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To Win a Dark Heart
Falling for the Sorcerer
Once upon a time, he would have burned the world for her
But she ran away from their happily ever after.
Now they must find a way to work together if they want to break twin curses.
Gothel was once the most eligible maiden in the Empire. But when her little sister is endangered, she has no choice but to steal her away. Abandoning the man who claims to love her, Gothel dedicates herself to raising her sister in an isolated tower where no one can ever find them. Her enchantments further protect them from any intruder. Or so she thinks . . .
Rothbart was once the most feared sorcerer in the land. But when his gamble to win the hand of the woman he loves backfires, he's left with nothing but a broken heart and a feathered prince in need of a guardian. Swearing off love, Rothbart has no choice but to exchange his plans of world domination for an honest trade to support the family he never asked for. At least he never has to see Gothel again . . .
Everyone's plans go out the window when their teenage charges cross paths and trigger twin curses. Now Gothel and Rothbart must find a way to work together if they want to save their families. If they can put their bitterness aside, they might just be able to survive their joint quest. But resisting falling back into love? That is another matter entirely.
Falling for the Sorcerer is a retelling that combines elements of Rapunzel and Swan Lake. Part quest and part awkward-family-road-trip, this no-spice romantasy is brimming with magic, humor, and swoony second-chance kisses. It is the seventh book of the To Win a Dark Heart series retelling tales as old as time, but this time it's the villains' turn to get a happy ending.
But she ran away from their happily ever after.
Now they must find a way to work together if they want to break twin curses.
Gothel was once the most eligible maiden in the Empire. But when her little sister is endangered, she has no choice but to steal her away. Abandoning the man who claims to love her, Gothel dedicates herself to raising her sister in an isolated tower where no one can ever find them. Her enchantments further protect them from any intruder. Or so she thinks . . .
Rothbart was once the most feared sorcerer in the land. But when his gamble to win the hand of the woman he loves backfires, he's left with nothing but a broken heart and a feathered prince in need of a guardian. Swearing off love, Rothbart has no choice but to exchange his plans of world domination for an honest trade to support the family he never asked for. At least he never has to see Gothel again . . .
Everyone's plans go out the window when their teenage charges cross paths and trigger twin curses. Now Gothel and Rothbart must find a way to work together if they want to save their families. If they can put their bitterness aside, they might just be able to survive their joint quest. But resisting falling back into love? That is another matter entirely.
Falling for the Sorcerer is a retelling that combines elements of Rapunzel and Swan Lake. Part quest and part awkward-family-road-trip, this no-spice romantasy is brimming with magic, humor, and swoony second-chance kisses. It is the seventh book of the To Win a Dark Heart series retelling tales as old as time, but this time it's the villains' turn to get a happy ending.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 27, 2026
About the author
Jes Drew
79 books553 followersJes Drew is the author of 60+ books including the Cursed Fae of Orphydice Manor Series, the Sunset at Dawn trilogy, Love of Legends, and Bound by Death.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. A gremlin that resembles a cat keeps her busy when she's not writing about hard-won happily ever afters.
She has three degrees, including a Master of Arts in Behavioral Counseling. A gremlin that resembles a cat keeps her busy when she's not writing about hard-won happily ever afters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Did Not Finish
March 16, 2026DNF @ pg 94
They kissed at their first meeting, the dude is a widower and his child was there. It was just really disturbing especially since I’m pretty sure there was an age gap? Not sure tho.
Blood dark magic
Witches
Mentions of the birds and the bees
Dude calls girl a vixen
Guy is nude every time he transforms.
Yeah, I was a fan of this one, especially with how they treated each other and the people around them.
They kissed at their first meeting, the dude is a widower and his child was there. It was just really disturbing especially since I’m pretty sure there was an age gap? Not sure tho.
Blood dark magic
Witches
Mentions of the birds and the bees
Dude calls girl a vixen
Guy is nude every time he transforms.
Yeah, I was a fan of this one, especially with how they treated each other and the people around them.
January 22, 2026
****Actual Rating 4.5 Stars****
This has got to be the most unique yet original mashup of Rapunzel and Swan Lake I’ve ever seen, read, or heard of, and it’s so stinking good!
Our main characters, Gothel and Rothbart, are “villains” with jaded hearts of gold for each other and their young charges, and let me tell you do all of them together make for the most delightful and chaotic traveling family circus with a side of magic I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. The fact that Gothel and Rothbart are both older adds another unique layer as well, especially since this is a second chance romance for them which combined with their pasts and rather crusty natures at times made for a lot of frustrations and laughs on my end. And the constant gag about about Rothbart’s back and him not wanting to sleep on the floor was pure gold, lol.
The teens get into their own antics and the way they got on their guardians’ nerves and they in turn got on the kids’ was hilarious and I loved seeing how they all loved and respected each other in their own unique ways, no matter how much they annoyed or argued with each other.
As for the retelling aspect, Jes managed to keep the originals intact to a degree while also putting her own twists on both without losing that fairy tale charm, darkness, and wonder, of which I can only judge on Rapunzel the most seeing as I don’t know as much about Swan Lake, aside that the OG ends sadly which this retelling certainly doesn’t. I love how this story acts as a sequel to both tales but also its own story at the same time, it was very well crafted and executed!
There are also several cameos from Jes’s other books set in this world of which I only knew Konrad from Trapped By Vengeance, who I enjoyed seeing again and hearing what he’s been up to since the end of his book. Hopefully I’ll be in the mood to read the other books the rest of characters star in sometime soon as I liked quite a few of them and would love to get to know them more!
I throughly enjoyed my time with this beautiful gem and I honestly can’t wait for the next time I’m in the mood to reread it!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character was almost sold into a child marriage (didn’t happen); a character was almost sold to the black market as a child
Violence: fighting with magic (not detailed); a werwolf chases and almost attacks a character; a man’s first wife was murdered over gambling debts (not shown or detailed); a character’s threatened to be burned at the stake; a character is beaten by a mob (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: a man is naked when he shifts between swan and human forms (nothing’s shown); kissing (not to semi detailed); mild suggestive hints/comments; a character was almost sold into a child marriage (didn’t happen)
Alcohol/Drugs: characters drink ale
Other: magic; magical abilities/powers; characters use what are called “dark arts” and spellbooks in a fantasy world (which is nothing like real life witchcraft); a character is a sorcerer; a character was almost sold to the black market as a child; characters are cursed; a character is a werwolf/turns into one; characters are captured/tied up; a man’s first wife gambled; characters are accused of witchcraft
****Note: I received a free copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are most assuredly my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. If I was I wouldn’t have read it. 😜****
This has got to be the most unique yet original mashup of Rapunzel and Swan Lake I’ve ever seen, read, or heard of, and it’s so stinking good!
Our main characters, Gothel and Rothbart, are “villains” with jaded hearts of gold for each other and their young charges, and let me tell you do all of them together make for the most delightful and chaotic traveling family circus with a side of magic I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. The fact that Gothel and Rothbart are both older adds another unique layer as well, especially since this is a second chance romance for them which combined with their pasts and rather crusty natures at times made for a lot of frustrations and laughs on my end. And the constant gag about about Rothbart’s back and him not wanting to sleep on the floor was pure gold, lol.
The teens get into their own antics and the way they got on their guardians’ nerves and they in turn got on the kids’ was hilarious and I loved seeing how they all loved and respected each other in their own unique ways, no matter how much they annoyed or argued with each other.
As for the retelling aspect, Jes managed to keep the originals intact to a degree while also putting her own twists on both without losing that fairy tale charm, darkness, and wonder, of which I can only judge on Rapunzel the most seeing as I don’t know as much about Swan Lake, aside that the OG ends sadly which this retelling certainly doesn’t. I love how this story acts as a sequel to both tales but also its own story at the same time, it was very well crafted and executed!
There are also several cameos from Jes’s other books set in this world of which I only knew Konrad from Trapped By Vengeance, who I enjoyed seeing again and hearing what he’s been up to since the end of his book. Hopefully I’ll be in the mood to read the other books the rest of characters star in sometime soon as I liked quite a few of them and would love to get to know them more!
I throughly enjoyed my time with this beautiful gem and I honestly can’t wait for the next time I’m in the mood to reread it!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character was almost sold into a child marriage (didn’t happen); a character was almost sold to the black market as a child
Violence: fighting with magic (not detailed); a werwolf chases and almost attacks a character; a man’s first wife was murdered over gambling debts (not shown or detailed); a character’s threatened to be burned at the stake; a character is beaten by a mob (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: a man is naked when he shifts between swan and human forms (nothing’s shown); kissing (not to semi detailed); mild suggestive hints/comments; a character was almost sold into a child marriage (didn’t happen)
Alcohol/Drugs: characters drink ale
Other: magic; magical abilities/powers; characters use what are called “dark arts” and spellbooks in a fantasy world (which is nothing like real life witchcraft); a character is a sorcerer; a character was almost sold to the black market as a child; characters are cursed; a character is a werwolf/turns into one; characters are captured/tied up; a man’s first wife gambled; characters are accused of witchcraft
****Note: I received a free copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are most assuredly my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. If I was I wouldn’t have read it. 😜****
January 14, 2026
ARC Review- Falling for the Sorcerer by Jes Drew.
I struggled to get through this one a bit but it picked up in the end and I’m glad I finished it.
I think the extreme stubbornness of the characters was a bit too much for me and got annoyed at some point, especially at Gothel.
It was a nice mix between Rapunzel and the Swan lake stories which just fitted seamlessly. Jes’s writing is easy to read and follow.
I will recommend this one to any reader who enjoys clean fairytale retellings.
I struggled to get through this one a bit but it picked up in the end and I’m glad I finished it.
I think the extreme stubbornness of the characters was a bit too much for me and got annoyed at some point, especially at Gothel.
It was a nice mix between Rapunzel and the Swan lake stories which just fitted seamlessly. Jes’s writing is easy to read and follow.
I will recommend this one to any reader who enjoys clean fairytale retellings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Forget everything you know about the stories of "Swan Lake" and "Rapunzel" because this book takes both in a completely new direction. Falling for the Sorcerer is a second-chance romance about two worldly parental figures who put their caretaker duties before romance, even if it means needing to dabble in dark magic in the process. It introduces a young and more glamorous version of Gothel, the older sister of Rapunzel, who brings her to a tower to protect her from their greedy parents, who want to marry them both off to wealthy strangers. Rothbart works for Gothel's betrothed and is determined to protect her from her wicked fiancé until she runs away, forcing him to devote his energy to raising his daughter, Odile, and the cursed younger brother of his former employer.
Although this is a clean retelling, it feels more mature than other fairy tale retellings due to the advanced ages of the protagonists, who differ from the typical wide-eyed, innocent ingénues these stories often focus on. Both Gothel and Rothbart are cynical and jaded from their experiences and fully devoted to protecting their young charges. When they reunite, they have lots of baggage and adult responsibilities standing in their way. It takes time for them to realize that they can tackle these responsibilities together instead of stubbornly refusing their own happiness in favor of the younger generation.
This was certainly the most original take I have ever read of either one of these stories, but the vast differences made it difficult for me to enjoy as a fairy tale retelling. These characters and their stories diverge so far from the classic fairy tales that if the names had been changed, it could have worked as an original fantasy or even a contemporary romance for adult readers. Still, the little nods to the fairy tales were fun and clever as these two dark magic users struggled to see the light and allow themselves a chance at happiness.
Falling for the Sorcerer is a unique villainous retelling that offers a fresh take on "Swan Lake" and "Rapunzel," with complex and relatable protagonists who will resonate with older readers. While it may not be a traditional fairy tale retelling, Jes Drew's story shines as an original fantasy romance, exploring themes of love, protection, and self-discovery. If you're looking for a mature and atmospheric read with a focus on character development, Falling for the Sorcerer is definitely worth checking out.
Although this is a clean retelling, it feels more mature than other fairy tale retellings due to the advanced ages of the protagonists, who differ from the typical wide-eyed, innocent ingénues these stories often focus on. Both Gothel and Rothbart are cynical and jaded from their experiences and fully devoted to protecting their young charges. When they reunite, they have lots of baggage and adult responsibilities standing in their way. It takes time for them to realize that they can tackle these responsibilities together instead of stubbornly refusing their own happiness in favor of the younger generation.
This was certainly the most original take I have ever read of either one of these stories, but the vast differences made it difficult for me to enjoy as a fairy tale retelling. These characters and their stories diverge so far from the classic fairy tales that if the names had been changed, it could have worked as an original fantasy or even a contemporary romance for adult readers. Still, the little nods to the fairy tales were fun and clever as these two dark magic users struggled to see the light and allow themselves a chance at happiness.
Falling for the Sorcerer is a unique villainous retelling that offers a fresh take on "Swan Lake" and "Rapunzel," with complex and relatable protagonists who will resonate with older readers. While it may not be a traditional fairy tale retelling, Jes Drew's story shines as an original fantasy romance, exploring themes of love, protection, and self-discovery. If you're looking for a mature and atmospheric read with a focus on character development, Falling for the Sorcerer is definitely worth checking out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a wonderful retelling mashup of Rapunzel and Swan Lake. The villains were not what I was expecting at all. Their loyal devotion to their charges was admirable, and how they came to be their protectors was heartbreaking. I loved that no matter the amount of time that Gothel and Rothbart were apart, their love for the other remained (even if they were in denial). Having the story told in each of their perspectives gave such deep insights to how everything came to be. I enjoyed the twists that the author took with each story and how she made it her own. I definitely recommend this no-spice fantasy to any fairytale reader!
Gothel and Rothbart are in hiding from horrible fates. If only they had been together the last 16 years life wouldn't have felt so dreadful. Gothel has spent her time protecting her sister, Rapunzel, while Rothbart has been protecting his daughter, Odile, and the boy he cursed, Siegfried. When their paths collide again a twin curse is triggered. However, they don't know if it's actually a blessing in disguise. While fighting to protect their charges they find themselves and the love they tried to bury.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
Gothel and Rothbart are in hiding from horrible fates. If only they had been together the last 16 years life wouldn't have felt so dreadful. Gothel has spent her time protecting her sister, Rapunzel, while Rothbart has been protecting his daughter, Odile, and the boy he cursed, Siegfried. When their paths collide again a twin curse is triggered. However, they don't know if it's actually a blessing in disguise. While fighting to protect their charges they find themselves and the love they tried to bury.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
April 2, 2026
Once upon a time … a combination of Ralunzel and the Swan Lake in a very original setting!
The characters are villains, with a soft and golden heart.
The story was enjoyable and I read it with a smile on my face! Very interesting!
It’s a sweet romance without spice, a relaxing and comfortable read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The characters are villains, with a soft and golden heart.
The story was enjoyable and I read it with a smile on my face! Very interesting!
It’s a sweet romance without spice, a relaxing and comfortable read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 27, 2026
4.5 stars
When I went into Falling for the Sorcerer I did not know what to expect. Rapunzel and Swan Lake are an odd combination. Then again, all of the books in the To Win a Dark Heart series have been interesting combinations and they just work. This book is no different. It was a mix of a fun almost roadtrip-type adventure and some slightly more emotional elements.
I’m going to be honest. I’m always uncomfortable with the use of dark magic by the main characters. I do, however, think that this story does a good job showing its negative effects and that nobody is too far gone for a happily ever after. I also knew going into this story that we were dealing with a couple of villains. In this case, Gothel and Rothbart were definitely formed by painful past circumstances.
The romance was adorable! This is a second-chance story and the characters are a little older and I liked how it created a different dynamic. There are teenagers underfoot and things are not as simple as they used to be. I loved how Gothel and Rothbart are still so flirty and banter-filled. Also, one of my favorite moments might be something to do with the one-bed trope. It was so awkward and cute! Gothel and Rothbart are very family oriented and protective, which lead to some very sweet situations. There were also some very humorous scenes that come with having three teenagers tagging along. I loved the scenes with Siegfried. He was such a funny “swan”. The overall feeling of a found-family was great. All in all, I enjoyed what a wild ride this story was.
Thank you to Jes Drew for an ARC of Falling for the Sorcerer! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Rating: 2-2.5 lots of flirty interactions and medium kissing
Language: clean
Faith-Elements: 🐑 brief mentions of the Creator
When I went into Falling for the Sorcerer I did not know what to expect. Rapunzel and Swan Lake are an odd combination. Then again, all of the books in the To Win a Dark Heart series have been interesting combinations and they just work. This book is no different. It was a mix of a fun almost roadtrip-type adventure and some slightly more emotional elements.
I’m going to be honest. I’m always uncomfortable with the use of dark magic by the main characters. I do, however, think that this story does a good job showing its negative effects and that nobody is too far gone for a happily ever after. I also knew going into this story that we were dealing with a couple of villains. In this case, Gothel and Rothbart were definitely formed by painful past circumstances.
The romance was adorable! This is a second-chance story and the characters are a little older and I liked how it created a different dynamic. There are teenagers underfoot and things are not as simple as they used to be. I loved how Gothel and Rothbart are still so flirty and banter-filled. Also, one of my favorite moments might be something to do with the one-bed trope. It was so awkward and cute! Gothel and Rothbart are very family oriented and protective, which lead to some very sweet situations. There were also some very humorous scenes that come with having three teenagers tagging along. I loved the scenes with Siegfried. He was such a funny “swan”. The overall feeling of a found-family was great. All in all, I enjoyed what a wild ride this story was.
Thank you to Jes Drew for an ARC of Falling for the Sorcerer! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Rating: 2-2.5 lots of flirty interactions and medium kissing
Language: clean
Faith-Elements: 🐑 brief mentions of the Creator
Review of advance copy
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Falling for the Sorcerer was an unexpectedly fun and intriguing story to read.
A retelling of "Rapunzel" in which Gothel is not a kidnapper obsessed with being young but a fierce older sister who will do anything to protect Rapunzel, even if it means abandoning the man she loves.
Unlike in "Swan Lake", Rothbart isn't a villainous sorcerer but a dedicated father who doesn't curse Odile but Siegfried in an attempt to save the woman he loves.
Unfortunately, both for Gothel and Rothbart, fate forces them apart for sixteen years before an incident compells them to travel together.
I was not expecting to love this as much as I did. Gothel and Rothbart had moments of humour but also tragedy and tension. This is a second-chance romance, and I think the author did an amazing job of portraying their complex relationship, as well as their relationships with other characters. The last couple of chapters had me in such a suspense I couldn't put the book down.
A clean romance that felt so much mature because of our protagonists' ages and their willingness to put their children (or sister, in Gothel's case) before anyone else (as any good parent should do).
The characters were written so well, the world-building was interesting, and the humour made everything better. Plus, Rothbart is a green flag, which only made me love this story even more (because, seriously, how can you not love a green flag?).
I did not read the previous books, but I have to say this story convinced me to add the others to my TBR, as well as leading me to notice that this series is written by less known authors, so this will be an amazing opportunity to discover more books.
Falling for the Sorcerer was an unexpectedly fun and intriguing story to read.
A retelling of "Rapunzel" in which Gothel is not a kidnapper obsessed with being young but a fierce older sister who will do anything to protect Rapunzel, even if it means abandoning the man she loves.
Unlike in "Swan Lake", Rothbart isn't a villainous sorcerer but a dedicated father who doesn't curse Odile but Siegfried in an attempt to save the woman he loves.
Unfortunately, both for Gothel and Rothbart, fate forces them apart for sixteen years before an incident compells them to travel together.
I was not expecting to love this as much as I did. Gothel and Rothbart had moments of humour but also tragedy and tension. This is a second-chance romance, and I think the author did an amazing job of portraying their complex relationship, as well as their relationships with other characters. The last couple of chapters had me in such a suspense I couldn't put the book down.
A clean romance that felt so much mature because of our protagonists' ages and their willingness to put their children (or sister, in Gothel's case) before anyone else (as any good parent should do).
The characters were written so well, the world-building was interesting, and the humour made everything better. Plus, Rothbart is a green flag, which only made me love this story even more (because, seriously, how can you not love a green flag?).
I did not read the previous books, but I have to say this story convinced me to add the others to my TBR, as well as leading me to notice that this series is written by less known authors, so this will be an amazing opportunity to discover more books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Sorcerer ended up being far more heartfelt than I expected. While there’s plenty of magic, curses, and fairy-tale flair, the story is really about people who’ve lived a bit, made mistakes, and are trying to do better — even when it’s uncomfortable.
Gothel is easy to understand, even when you don’t fully agree with her choices. Her protectiveness over her sister feels real, not exaggerated, and her isolation makes emotional sense. Rothbart completely won me over. Watching a once-terrifying sorcerer swap world domination for responsibility, steady work, and reluctant parenthood is both funny and surprisingly touching. His dry humour pairs perfectly with Gothel’s sharper edges.
The cursed-quest storyline keeps things moving, but it never overwhelms the characters. The forced-together, awkward family road-trip vibe gives the book its charm, with plenty of small moments where old feelings resurface — usually at the worst possible time. The romance is gentle and slow, with no spice, but it doesn’t feel lacking. The longing, regret, and second-chance tenderness carry far more weight than anything explicit ever could.
The Rapunzel and Swan Lake influences are woven in naturally, and the idea of giving the “villains” their own happy ending feels both clever and comforting. By the end, I wasn’t just entertained — I genuinely cared. It’s warm, funny, and quietly romantic, the kind of book that leaves you smiling once you’ve turned the last page.
Gothel is easy to understand, even when you don’t fully agree with her choices. Her protectiveness over her sister feels real, not exaggerated, and her isolation makes emotional sense. Rothbart completely won me over. Watching a once-terrifying sorcerer swap world domination for responsibility, steady work, and reluctant parenthood is both funny and surprisingly touching. His dry humour pairs perfectly with Gothel’s sharper edges.
The cursed-quest storyline keeps things moving, but it never overwhelms the characters. The forced-together, awkward family road-trip vibe gives the book its charm, with plenty of small moments where old feelings resurface — usually at the worst possible time. The romance is gentle and slow, with no spice, but it doesn’t feel lacking. The longing, regret, and second-chance tenderness carry far more weight than anything explicit ever could.
The Rapunzel and Swan Lake influences are woven in naturally, and the idea of giving the “villains” their own happy ending feels both clever and comforting. By the end, I wasn’t just entertained — I genuinely cared. It’s warm, funny, and quietly romantic, the kind of book that leaves you smiling once you’ve turned the last page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed 'Falling For The Sorcerer'. The story is engaging, and world building and characterisation are fantastic. I loved Gothel and Rothbart and their romance, as well as the fact that an older couple - and parents - got to fall in love and have an adventure. There are plenty of surprises and laughs along the way.
I am not a fan of dual perspective or current tense, but it was done well and the story was engaging enough that I overlooked the former and barely noticed the latter. However, these combined with the flashbacks and an intricate world I was not familiar with did make the story harder to understand at some points (luckily there is an index, though).
I recommend it for fantasy fans looking for a world with a bit more depth than the usual fantasy romance, and romance lovers who enjoy realistic characters. There is a lot here to explore!
I also highly recommend reading the whole multi author series - they are nearly all similar and fantastic. If you like one, it is a great way to find a new author that you will love!
I am not a fan of dual perspective or current tense, but it was done well and the story was engaging enough that I overlooked the former and barely noticed the latter. However, these combined with the flashbacks and an intricate world I was not familiar with did make the story harder to understand at some points (luckily there is an index, though).
I recommend it for fantasy fans looking for a world with a bit more depth than the usual fantasy romance, and romance lovers who enjoy realistic characters. There is a lot here to explore!
I also highly recommend reading the whole multi author series - they are nearly all similar and fantastic. If you like one, it is a great way to find a new author that you will love!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Sorcerer was a really well written Mashup of Rapunzel and the Swan Princess. I loved the world that the author created and thw magic system. The relationship between Gothel and Rothbart was so fun and I loved all the banter in the book. I also really liked the family dynamic that was presented in both Gothel and Rothbart with their charges. There was no swearing, some violence and a level 2 intimacy. I can't wait to read this book again and I sincerely hope that the author writes more stories in this world! I did receive an advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 25, 2025
Well written, exciting and really surprising!
It's very sad that it takes the lovers 16 years to come together. And the tales from before interwoven with today's take you always back and explain the reason why something happened then. Problems with teenagers are so true if you are a parent, so I had a good laugh and thought of my own kids.
For me the nicest surprise was the Emperor I remembered and loved from the trilogy "Sunset at Dawn". It's lovely to meet old acquaintances! 😁
I got an ARC book and this is my honest opinion.
It's very sad that it takes the lovers 16 years to come together. And the tales from before interwoven with today's take you always back and explain the reason why something happened then. Problems with teenagers are so true if you are a parent, so I had a good laugh and thought of my own kids.
For me the nicest surprise was the Emperor I remembered and loved from the trilogy "Sunset at Dawn". It's lovely to meet old acquaintances! 😁
I got an ARC book and this is my honest opinion.
December 24, 2025
A wonderful take on classic stories! Never would I have thought that Rapunzel could get a villainous twist with Swan Lake, but this book turned my world around. I thoroughly enjoyed the complex character woven into a unique plot. Their history with one another made for a perfect character arc for everyone. The plot was quick paced, perfect for the characters and premise, making it an exciting read!
Thank you for the arc!
Thank you for the arc!
December 17, 2025
Action packed and engaging. I liked the dual POV and relationship dynamics between all of the characters. I love a good villain story, and this did not disappoint.
Definitely a great read and would recommend.
Definitely a great read and would recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love how Gothel and Rothbart deeply care about their kids and want to protect them and thus play the villian part. How they both want redemption but don't feel they are worthy of it ❤️ Rothbart is so protective over Gothel. I love the parts where they had to 'fake'their feelings during their trip😂 Also the trips under the bed🤭🤣
February 3, 2026
I love the stories of Rapunzel and Swan Lake but honestly I was a little weary on the two stories combining. Turns out they go perfectly together.
I really like the aspect of Gothel and Rapunzel’s relationship, it is different than what I am used to of the different versions retold from the original tale.
I also like Gothel and Rothbart’s second chance romance. I don’t read books with that trope often (not that I try to avoid it, just that it’s a fact) it was quite refreshing and wonderful to read with past feelings resurfacing.
I received this as an ARC.
I really like the aspect of Gothel and Rapunzel’s relationship, it is different than what I am used to of the different versions retold from the original tale.
I also like Gothel and Rothbart’s second chance romance. I don’t read books with that trope often (not that I try to avoid it, just that it’s a fact) it was quite refreshing and wonderful to read with past feelings resurfacing.
I received this as an ARC.
Review of advance copy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was such a fun, magical ride!
Gothel and Rothbart have that perfect mix of second chance tension and slow-burn rebuilding. You can feel their history from the start, but nothing is instantly fixed. Everything unfolds while they’re on the run together, which makes the forced proximity even better.
Tropes in this one:
• Only One Bed
• Second Chance Romance
• Forced Proximity
• On the Run
• Tending Wounds
And the only one bed scenes?? Probably my favorite parts 😂 They were genuinely funny, not just “oh no there’s one bed” awkward, there was banter and tension. Those moments showed the emotional undercurrents between Gothel and Rothbart. The romance stayed on emotional growth, trust, and rebuilding their relationship.
I also loved the humor throughout, especially while they were traveling with their wards. Gothel's sister, Rapunzel, and Rothbart’s kids, Odile and Siegfried, brought so much personality and chaos to the journey. Those scenes made the story feel lively and gave some really sweet, almost-family moments.
Read if you love forced proximity, magical chaos, and a powerful sorcerer slowly softening!
Thank you for the ARC. I appreciate the opportunity to read and share my honest review!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was such a fun, magical ride!
Gothel and Rothbart have that perfect mix of second chance tension and slow-burn rebuilding. You can feel their history from the start, but nothing is instantly fixed. Everything unfolds while they’re on the run together, which makes the forced proximity even better.
Tropes in this one:
• Only One Bed
• Second Chance Romance
• Forced Proximity
• On the Run
• Tending Wounds
And the only one bed scenes?? Probably my favorite parts 😂 They were genuinely funny, not just “oh no there’s one bed” awkward, there was banter and tension. Those moments showed the emotional undercurrents between Gothel and Rothbart. The romance stayed on emotional growth, trust, and rebuilding their relationship.
I also loved the humor throughout, especially while they were traveling with their wards. Gothel's sister, Rapunzel, and Rothbart’s kids, Odile and Siegfried, brought so much personality and chaos to the journey. Those scenes made the story feel lively and gave some really sweet, almost-family moments.
Read if you love forced proximity, magical chaos, and a powerful sorcerer slowly softening!
Thank you for the ARC. I appreciate the opportunity to read and share my honest review!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC for the To Win a Dark Heart series. This one was Falling for the Sorcerer.
This is a mix of Rupunzel and Swan Lake.
Gathel and Rothbart.
This story was amazing. I love when mashed up fairytales are done well.
Gathel isn't the villain the stories make her out to be yes she did bad things but they were all to protect her little sister Rupunzel.
Rothbart is a villain. He curses a young boy Siegfried to turn into a swan to protect Gathel.
They planned to runaway together but Gathel leave to protect her sister.
16 years later both Rupunzel and Siegfried meet. And Siegfried Curse gets worse so the go to the tower Gathel and Rupunzel are hiding in and Rupunzel is accidentally cursed. So fix both curses they must work together.
I love them together no matter how are they fight it they cant forget their feelings for eachother or stop them. I love their banter.
I hope we get more books in the world.
This is a mix of Rupunzel and Swan Lake.
Gathel and Rothbart.
This story was amazing. I love when mashed up fairytales are done well.
Gathel isn't the villain the stories make her out to be yes she did bad things but they were all to protect her little sister Rupunzel.
Rothbart is a villain. He curses a young boy Siegfried to turn into a swan to protect Gathel.
They planned to runaway together but Gathel leave to protect her sister.
16 years later both Rupunzel and Siegfried meet. And Siegfried Curse gets worse so the go to the tower Gathel and Rupunzel are hiding in and Rupunzel is accidentally cursed. So fix both curses they must work together.
I love them together no matter how are they fight it they cant forget their feelings for eachother or stop them. I love their banter.
I hope we get more books in the world.
February 13, 2026
What an interesting mashup. What if Gothel was Rapunzels sister and locked her in a tower to protect her. What if Rothbart from swan princess was a good sorcerer that cursed a boy to transform to get a selfish noble to make the right decision. This was a great mashup where these two "villains" get their happy ending and it’s a crazy twisted ending that was worth all the emotions. I really enjoyed this style of writing and I look forward to reading move of Jes’s books.
December 25, 2025
I loved this villainous second chance mash up of Swan Lake and Rapunzel. Drew wrote a unique story that blended elements of each story well together. It was hilarious and full of snarky banter. I could not stop laughing. I love snarky characters and this book was full of them. The plot was gripping and I did not want to put this story down.
•The romance was no spice and kisses only.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
•The romance was no spice and kisses only.
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
April 1, 2026
The first thing you see upon opening this book is a really cool map. I don't know who moved Strasbourg out of Alsace, but I suppose not being between France and Germany isn't the worst fate (sorry to non-Europeans who don't know what I'm on about). The really cool map is followed by a glossary that I found fun and a little overwhelming, but that's fine since not all these words will actually be in this book. I'd still recommend reading the glossary, because the author is not taking you by the hand. You should know the lore, because everybody else in this story does.
The story takes a minute to get you set up. Chapters switch between two different times, sixteen years apart. If you're expecting a retelling, well, don't. It's more inspired by these two stories than an actual retelling. Rapunzel is pretty clear in the story, but Swan Lake is more subtle. There's swans and curses for sure, and of course an Odile and Odette, but we're not going through the whole story.
As you may have guessed, there's romance in the book. I actually found myself surprised by it. The main pairing's interactions and dynamic are genuinely unique and fun. They're exchanging insults, they're both reminiscent and upset about their past, and, most refreshingly, they are very honest about their feelings. They also have three kids who are constantly messing with them, as teenagers should.
This story surprised me in more ways than one. We actually discuss women's right, and the lack thereof, when it comes to pretty much any decision in their lives. There's childhood lies that mess with people's adult life. Characters go through a process to grow as a person. No 'love fixes all'. Marriage isn't a particularly happy occasion for noblewomen in this time, and the book doesn't lie about it.
At some point in the story, a situation occurs that I would consider fairly unique, yet someone remarks: 'How does that always happen?' So I will be needing to hear how this happened more than once, let alone so often that someone is barely even surprised.
It's not the longest story, and I was up at three AM because it consumed my thoughts for several days and I absolutely had to finish it. It'll pull you in and surprise you. It takes itself seriously but allows for plenty of levity. It feels like a fairy tale, too. It just has that vibe. The only negative thing I have to say about it is that I thought I was going insane about a character named Mortiz except I was convinced his name was Moritz. Because that name appears more than ten times as well. But that's me desperately searching for something bad to say. So, basically, this one's a great time and I would recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story takes a minute to get you set up. Chapters switch between two different times, sixteen years apart. If you're expecting a retelling, well, don't. It's more inspired by these two stories than an actual retelling. Rapunzel is pretty clear in the story, but Swan Lake is more subtle. There's swans and curses for sure, and of course an Odile and Odette, but we're not going through the whole story.
As you may have guessed, there's romance in the book. I actually found myself surprised by it. The main pairing's interactions and dynamic are genuinely unique and fun. They're exchanging insults, they're both reminiscent and upset about their past, and, most refreshingly, they are very honest about their feelings. They also have three kids who are constantly messing with them, as teenagers should.
This story surprised me in more ways than one. We actually discuss women's right, and the lack thereof, when it comes to pretty much any decision in their lives. There's childhood lies that mess with people's adult life. Characters go through a process to grow as a person. No 'love fixes all'. Marriage isn't a particularly happy occasion for noblewomen in this time, and the book doesn't lie about it.
At some point in the story, a situation occurs that I would consider fairly unique, yet someone remarks: 'How does that always happen?' So I will be needing to hear how this happened more than once, let alone so often that someone is barely even surprised.
It's not the longest story, and I was up at three AM because it consumed my thoughts for several days and I absolutely had to finish it. It'll pull you in and surprise you. It takes itself seriously but allows for plenty of levity. It feels like a fairy tale, too. It just has that vibe. The only negative thing I have to say about it is that I thought I was going insane about a character named Mortiz except I was convinced his name was Moritz. Because that name appears more than ten times as well. But that's me desperately searching for something bad to say. So, basically, this one's a great time and I would recommend it to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book from the author and wanted to offer my honest, voluntary impression of the book after reading it, though a review wasn’t required.
This is one of many books in a new series which I am loving where the villains in the fairy tales we love have a chance for their own happily ever afters!
In this mash up of Rapunzel and Swan Lake Gothel makes a desperate move to save herself and her sister by fleeing an arranged marriage for both- even though her sister is only 2 years old, leaving behind a man she loves and who loves her as well.
Sixteen years later they meet again though it’s not under the best of circumstances. In protecting herself and Rapunzel from their parents and those sent by them,she enacts magical barriers but when a incident occurs the man she loved initiates a curse or spell himself to protect his loved ones taking away Rapunzel’s magic as well as his own. After the shock of meeting each other again after so long, they need to journey together to obtain the ingredients that will restore magic to both Rapunzel and Rothbart.
This book is of those adventures where they need to fight side by side to save each other and themselves from mercenaries and others bent on taking Gothel and Rapunzel back.Rothbart has always loved Gothel even after so many years have passed and Gothel realizes reluctantly that she still loves him too, though for her it’s harder to comprehend because of how she was indoctrinated by her parents, mother especially against love!
Love certainly didn’t run smoothly for these two but now even the threat of death isn’t going to keep them apart now that they realize how they still feel towards each other!
It’s a great story that came about because a boy Rothbart is reluctantly looking after all these years escapes at night when he changes into a swan and flies into Rapunzel’s window in a tower!
If you’re looking for a action/ adventure story infused with the magic of fairytales well look no further because here it is!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend not only this book but this entire series as books I know you’ll enjoy, especially if you love fairytales as much as I do! Read these beloved tales with a twist where this time it’s the villains who get their happily ever afters!
It’s a series I know you’ll love as much as I do!
This is one of many books in a new series which I am loving where the villains in the fairy tales we love have a chance for their own happily ever afters!
In this mash up of Rapunzel and Swan Lake Gothel makes a desperate move to save herself and her sister by fleeing an arranged marriage for both- even though her sister is only 2 years old, leaving behind a man she loves and who loves her as well.
Sixteen years later they meet again though it’s not under the best of circumstances. In protecting herself and Rapunzel from their parents and those sent by them,she enacts magical barriers but when a incident occurs the man she loved initiates a curse or spell himself to protect his loved ones taking away Rapunzel’s magic as well as his own. After the shock of meeting each other again after so long, they need to journey together to obtain the ingredients that will restore magic to both Rapunzel and Rothbart.
This book is of those adventures where they need to fight side by side to save each other and themselves from mercenaries and others bent on taking Gothel and Rapunzel back.Rothbart has always loved Gothel even after so many years have passed and Gothel realizes reluctantly that she still loves him too, though for her it’s harder to comprehend because of how she was indoctrinated by her parents, mother especially against love!
Love certainly didn’t run smoothly for these two but now even the threat of death isn’t going to keep them apart now that they realize how they still feel towards each other!
It’s a great story that came about because a boy Rothbart is reluctantly looking after all these years escapes at night when he changes into a swan and flies into Rapunzel’s window in a tower!
If you’re looking for a action/ adventure story infused with the magic of fairytales well look no further because here it is!
I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically recommend not only this book but this entire series as books I know you’ll enjoy, especially if you love fairytales as much as I do! Read these beloved tales with a twist where this time it’s the villains who get their happily ever afters!
It’s a series I know you’ll love as much as I do!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤✨🕯️ ARC Review: Falling for the Sorcerer by Jes Drew
⭐ 5/5 Stars — a dark, aching fairytale romance where love, sacrifice, and magic collide
Falling for the Sorcerer feels like wandering through a shadowed empire lit by candlelight, where every spell hums with longing and every glance carries the weight of years lost.
🕯️ Gothel is a woman of relentless devotion. She sacrificed her own love to raise her sister in isolation, hiding from the world and the man who once claimed her heart. Fierce, clever, and determined, she is both the protector and the miracle who refuses to let her loved ones fall.
🖤 Rothbart is a sorcerer broken by love and haunted by regret. Once willing to burn the world for her, he now faces the impossible: working with the woman who abandoned him while keeping his heart intact. He falls first deeply, dangerously, and irrevocably.
✨ This story brims with dark magic, twin curses, feathered princes, enchanted towers, and secret mementos that tug at the heart. From stolen books and whispered apologies to battles fought in shadows, every moment pulses with tension, desire, and the bittersweet ache of “what might have been.”
🌑 If you love: 🗝️ Cursed fairytales 🖤 Enemies to lovers romance 🌹 Sacrifice, magic, and impossible love 💜 He falls first 📚 Dark, lush, emotionally driven fantasy
⚠️ Content Warnings: • Death of a wife/mother • Murder & attempted violence & child endangerment
📖 Final Thoughts: Jes Drew delivers a spellbinding, heart wrenching romance about love lost and found, the cost of duty, and learning that sometimes surviving means giving your heart again. Falling for the Sorcerer is dark, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
— Elizabeth
Falling for the Sorcerer feels like wandering through a shadowed empire lit by candlelight, where every spell hums with longing and every glance carries the weight of years lost.
🕯️ Gothel is a woman of relentless devotion. She sacrificed her own love to raise her sister in isolation, hiding from the world and the man who once claimed her heart. Fierce, clever, and determined, she is both the protector and the miracle who refuses to let her loved ones fall.
🖤 Rothbart is a sorcerer broken by love and haunted by regret. Once willing to burn the world for her, he now faces the impossible: working with the woman who abandoned him while keeping his heart intact. He falls first deeply, dangerously, and irrevocably.
✨ This story brims with dark magic, twin curses, feathered princes, enchanted towers, and secret mementos that tug at the heart. From stolen books and whispered apologies to battles fought in shadows, every moment pulses with tension, desire, and the bittersweet ache of “what might have been.”
🌑 If you love: 🗝️ Cursed fairytales 🖤 Enemies to lovers romance 🌹 Sacrifice, magic, and impossible love 💜 He falls first 📚 Dark, lush, emotionally driven fantasy
⚠️ Content Warnings: • Death of a wife/mother • Murder & attempted violence & child endangerment
📖 Final Thoughts: Jes Drew delivers a spellbinding, heart wrenching romance about love lost and found, the cost of duty, and learning that sometimes surviving means giving your heart again. Falling for the Sorcerer is dark, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
— Elizabeth
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
I finished the book in 1 day… I should feel sorry about it especially with the amount of work I ignored in favour of reading but I don't feel a smidge of regret!
I loved this book!
All the references to their inspired stories, all the small details that were done so masterfully and cleverly, you almost feel intelligent yourself when you catch it.. I'm trying my best not to spoil but oh my golly goodness!
I am still reeling from the fact that there was an intense slow burn, enemies to lovers, not annoying miscommunication (if you can believe that's possible), found family, second chance romance, epic adventure, blended family and so much more crammed into just over 200 pages.
How?
This book was phenomenal, the gentleman bad guys, the blended family bickering, the race against time adventure made my heart sing and leap for joy.
AND there's an Otello cameo!!! For those who've read the sunset at dawn trilogy! For those who haven't why haven't you?
It is probably quite obvious from my reviewing history that I am a big fan of Jes Drew's novels and her way of story telling. But this book was everything I needed to get me out of yet another book stump. I highly recommend this book to those who long for swoon worthy romance without the spice but with all the bickering, longing stares, and practical obsession this book is for you.
It is part of a multiple author series - to win a dark heart - which retells fairy tales as old as time but it's the villains turn to get the happy ending.
I received this book as an ARC from Booksirens
I loved this book!
All the references to their inspired stories, all the small details that were done so masterfully and cleverly, you almost feel intelligent yourself when you catch it.. I'm trying my best not to spoil but oh my golly goodness!
I am still reeling from the fact that there was an intense slow burn, enemies to lovers, not annoying miscommunication (if you can believe that's possible), found family, second chance romance, epic adventure, blended family and so much more crammed into just over 200 pages.
How?
This book was phenomenal, the gentleman bad guys, the blended family bickering, the race against time adventure made my heart sing and leap for joy.
AND there's an Otello cameo!!! For those who've read the sunset at dawn trilogy! For those who haven't why haven't you?
It is probably quite obvious from my reviewing history that I am a big fan of Jes Drew's novels and her way of story telling. But this book was everything I needed to get me out of yet another book stump. I highly recommend this book to those who long for swoon worthy romance without the spice but with all the bickering, longing stares, and practical obsession this book is for you.
It is part of a multiple author series - to win a dark heart - which retells fairy tales as old as time but it's the villains turn to get the happy ending.
I received this book as an ARC from Booksirens
Review of advance copy received from Author
Loved this mashup retelling of Rapunzel and Swan Lake, deliciously twisted but cosy and killer dialogues, too.
What if Gothel isn’t the villain but the original Rapunzel? What if there are two Rapunzles, not one? What if it’s not “mother knows best”, but “sister knows best”? What if it’s a prince who is turned into a swan, not a princess and the turning was a gamble that didn’t pay off? What if the paths of Sorcerer Rothbart and Gothel crossed and it was instalove?
I enjoyed this fast-paced mashup retelling - the characters, the story, the banter, the magical world, all of it. Keen to read more of this author’s fairytale universe. Gothel grappling with her looks and feels was adorable. What kind of mother wouldn’t teach her daughter rejuvenation magic until the eve of her wedding? Possibly a mother who was trying hard for the dad not to exploit his daughters as well. Rothbart as a single dad of two was such a cinnamon roll, yum! Odile was still a darkling, thank goodness. Rapunzel was her Disney self with a good explanation as to why. The swan-prince provided a comedy element. And entertaining and amusing story, I can totally see this as a movie or a cartoon series. Will definitely keep an eye out for this author.
Fave quote: “She stole my book, my money and my heart before vanishing.” - love the priorities here.
Recommended for lovers of clean mixed gen (YA/NA) mashup retellings, especially Swan Lake and Rapunzel with elements of 12 Wild Swans mixed in.
What if Gothel isn’t the villain but the original Rapunzel? What if there are two Rapunzles, not one? What if it’s not “mother knows best”, but “sister knows best”? What if it’s a prince who is turned into a swan, not a princess and the turning was a gamble that didn’t pay off? What if the paths of Sorcerer Rothbart and Gothel crossed and it was instalove?
I enjoyed this fast-paced mashup retelling - the characters, the story, the banter, the magical world, all of it. Keen to read more of this author’s fairytale universe. Gothel grappling with her looks and feels was adorable. What kind of mother wouldn’t teach her daughter rejuvenation magic until the eve of her wedding? Possibly a mother who was trying hard for the dad not to exploit his daughters as well. Rothbart as a single dad of two was such a cinnamon roll, yum! Odile was still a darkling, thank goodness. Rapunzel was her Disney self with a good explanation as to why. The swan-prince provided a comedy element. And entertaining and amusing story, I can totally see this as a movie or a cartoon series. Will definitely keep an eye out for this author.
Fave quote: “She stole my book, my money and my heart before vanishing.” - love the priorities here.
Recommended for lovers of clean mixed gen (YA/NA) mashup retellings, especially Swan Lake and Rapunzel with elements of 12 Wild Swans mixed in.
March 12, 2026
Falling for the Sorcerer is the seventh book in the To Win A Dark Heart multiauthor series where two characters we usually know as villains fall for each other and get their happy end. In some cases these villains are just misunderstood and there’s a good explanation for their crimes, in others they start as actually quite evil and have a real redemption arc.
I enjoyed this romance between Gothel and Rothbart a lot. I mean there are not many more unlikable characters than these two villains from Rapunzel and Swan Lake and Jes Drew managed to make me really root for them.
This is a second chance romance with a bit of found family and I would say road trip adventure (if that’s a thing in fairy tales…) and the banter and snark between these characters made it a really fun read.
My favorite (side) character was probably Siegfried the swan, but the main characters were also really great. Gothel is a very protective older sister who is sacrificing a lot and I thought the love she had for her young sibling (who is, like a lot of teenagers, quite self centered and blind to what others are going through) to be really admirable.
I loved that she got her happy ending with Rothbart, who was also such a great character with a dry sense of humour. Definitely one of my favorite books of this series!
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this romance between Gothel and Rothbart a lot. I mean there are not many more unlikable characters than these two villains from Rapunzel and Swan Lake and Jes Drew managed to make me really root for them.
This is a second chance romance with a bit of found family and I would say road trip adventure (if that’s a thing in fairy tales…) and the banter and snark between these characters made it a really fun read.
My favorite (side) character was probably Siegfried the swan, but the main characters were also really great. Gothel is a very protective older sister who is sacrificing a lot and I thought the love she had for her young sibling (who is, like a lot of teenagers, quite self centered and blind to what others are going through) to be really admirable.
I loved that she got her happy ending with Rothbart, who was also such a great character with a dry sense of humour. Definitely one of my favorite books of this series!
* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.
February 27, 2026
Gothel and Rothbart both made questionable decisions sixteen years ago that destroyed all hope of a life together and required them to go into hiding with a child or children to look after - and feeling betrayed. When their paths unexpectedly cross again in a way that leaves their respective charges cursed, they're forced to work together to try to break the curses. But to do so will endanger their lives if they meet the people they're hiding from - and may be equally dangerous to their hearts. Can they right the wrongs of so many years earlier, or is it too late?
I love stories involving redemption and/or where we see a different perspective that turns a villain into someone who may have made a mistake or bad judgement - and this definitely fits the bill. Throw in characters who are willing to sacrifice for each other, and this is totally my type of book. And the addition of plenty of humour is a bonus! There are so many wonderful moments through this that I don't know what to highlight, but I did love the masterly way the emperor took over the trial and I appreciated the first bounty-hunter's frank discussion with Rothbart. So yes, even the secondary characters are interesting. All in all, a great story, and I really need to go and see what else of the author's backlist I can find.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love stories involving redemption and/or where we see a different perspective that turns a villain into someone who may have made a mistake or bad judgement - and this definitely fits the bill. Throw in characters who are willing to sacrifice for each other, and this is totally my type of book. And the addition of plenty of humour is a bonus! There are so many wonderful moments through this that I don't know what to highlight, but I did love the masterly way the emperor took over the trial and I appreciated the first bounty-hunter's frank discussion with Rothbart. So yes, even the secondary characters are interesting. All in all, a great story, and I really need to go and see what else of the author's backlist I can find.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 27, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! I love both these stories so seeing them together was a joy.
I loved Gothel and Rothbart and their story. I really liked the fact that the story didn’t start in the past then go to the present it went back and forth as flashbacks.
I really liked how Gothel is Rapunzel’s older sister and they lived in the tower to hide from their past. Gothel just wanted to protect her sister from their parents and the really bad decision they made.
I loved seeing Rothbart with Odile and Siegfried and how good of a father he was. Odile might have been his only child by blood but he still treated Siegfried like his son.
Gothel and Rothbart met 16 years before and she left him to protect her sister. Now they are stuck together again to break some curses.
These characters were so complex and the story was very well written. It had me hooked from page 1.
All the characters in this book were interesting even the side characters and they all had their own stories surrounding them. From reading other reviews I found out they are characters from some of the other books Jes has written which I found very interesting. I love when authors connect their books and you get more of characters you love.
This is a second chance romance and I really loved it. I read this book as an arc.
I loved Gothel and Rothbart and their story. I really liked the fact that the story didn’t start in the past then go to the present it went back and forth as flashbacks.
I really liked how Gothel is Rapunzel’s older sister and they lived in the tower to hide from their past. Gothel just wanted to protect her sister from their parents and the really bad decision they made.
I loved seeing Rothbart with Odile and Siegfried and how good of a father he was. Odile might have been his only child by blood but he still treated Siegfried like his son.
Gothel and Rothbart met 16 years before and she left him to protect her sister. Now they are stuck together again to break some curses.
These characters were so complex and the story was very well written. It had me hooked from page 1.
All the characters in this book were interesting even the side characters and they all had their own stories surrounding them. From reading other reviews I found out they are characters from some of the other books Jes has written which I found very interesting. I love when authors connect their books and you get more of characters you love.
This is a second chance romance and I really loved it. I read this book as an arc.
March 11, 2026
This was an interesting mashup of fairytales! Gothel is Rapunzel's sister and does everything to keep her safe including locking her up in a tower. Rapunzel is not very understanding that her sister is trying to keep her safe, even from herself. Gothel has been challenged to try and do this the last sixteen years.
Then from Swan Lake, we have Rothbart who is a widower, raising his daughter Odile & adopted son, Siegfried, who as a young boy was cursed to be a swan. Rothbart rather than walking away has cared for him the last sixteen years.
The next thing we know, we are thrown into a race against the clock with our two "villains"...who felt more like misunderstood people caring for others, who after sixteen years face the past and are trying to save those they have been caring for the last sixteen years. They have to undo the twin curses and in a scavenger type of race Gothel and Rothbart and their teenage charges are off to try and keep everyone safe and also fix the curses.
This book was so much fun to read & left me waiting a couple times... holding on for the twists and turns to calm down. But the last twist in this book is so worth the wait! It's such a perfect twist that I actually was gleeful about it.
I highly recommend this fun and witty read! Jes Drew did an excellent job with this book from the start to the finish. I truly enjoyed it!
Then from Swan Lake, we have Rothbart who is a widower, raising his daughter Odile & adopted son, Siegfried, who as a young boy was cursed to be a swan. Rothbart rather than walking away has cared for him the last sixteen years.
The next thing we know, we are thrown into a race against the clock with our two "villains"...who felt more like misunderstood people caring for others, who after sixteen years face the past and are trying to save those they have been caring for the last sixteen years. They have to undo the twin curses and in a scavenger type of race Gothel and Rothbart and their teenage charges are off to try and keep everyone safe and also fix the curses.
This book was so much fun to read & left me waiting a couple times... holding on for the twists and turns to calm down. But the last twist in this book is so worth the wait! It's such a perfect twist that I actually was gleeful about it.
I highly recommend this fun and witty read! Jes Drew did an excellent job with this book from the start to the finish. I truly enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Falling for the Sorcerer by Jes Drew is a standalone book in the multi-author To Win a Dark Heart series. It is a mash up of two fairytales, Rapunzel and Swan Lake, and I know that Jes Drew is a master in mixing up fairytales and making them her own. I have read more books she has written and each one I loved.
In this book there are all the characters from the original tales, such as sorcerer Rothbart, Rapunzel with her long golden hair, Odile and Siegried. While some of them are almost the same characters, others now have a slightly different role. Jes Drew also introduces new characters. And while you can see traces of the old fairytales, the story is quite new and refreshing.
From the very first page I loved it. The writing style is fast paced and I had a really hard time putting the book down. I loved how we got two points of view. The world-building is amazing and the story-line mesmerizing. There is also a lot of banter and humour woven in this book, along with drama, curses, betrayal, intrigue, and, of course, romance.
If you love reading fairytales and retellings, then this is the book you should read! I cannot wait to read all the books in this series.
Highly recommended!
In this book there are all the characters from the original tales, such as sorcerer Rothbart, Rapunzel with her long golden hair, Odile and Siegried. While some of them are almost the same characters, others now have a slightly different role. Jes Drew also introduces new characters. And while you can see traces of the old fairytales, the story is quite new and refreshing.
From the very first page I loved it. The writing style is fast paced and I had a really hard time putting the book down. I loved how we got two points of view. The world-building is amazing and the story-line mesmerizing. There is also a lot of banter and humour woven in this book, along with drama, curses, betrayal, intrigue, and, of course, romance.
If you love reading fairytales and retellings, then this is the book you should read! I cannot wait to read all the books in this series.
Highly recommended!
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