Red Riding Hood” that incorporates a touch of drama and tension that feels reminiscent of “The Cruel Prince”! The intense tension between Sterling and Winter will have you on the edge of your seat as you witness them grow from bitter enemies torn by centuries of division to lovers that “pack” one heck of a chemistry! (Yes, that is a wolf pun, I have no shame)! Got a craving to dive into the world of “Wicked Princes”? You can witness Red Riding Hood slay her enemies and tango with wolves when this book hits online shelves on October 17, 2025!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Meter: 5/5 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
- Tropes: Dark Romantasy, Second Chance Romance, Enemies-to-Lovers, Wolf Shifters vs. Humans, Kingdom in Conflict, Slow-Burn Romance, Forced Proximity, Morally Gray Red Hooded Wolf Assassin FMC x Morally Gray Wolf Prince MMC, Hidden Secrets, Secret Identity, Deadly Contests, He Falls Firsts, Revenge Narrative, and Evil King Antagonist.
- Trigger Warnings: Depictions of Violence/Gore, Deaths of Loved Ones (Historical), Allegorical Discussions of Brutality and Division, Discussions of Grief, Family Conflict (Father/Son), Discussions of an Affair (Historical), and Discussions/Depictions of Complex Relationship Dynamics.
October 4, 2025
Wicked Prince of Carnage is book 3 in the Wicked Princes series and is a standalone book that may be read on its own.
This is quite a wicked way (in a good way that is) to retell the story of Red Riding Hood and the Wolf.
Welcome to Grimm...
Sterling has never known a normal childhood. She watched her mother die giving birth to her younger brother, Cyan. Watched as wolves ripped apart her grandmother for "crimes"... after she thought that she could find sanctuary there. Thought she could learn to use her bow better under the guidance of her grandmother...the Prince sparing her... this time.
Sterling was forced to find other ways, growing up, raising her brother Cyan, and then opening a meat shop to try and sustain themselves... by day she works at the shop, but by night, she is Red Riding Hood, the wolf hunter... going after the Prince's wolves for her own vengeance... to avenge those she lost so long ago. Her bow skills have been improved, honed through her hunting skills...
And then things all change when she runs into the Prince again...except this time, she won't escape the prince's grasp...
This is overall a wonderful retelling of the story of Red Riding Hood, but I had problems with the pacing of the story at times, and with it feeling rushed to some degree... but also I had a bit of a problem with how the spice seemed to be totally and utterly out of nowhere in some areas. If you are looking for a dark retelling with a lot of spice... you will find it in Wicked Prince of Carnage.
Thank you to Candace Robinson and Amber Duell for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at: https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa....
This is quite a wicked way (in a good way that is) to retell the story of Red Riding Hood and the Wolf.
Welcome to Grimm...
Sterling has never known a normal childhood. She watched her mother die giving birth to her younger brother, Cyan. Watched as wolves ripped apart her grandmother for "crimes"... after she thought that she could find sanctuary there. Thought she could learn to use her bow better under the guidance of her grandmother...the Prince sparing her... this time.
Sterling was forced to find other ways, growing up, raising her brother Cyan, and then opening a meat shop to try and sustain themselves... by day she works at the shop, but by night, she is Red Riding Hood, the wolf hunter... going after the Prince's wolves for her own vengeance... to avenge those she lost so long ago. Her bow skills have been improved, honed through her hunting skills...
And then things all change when she runs into the Prince again...except this time, she won't escape the prince's grasp...
This is overall a wonderful retelling of the story of Red Riding Hood, but I had problems with the pacing of the story at times, and with it feeling rushed to some degree... but also I had a bit of a problem with how the spice seemed to be totally and utterly out of nowhere in some areas. If you are looking for a dark retelling with a lot of spice... you will find it in Wicked Prince of Carnage.
Thank you to Candace Robinson and Amber Duell for this copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and the rest of my reviews can be found at: https://littlereapling.wixsite.com/fa....
October 19, 2025
This is the best re-telling of the fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood that I have ever read. It is dark, spicy, romantic, with a morally grey prince wolfshifter, and a daring and courageous human woman. This is the story of Sterling, a young woman left orphaned when her beloved mother died in childbirth, leaving her at fourteen to look after Cyan, her newborn brother. She witnessed the brutal death of her grandmother at the hands of the wolf pack led by the prince. Prince Winter, was better known as the prince of carnage as he brought destruction in his wake. She vowed to take revenge on all who had killed her grandmother and became the best hunter around, killing the wolves one by one in her red cloak. Till she was tricked by Winter, and forced to go to him in order to save her brother's life. Her life became one of fear, and degradation at his hand whilst being held captive, she was forced to partake in 'games' to free her brother, but in the meantime things between her and Winter started to change. This is a story where we have enemies to lovers, in a slow-burn romance, leading to a happily ever after ending. I really enjoyed this great take on the grimm fairy tale, hated Valco the evil brutish king, but loved Cyan and his sweet and kindhearted nature which contrasted so strongly with the viciousness of the wolves. Winter is not at all what he seemed and Sterling is a real kick-ass heroine and I am a real sucker for heroines like her.
November 22, 2025
A wickedly evil retelling of Red Riding Hood. The Prince of Carnage killed her grandmother, so Sterling puts on the red cloak and hunts down all of his wolves seeking revenge. That is until she is captured and held prisoner by the Prince.
I really enjoyed this book and it is my favourite so far in the Wicked Princes series. Each book is written by a different author and is a standalone novel.
Sterling is strong, fierce and a survivor. Prince Winter has definitely met his match with her. He is evil and enjoys making everyone fear him. They are sworn enemies and both seeking revenge.
I loved the enemies to lovers romance. The confusion, the tension, the slow burn passion. I loved it. I rate it 2 🌶️ as there were only a couple of spicy scenes with minimal detail but it was nicely done and not the main part of the story.
There were great side characters too. The King, Talia and Micah were great bad guys. I loved Sterling’s brother Cyan and Amalli too.
This book was well paced, easy to follow and a few twists thrown in there. There was lots of action too.
This was 4.5 ⭐️ for me (rounded up to 5 for Amazon & Goodreads). I really enjoyed it and will be checking out more of the author’s work.
Favourite Quotes
“This momentary infatuation was why she needed to die…”
“For you, I’ll defy the moon.”
“Wicked princes don’t get happy endings—even if they fall in love.”
“Is this what love does to people? Open yourself up, confess your feelings, and suffer for it.”
I really enjoyed this book and it is my favourite so far in the Wicked Princes series. Each book is written by a different author and is a standalone novel.
Sterling is strong, fierce and a survivor. Prince Winter has definitely met his match with her. He is evil and enjoys making everyone fear him. They are sworn enemies and both seeking revenge.
I loved the enemies to lovers romance. The confusion, the tension, the slow burn passion. I loved it. I rate it 2 🌶️ as there were only a couple of spicy scenes with minimal detail but it was nicely done and not the main part of the story.
There were great side characters too. The King, Talia and Micah were great bad guys. I loved Sterling’s brother Cyan and Amalli too.
This book was well paced, easy to follow and a few twists thrown in there. There was lots of action too.
This was 4.5 ⭐️ for me (rounded up to 5 for Amazon & Goodreads). I really enjoyed it and will be checking out more of the author’s work.
Favourite Quotes
“This momentary infatuation was why she needed to die…”
“For you, I’ll defy the moon.”
“Wicked princes don’t get happy endings—even if they fall in love.”
“Is this what love does to people? Open yourself up, confess your feelings, and suffer for it.”
October 1, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It was hard to put down and really sucked me into the world. I couldn't wait to see how it ended. The characters really stayed with me too. There is an enemies to lovers trope. I would highly recommend this book.
Sterling had a rough life growing up. She watched her mom die during childbirth with her brother and then after trekking through the woods to her grandmother's house, she watched wolves kill her grandmother. Sterling grew up, raised her brother Cyan, and ran a meat shop in town. On the side, her vengeance led her to killing the wolves that killed her grandmother. But once again, her life is about to change.
Prince Winter can't get the girl that he warned and let go out several years ago of his head. Winter is dealing with his father's attempted assassination and members of his wolf pack are getting killed by the Red Riding Hood. By chance he sees the mystery girl in town and tracks her down. While waiting for her at her house, he discovers her secret. Now Winter is going to make her suffer slowly.
I received this book as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sterling had a rough life growing up. She watched her mom die during childbirth with her brother and then after trekking through the woods to her grandmother's house, she watched wolves kill her grandmother. Sterling grew up, raised her brother Cyan, and ran a meat shop in town. On the side, her vengeance led her to killing the wolves that killed her grandmother. But once again, her life is about to change.
Prince Winter can't get the girl that he warned and let go out several years ago of his head. Winter is dealing with his father's attempted assassination and members of his wolf pack are getting killed by the Red Riding Hood. By chance he sees the mystery girl in town and tracks her down. While waiting for her at her house, he discovers her secret. Now Winter is going to make her suffer slowly.
I received this book as an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2025
Wolf shifters, a young woman determined to survive, and a red cloak - it’s Wicked Prince of Carnage.
At 14, Sterling was left alone with her newborn brother. Her only option was to travel through the forest to visit her grandmother. Unfortunately their arrival coincided with a visit from the Prince of Carnage - Winter, Prince of the Wolves. Sterling was forced to watch as his men brutally killed her grandmother before they leave her physically scarred.
Years later, the Wolves are being systematically hunted by a figure in a red cloak they have named Red Riding Hood. In a world where the humans are below the Wolves and are subject to their whims, she is a symbol of hope.
Determined to destroy her, Winter takes the only thing that matters to Sterling - her brother Cyan. Sterling will do anything to save him - and that’s exactly what Winter is counting on.
This is a true enemies to lovers story, with both characters out for the other’s blood at the start of the book. Winter keeps Sterling as a pet in a cage, aiming to humiliate her. Over many interactions, they begin to respect each other, gradually admitting their attraction.
At 14, Sterling was left alone with her newborn brother. Her only option was to travel through the forest to visit her grandmother. Unfortunately their arrival coincided with a visit from the Prince of Carnage - Winter, Prince of the Wolves. Sterling was forced to watch as his men brutally killed her grandmother before they leave her physically scarred.
Years later, the Wolves are being systematically hunted by a figure in a red cloak they have named Red Riding Hood. In a world where the humans are below the Wolves and are subject to their whims, she is a symbol of hope.
Determined to destroy her, Winter takes the only thing that matters to Sterling - her brother Cyan. Sterling will do anything to save him - and that’s exactly what Winter is counting on.
This is a true enemies to lovers story, with both characters out for the other’s blood at the start of the book. Winter keeps Sterling as a pet in a cage, aiming to humiliate her. Over many interactions, they begin to respect each other, gradually admitting their attraction.
October 17, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
What a ride! Wicked Prince of Carnage is a dark and addictive Red Riding Hood retelling that delivers on everything I love—true enemies to lovers, intense tension, and twists I didn’t see coming. The world-building was rich, the writing completely pulled me in, and the pacing was on point. I couldn’t get enough of the dynamic between Sterling and Winter.
Sterling is a strong, layered heroine—fiercely loyal, driven by vengeance, and determined to protect her little brother after their mother’s death. Then there’s Prince Winter… cruel, commanding, and deliciously unhinged. A total morally gray villain you hate to love (and love to hate).
Their chemistry? Off the charts. The slow-burn tension, the danger, the power struggle—it was everything.
This story delivers heart, heat, and just the right touch of darkness. If you’re into spicy fairytale retellings with fierce heroines and dangerously irresistible villains, you need this in your life.
Thank you so much Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
What a ride! Wicked Prince of Carnage is a dark and addictive Red Riding Hood retelling that delivers on everything I love—true enemies to lovers, intense tension, and twists I didn’t see coming. The world-building was rich, the writing completely pulled me in, and the pacing was on point. I couldn’t get enough of the dynamic between Sterling and Winter.
Sterling is a strong, layered heroine—fiercely loyal, driven by vengeance, and determined to protect her little brother after their mother’s death. Then there’s Prince Winter… cruel, commanding, and deliciously unhinged. A total morally gray villain you hate to love (and love to hate).
Their chemistry? Off the charts. The slow-burn tension, the danger, the power struggle—it was everything.
This story delivers heart, heat, and just the right touch of darkness. If you’re into spicy fairytale retellings with fierce heroines and dangerously irresistible villains, you need this in your life.
Thank you so much Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 18, 2025
This was a fun twist on a red riding hood retelling.
Winter and Sterling were a fun pair. Her grandma killed his mother so he had her grandma killed. It just so happened that Sterling and her newborn brother Cyan just arrived at their grandma’s to live with her after their mother died in childbirth. Eight years later Sterling and the Wicked Prince meet again.
I loved watching Winter and how he treated Sterling throughout the book. He wants her dead but will it actually happen? Will she die in his games or will she find a way to win?
The twists involving his father, the king, I was not expecting and one had me completely shocked and staring at a wall for a few minutes. Another had me questioning things but at the same time I wasn’t surprised after getting to know his father some.
Overall I really liked this book and loved how in the end everyone got what they deserved. I read this book as an arc.
Winter and Sterling were a fun pair. Her grandma killed his mother so he had her grandma killed. It just so happened that Sterling and her newborn brother Cyan just arrived at their grandma’s to live with her after their mother died in childbirth. Eight years later Sterling and the Wicked Prince meet again.
I loved watching Winter and how he treated Sterling throughout the book. He wants her dead but will it actually happen? Will she die in his games or will she find a way to win?
The twists involving his father, the king, I was not expecting and one had me completely shocked and staring at a wall for a few minutes. Another had me questioning things but at the same time I wasn’t surprised after getting to know his father some.
Overall I really liked this book and loved how in the end everyone got what they deserved. I read this book as an arc.
October 28, 2025
ARC read
A deliciously dark Red Riding Hood retelling!
I was immediately drawn in, by the characters!
When we first meet Sterling, she is a young woman traveling the forest with her baby brother, going to her Grandmothers house.
8 years later she is a scarred beautiful woman, hunting to survive, scraping by in her Butcher shop, trying to feed herself and her brother.
But Sterling has a secret. And the thing about secrets is that they always come to light.
Ever since he saw the young woman in the forest, Prince Winter felt drawn to her.
Living beside his Father, King Valco, he's had to adapt to the brutality of the pack.
But Prince Winter has a secret. And the thing about secrets is they always come to light...
I was kindly sent an advanced copy of this book, but this review reflects my honest opinion of the book.
A deliciously dark Red Riding Hood retelling!
I was immediately drawn in, by the characters!
When we first meet Sterling, she is a young woman traveling the forest with her baby brother, going to her Grandmothers house.
8 years later she is a scarred beautiful woman, hunting to survive, scraping by in her Butcher shop, trying to feed herself and her brother.
But Sterling has a secret. And the thing about secrets is that they always come to light.
Ever since he saw the young woman in the forest, Prince Winter felt drawn to her.
Living beside his Father, King Valco, he's had to adapt to the brutality of the pack.
But Prince Winter has a secret. And the thing about secrets is they always come to light...
I was kindly sent an advanced copy of this book, but this review reflects my honest opinion of the book.
October 14, 2025
This red riding hood dark romantasy fairytale retelling was delicious, and I devoured it in one day. Check your triggers for this forced proximity, enemies to lovers journey. Sterling is our FMC and oh boy do I love a strong badass FMC who was forced to be a survivor but a self-made vigilante. Somehow Raven still maintains a heart through it all and bless her for that! Prince Winter is our dark MMC who does not disappoint in the morally dark dark gray department. The story is full of suspense and the angst between our MCs is just chef's kiss as they go from wanting to kill each other (literally) to so much more. These two are such forces by themselves that they were bound to be explosive together!
October 16, 2025
Book 3 of the Wicked Princes is another success! I LOVE this entire series. Once again, the world building was amazing. The character growth was on point and the amount of tension had me reading non-stop. Of the three books, this was the spiciest and I appreciated every letter. Winter is my kind of MMC and has joined the ranks amongst my fictional boyfriends. Sterling is a fiesty FMC and mean with a bow and arrow. She'll do anything to protect her little brother. The emotional turmoil, trauma, and hardships she experienced made her a well-rounded character. For those who love shifter romances, pick this book up and give it a read. You won't be disappointed.
September 24, 2025
Wicked Prince of Carnage is a dark and twisted retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, with a chilling twist. What if Red was there to witness what really happened when the wolf came for Grandma?
The characters are vivid, the plot is engaging, and the setting feels perfect. The pacing, however, did feel a bit rushed at times, which pulled me out of the story here and there. Still, the unique spin and strong writing make this a fun and memorable read.
Highly recommended for fans of twisted fairy tales and dark retellings.
The characters are vivid, the plot is engaging, and the setting feels perfect. The pacing, however, did feel a bit rushed at times, which pulled me out of the story here and there. Still, the unique spin and strong writing make this a fun and memorable read.
Highly recommended for fans of twisted fairy tales and dark retellings.
October 6, 2025
Wicked Prince of Carnage turned out to be an interesting and engaging story. I was delightfully surprised. It has a true enemies to lovers feel. The language and some of the story bits (won't share for spoilers) kind of pulled me out at times but over all this was a fun, dark, retelling of the Red Riding Hood story. It would have benefitted from a bit more backstory or tie-ins but I suppose sometimes that just doesn't work in a story of it's size. Would definitely recommend if you're looking for a good quick read.
October 20, 2025
Revenge romances with redemption arcs are the best and this doesn’t disappoint.
Sterling is out to get Winter for the wrong that was done to her. I like her determination, grit, and her family loyalty. She is strong in character and in belief when she had sole responsibility for her baby brother. Winter is the big bad, but Sterling’s influence changes him fundamentally. Winter is the sort of character you love to hate, but secretly you want him to get the girl.
This book has heart and is a great read
Sterling is out to get Winter for the wrong that was done to her. I like her determination, grit, and her family loyalty. She is strong in character and in belief when she had sole responsibility for her baby brother. Winter is the big bad, but Sterling’s influence changes him fundamentally. Winter is the sort of character you love to hate, but secretly you want him to get the girl.
This book has heart and is a great read
October 22, 2025
Sterling & Winter - A Red Riding Hood Retellings
This was such a great read, couldn’t put it down, read it in one day!
Who is the villain? Depends who you ask…
This is a true enemies to lovers Romantasy, wrapped up in a Red Riding Hood Fairytale Retellings, amazingly written.
The plot is surprisingly good with twists all through the story, making you question what comes next.
The characters are tangled in a love-to-hate-you situationship that keeps you wondering when they will finally give in and just get it on. And I love the romantic gestures.
This was such a great read, couldn’t put it down, read it in one day!
Who is the villain? Depends who you ask…
This is a true enemies to lovers Romantasy, wrapped up in a Red Riding Hood Fairytale Retellings, amazingly written.
The plot is surprisingly good with twists all through the story, making you question what comes next.
The characters are tangled in a love-to-hate-you situationship that keeps you wondering when they will finally give in and just get it on. And I love the romantic gestures.
December 1, 2025
Get ready to read this amazing Red Riding Hood retelling, where the wolves are actually werewolves and rule over the humans. Meet Winter and Sterling. Winter is the Wicked Prince. He is deadly, feared, and very much a werewolf. Sterling is Red Riding Hood, the elusive hunter known for killing werewolves after they brutally murdered her grandmother.
Sterling wants revenge and will stop at nothing to get it. She’s a survivor, raising her much younger brother on her own. She’s also so very stubborn and dangerous, and you’ll just love her.
Winter is savage, cruel, dangerous, and the sole heir to the kingdom. When he captures Sterling, using her brother as bait, he quickly realizes she’s far more than what he knew about her. As the two are forced together, in his room, their feelings start to change, and Sterling begins to see a softer, and caring side of Winter behind closed doors.
Overall, I loved this retelling. The twists, the tension, and the ending was just perfect for Sterling and Winter. This is the perfect Red Riding Hood retelling.
Sterling wants revenge and will stop at nothing to get it. She’s a survivor, raising her much younger brother on her own. She’s also so very stubborn and dangerous, and you’ll just love her.
Winter is savage, cruel, dangerous, and the sole heir to the kingdom. When he captures Sterling, using her brother as bait, he quickly realizes she’s far more than what he knew about her. As the two are forced together, in his room, their feelings start to change, and Sterling begins to see a softer, and caring side of Winter behind closed doors.
Overall, I loved this retelling. The twists, the tension, and the ending was just perfect for Sterling and Winter. This is the perfect Red Riding Hood retelling.
September 26, 2025
This is quite the twist on the Red Riding Hood tale. The interactions and misunderstandings between Winter and Sterling kept me reading just to see if one would kill the other. While I expected that they would mate, the way the author brought them together was gloriously steamy, dark and oh so wolfy. This retelling is not for children or new adults, but fans of Lidiya Foxglove should feel right at home.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2025
ARC review. This is a very interesting take on Little Red Riding Hood. Instead of a innocent little girl, the FMC is a very lethal woman. The MMC is not the big bad wolf he wants the world to think he is. I was a little disappointed Sterling changed her mind so quickly with not much effort from Winter. Really would have liked a little more angst and development there. All in all a good read with a HEA.
October 13, 2025
Wicked Prince of Carnage was an amazingly fun tale with a massive twist on little red Riding Hood. This girl is trying to take care of her brother because their mother has died, and she comes in contact with Prince Winter. Also known as the prince of Carnage. He is a werewolf shifter and the girls family are hunters.
It is a twisted and lustful story that will keep you guessing. The twists and turns are not expected and very much welcome. You totally have to read this, I'm glad I did!
It is a twisted and lustful story that will keep you guessing. The twists and turns are not expected and very much welcome. You totally have to read this, I'm glad I did!
October 13, 2025
when Sterling's grandmotheris brutally killed by the Wicked Prince of Carnage she takes up the Mantle of Red Riding Hood and starts offing his wolf pack. but it turns out Winter had a reason to off her GM she killed his mother. when Prince Winter captures Sterling he tells her she has to compete in his deadly games and become a spectacle for his people if she lives then Winter lets her brother go free. if she loses oh well. But along the way these enemies start to become more.
October 14, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 2.5 🌶️
A "Grimm" and twisted retelling of Red Riding Hood.
A vicious wolf-shifter Prince and an orphan who hunts the pack who murdered her grandmother and made her watch, leaving both emotional and physical scars. A true, enemies-to-lovers dark fairytale, with forced proximity and deadly trials. Be advised, there's explicit language and gore at a mild level. Spice is mid. Highly recommend for those who prefer the grittier side of fairytales.
A "Grimm" and twisted retelling of Red Riding Hood.
A vicious wolf-shifter Prince and an orphan who hunts the pack who murdered her grandmother and made her watch, leaving both emotional and physical scars. A true, enemies-to-lovers dark fairytale, with forced proximity and deadly trials. Be advised, there's explicit language and gore at a mild level. Spice is mid. Highly recommend for those who prefer the grittier side of fairytales.
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