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Apples and Gold: A Snow White Retelling
344 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
July 1, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This was absolutely phenomenal the banter and the spice phew 😮💨!! This had me laughing so hard I was crying! Loved the age gap romance between the two and their chemistry!! I absolutely love this story and can’t wait to read part two!!
Chefs kiss to Alexandra Swift!!
“Apples and Gold is a dark and steamy Snow White retelling featuring enemies-to-lovers with a mysterious huntsman, age-gap romance, a pleasure house full of morally gray secrets, a found family of courtesans, and a slow-burn restraint that snaps. First part of a duology.”
Chefs kiss to Alexandra Swift!!
“Apples and Gold is a dark and steamy Snow White retelling featuring enemies-to-lovers with a mysterious huntsman, age-gap romance, a pleasure house full of morally gray secrets, a found family of courtesans, and a slow-burn restraint that snaps. First part of a duology.”
June 18, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
June 8, 2026
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice - 🌶️🌶️
Plot - 🌏🌏
I can’t believe how much this made me giggle.
This was such a wonderful adventure, full of spice, humour and found family.
I truly loved Briony’s story and how she found some a wonderful group of people. After being forced into an arranged marriage, she decides to take fate into her own hands.
The whole thing just made me laugh so much, all her botched work experiences just made me giggle.
The romance was 👌🏾👌🏾
I am so into any romance that focuses on Snow White and the Hunter.
And this did not disappoint!!!
Spice - 🌶️🌶️
Plot - 🌏🌏
I can’t believe how much this made me giggle.
This was such a wonderful adventure, full of spice, humour and found family.
I truly loved Briony’s story and how she found some a wonderful group of people. After being forced into an arranged marriage, she decides to take fate into her own hands.
The whole thing just made me laugh so much, all her botched work experiences just made me giggle.
The romance was 👌🏾👌🏾
I am so into any romance that focuses on Snow White and the Hunter.
And this did not disappoint!!!
July 9, 2026
What a book. I was hooked from the beginning.
Apples and Gold is the second book in an interconnected series (Fairytales after midnight) and part I of a duology.
Briony/Snow our fmc is intelligent, free spirited and head strong. What others see as her destruction she sees as an opportunity.
I also love a select few of the women from the Golden Apple, the counselling and support that comes from the ladies & older matrons. And let me tell you, I learnt a thing or two from Vera.
And the tension & slow burnnnn with Thorven. Yum. He’s so Dilf.
The magic in this world is so unique and incredibly interesting, you have veils that slowly erase memories and pet spiders that spin emotive dresses, exposing your emotions through colour changes.
Can’t wait to read part II !
Thank you to the author for an arc, in exchange for an honest review.
Apples and Gold is the second book in an interconnected series (Fairytales after midnight) and part I of a duology.
Briony/Snow our fmc is intelligent, free spirited and head strong. What others see as her destruction she sees as an opportunity.
I also love a select few of the women from the Golden Apple, the counselling and support that comes from the ladies & older matrons. And let me tell you, I learnt a thing or two from Vera.
And the tension & slow burnnnn with Thorven. Yum. He’s so Dilf.
The magic in this world is so unique and incredibly interesting, you have veils that slowly erase memories and pet spiders that spin emotive dresses, exposing your emotions through colour changes.
Can’t wait to read part II !
Thank you to the author for an arc, in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks to the author for the chance to read and review this ARC.
Solid 4 stars!
I thought I knew what I was getting, but this was so much more than a snow white retelling. Spice, female rage, politics, magic... I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked Briony/Snow but LOVED the hunter. The age gap was absolutely delicious and didnt feel offputting at all. Would definitely recommend this!
Solid 4 stars!
I thought I knew what I was getting, but this was so much more than a snow white retelling. Spice, female rage, politics, magic... I thoroughly enjoyed it. I liked Briony/Snow but LOVED the hunter. The age gap was absolutely delicious and didnt feel offputting at all. Would definitely recommend this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW: If you like stories that emphasize heavily on the characters and their relationships and less on the history and world building (and let’s not forget a heavy dose of spiciness), this is YOUR story!
In Book 2 of the “Fairytales after Midnight” Series, a dark and spicy retelling of Snow White, we meet Briony, a Lady of her house, headstrong and magicless. After inadvertently shaming the family name, her stepmother has decided to marry her off to an undeserving Lord in order to save her reputation and her place in society.
However, Briony takes matters into her own hands with nothing but a horse, a cart with a broken wheel, a little hair dye, a new name and sheer determination. She finds herself standing at the doors of The Golden Apple and becoming a highly sought after Escort.
But not all is as it seems. The walls retain secrets. There’s magic at work meant to smooth the edges and obscure the harsh realities of life. Yet Briony is an anomaly, putting a target on her back as a prize to be won or a political pawn to be used.
And the Masked Hunter sent to find her? He may be her salvation or her undoing.
Release Date: July 1, 2026!
Character Development: 5/5 ⭐️
World Building and Lore: 3.5/5 ⭐️
Plot: 4/5 ⭐️
Spicy: 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ - when she’s in the Royal Room and The Galley is hiding the Dark and Broody Shadow ?*fanning my face* Girl, that was 💀
Anyway *clears throat*
Notes: (just to help clarify my ratings)
I really love when a story builds the realm and lore. It helps me appreciate what the characters are living through and deal with. I love seeing the magic come alive, especially if it’s been hidden from the characters themselves. I wish there was more clarity with the magic system. You see “hearth magic” mentioned, and notably the “Mirror” and the magic of the Golden Apple. But not much else. Then when Briony stumbles upon what magic is in The Golden Apple, there isn’t the “oh my gosh, this is big” factor. I wish there was more clarity there. The focus is not here on the world building -
It’s here - on the relationships between characters, the banter, yearning and unlikely friendships. The Matrons are fabulous. Briony’s friends are hilarious… and the goblins are just as you’d expect (like walking into the Hogwarts bank full of goblins). The Masked Hunter? The back and forth between each of the characters is so real and you FEEL EVERYTHING!
You have to read it to see 😁😉
In Book 2 of the “Fairytales after Midnight” Series, a dark and spicy retelling of Snow White, we meet Briony, a Lady of her house, headstrong and magicless. After inadvertently shaming the family name, her stepmother has decided to marry her off to an undeserving Lord in order to save her reputation and her place in society.
However, Briony takes matters into her own hands with nothing but a horse, a cart with a broken wheel, a little hair dye, a new name and sheer determination. She finds herself standing at the doors of The Golden Apple and becoming a highly sought after Escort.
But not all is as it seems. The walls retain secrets. There’s magic at work meant to smooth the edges and obscure the harsh realities of life. Yet Briony is an anomaly, putting a target on her back as a prize to be won or a political pawn to be used.
And the Masked Hunter sent to find her? He may be her salvation or her undoing.
Release Date: July 1, 2026!
Character Development: 5/5 ⭐️
World Building and Lore: 3.5/5 ⭐️
Plot: 4/5 ⭐️
Spicy: 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️ - when she’s in the Royal Room and The Galley is hiding the Dark and Broody Shadow ?*fanning my face* Girl, that was 💀
Anyway *clears throat*
Notes: (just to help clarify my ratings)
I really love when a story builds the realm and lore. It helps me appreciate what the characters are living through and deal with. I love seeing the magic come alive, especially if it’s been hidden from the characters themselves. I wish there was more clarity with the magic system. You see “hearth magic” mentioned, and notably the “Mirror” and the magic of the Golden Apple. But not much else. Then when Briony stumbles upon what magic is in The Golden Apple, there isn’t the “oh my gosh, this is big” factor. I wish there was more clarity there. The focus is not here on the world building -
It’s here - on the relationships between characters, the banter, yearning and unlikely friendships. The Matrons are fabulous. Briony’s friends are hilarious… and the goblins are just as you’d expect (like walking into the Hogwarts bank full of goblins). The Masked Hunter? The back and forth between each of the characters is so real and you FEEL EVERYTHING!
You have to read it to see 😁😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC REVIEW✨
I went into this 100% thinking I knew what to expect, a Snow White re-telling based in a pleasure house. What I expected was a straightforward plot and a book that leaned heavily on explicit content, but I was surprised to find this book had a lot more to it than that! What presents as a fairly simple storyline quickly gains unexpected depth, intrigue, intensity, mystery, and emotional depth. The storyline focuses on Briony’s growth and her growing awareness of something about the Golden Apple being off. What unravels is a story of misused magic, manipulation, control, and political scheming.
At first, I thought Briony was a stupid girl railing against a system meant to break her by falling into a trap meant to take advantage of her in an ill-fated attempt to harness the very thing she was being shamed for, her sexual desires. However, I quickly fell in love with her for her willful independence and her refusal to overlook red flags and warning signs. She is a woman that refuses to be silent, demands to be heard, and balks at turning a blind eye even if it risks her safety. Throughout this book she is confident, steadfast, and loyal. She builds genuine friendships with the women in her circle and offers empathy in the face of betrayal, recognizing the system that forces women into decisions they would otherwise not make. Instead of giving in to the demands society places on her, she carves her own way.
Thorven is our tortured, secretive, brutish MMC. Assigned to be her hunter, he refused to capitulate to obligation and money at the risk of compromising his values and destroying Briony’s autonomy. At every turn, he makes space (sometimes too much) for her to be independent and make her own choices. For much of the book, he serves as a stalwart protector on the sidelines. A shadow on the wall, watching and protecting but not overbearing. A definite plus is his tiny dragon companion, Ashwing. This little dragon is sassy and does not let Thorven get away with anything. Ashwing is constantly projecting Thorven’s actual emotions under the cold mask and distance he attempts to maintain.
This is a book filled with feminine rage and a demand for autonomy in a world that, much like ours, thrusts unfair expectations onto women while providing men with an easy escape.
I went into this 100% thinking I knew what to expect, a Snow White re-telling based in a pleasure house. What I expected was a straightforward plot and a book that leaned heavily on explicit content, but I was surprised to find this book had a lot more to it than that! What presents as a fairly simple storyline quickly gains unexpected depth, intrigue, intensity, mystery, and emotional depth. The storyline focuses on Briony’s growth and her growing awareness of something about the Golden Apple being off. What unravels is a story of misused magic, manipulation, control, and political scheming.
At first, I thought Briony was a stupid girl railing against a system meant to break her by falling into a trap meant to take advantage of her in an ill-fated attempt to harness the very thing she was being shamed for, her sexual desires. However, I quickly fell in love with her for her willful independence and her refusal to overlook red flags and warning signs. She is a woman that refuses to be silent, demands to be heard, and balks at turning a blind eye even if it risks her safety. Throughout this book she is confident, steadfast, and loyal. She builds genuine friendships with the women in her circle and offers empathy in the face of betrayal, recognizing the system that forces women into decisions they would otherwise not make. Instead of giving in to the demands society places on her, she carves her own way.
Thorven is our tortured, secretive, brutish MMC. Assigned to be her hunter, he refused to capitulate to obligation and money at the risk of compromising his values and destroying Briony’s autonomy. At every turn, he makes space (sometimes too much) for her to be independent and make her own choices. For much of the book, he serves as a stalwart protector on the sidelines. A shadow on the wall, watching and protecting but not overbearing. A definite plus is his tiny dragon companion, Ashwing. This little dragon is sassy and does not let Thorven get away with anything. Ashwing is constantly projecting Thorven’s actual emotions under the cold mask and distance he attempts to maintain.
This is a book filled with feminine rage and a demand for autonomy in a world that, much like ours, thrusts unfair expectations onto women while providing men with an easy escape.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It turns out that Snow isn’t whiter than White after all…
Give me a retelling of folklore and fairy-tales and you can bet I’ll be reading it! With Apples and Gold being a loose retelling of the classic fairy-tale ‘Snow White’ I couldn’t wait to begin!
Our protagonist, Briony, flees her home in Abberwyn in the opening chapter, escaping a forced marriage put upon by her stepmother due to a ‘ruined reputation’ with little but a stolen horse and broken cart to her name.
With the help of a woman called Rook and her goblin alliance, Briony sheds her identity and becomes Snow, with hair as black as night and skin as white as snow. Her desire? To locate the Golden Apple Pleasure House and seek employment. She is met by a host of courtesans that after just a few days seem to feel like a chosen family. What I adored about this was the essence of girlhood within the house. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but the majority of the members of the house accept Snow and teach her the ways of a courtesan.
In order to make her debut, Snow must transform from a bud into a bloom by auctioning her virginity. The condition? When the final bid is presented, she is able to pick who she chooses. Things seem to be going well for Snow with her new life ahead of her, but she becomes acutely aware that someone is hunting her down- and will not stop until she is claimed.
I must confess that the sexual and emotional tension between the Huntsman and Snow is so thick that it’s almost palpable. The alluring, yet frustrating prospect that you want what you cannot have is something the majority of readers will be able to understand.
All in all, I really enjoyed the book. It could have easily been a smut-filled read- which is fine if you're into that sort of thing. However, Swift manages to incorporate a decent story of political influence, power struggle, corruption and repression through Briony learning who she is and how hard she is willing to fight for her freedom.
🍎🍎🍎🍎
Give me a retelling of folklore and fairy-tales and you can bet I’ll be reading it! With Apples and Gold being a loose retelling of the classic fairy-tale ‘Snow White’ I couldn’t wait to begin!
Our protagonist, Briony, flees her home in Abberwyn in the opening chapter, escaping a forced marriage put upon by her stepmother due to a ‘ruined reputation’ with little but a stolen horse and broken cart to her name.
With the help of a woman called Rook and her goblin alliance, Briony sheds her identity and becomes Snow, with hair as black as night and skin as white as snow. Her desire? To locate the Golden Apple Pleasure House and seek employment. She is met by a host of courtesans that after just a few days seem to feel like a chosen family. What I adored about this was the essence of girlhood within the house. It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, but the majority of the members of the house accept Snow and teach her the ways of a courtesan.
In order to make her debut, Snow must transform from a bud into a bloom by auctioning her virginity. The condition? When the final bid is presented, she is able to pick who she chooses. Things seem to be going well for Snow with her new life ahead of her, but she becomes acutely aware that someone is hunting her down- and will not stop until she is claimed.
I must confess that the sexual and emotional tension between the Huntsman and Snow is so thick that it’s almost palpable. The alluring, yet frustrating prospect that you want what you cannot have is something the majority of readers will be able to understand.
All in all, I really enjoyed the book. It could have easily been a smut-filled read- which is fine if you're into that sort of thing. However, Swift manages to incorporate a decent story of political influence, power struggle, corruption and repression through Briony learning who she is and how hard she is willing to fight for her freedom.
🍎🍎🍎🍎
Read
June 4, 2026I went into Apples and Gold expecting a Snow White retelling.
What I got was a dark, addictive fantasy romance full of secrets, hidden identities, morally grey characters, and a romance that had me completely hooked.
Briony quickly became a protagonist I couldn’t stop rooting for. She’s resilient, clever, and determined to carve out her own future in a world that constantly tries to take her choices away. Watching her unravel the mysteries surrounding the Golden Apple kept me glued to the page.
And then there’s the hunter.
The tension between these two is exquisite. Every interaction feels layered with secrets, restraint, and undeniable chemistry. The slow burn is done so well that every small moment feels significant, making the payoff incredibly satisfying.
One of my favourite things about this book was the setting. The Golden Apple feels alive in its own right—a place filled with beauty, danger, hidden agendas, and people carrying scars of their own. The found family aspect added so much heart to the story and gave the book an emotional depth I wasn’t expecting.
The mystery woven throughout the story kept me constantly guessing. Just when I thought I understood what was happening, another revelation would completely change the game.
If you love:
🍎 Fairytale retellings
🖤 Morally grey characters
🎭 Hidden identities
🔥 Slow-burn romance
👑 Corrupt kingdoms and dangerous secrets
✨ Found family
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
then Apples and Gold absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
This was one of those books that completely pulled me into its world and refused to let go. I already know I’ll be thinking about these characters long after finishing the final page.
Thank you to Alexandra Swift for the ARC opportunity. ❤️
What I got was a dark, addictive fantasy romance full of secrets, hidden identities, morally grey characters, and a romance that had me completely hooked.
Briony quickly became a protagonist I couldn’t stop rooting for. She’s resilient, clever, and determined to carve out her own future in a world that constantly tries to take her choices away. Watching her unravel the mysteries surrounding the Golden Apple kept me glued to the page.
And then there’s the hunter.
The tension between these two is exquisite. Every interaction feels layered with secrets, restraint, and undeniable chemistry. The slow burn is done so well that every small moment feels significant, making the payoff incredibly satisfying.
One of my favourite things about this book was the setting. The Golden Apple feels alive in its own right—a place filled with beauty, danger, hidden agendas, and people carrying scars of their own. The found family aspect added so much heart to the story and gave the book an emotional depth I wasn’t expecting.
The mystery woven throughout the story kept me constantly guessing. Just when I thought I understood what was happening, another revelation would completely change the game.
If you love:
🍎 Fairytale retellings
🖤 Morally grey characters
🎭 Hidden identities
🔥 Slow-burn romance
👑 Corrupt kingdoms and dangerous secrets
✨ Found family
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
then Apples and Gold absolutely deserves a spot on your TBR.
This was one of those books that completely pulled me into its world and refused to let go. I already know I’ll be thinking about these characters long after finishing the final page.
Thank you to Alexandra Swift for the ARC opportunity. ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc review
Thank you, Alexandra Swift for trusting me with your book! A crazy ride into a story world where the Veil covers memories and people lose themselves in magic!
So. It turns out Snow White is... Beauty's sister. And the Hunter is the Beast's stewart/gardener. Makes sense? Sure,in this magic world where everything and everyone is a step away from misleading.
In this Snow White retelling, Briony, Lisa's sister from Silver and Gold, has a rather dramatic turn in life, and ends up deserted, ruined and formally engaged to an older man that she supposedly never met. Her stepmother started rulling her life, and all she has left is to leave North and try to lose her trail in the Veiled South. The determined stepmother sends the Hunter after her, Thorven, the silent former soldier. And all the story is changing course when he finds her in a .... brothel. Briony becomes Snow, red hair becomes black, and her high tolerance for embarrassment and humour save her from becoming lost in the shadows.
The book is exquisite! We have a lot of yearning, spice and a beautiful story of found family. It is a walk among life- like characters from fairytales, where magic can erase memory, where small dragons hang around people, where magic spiders web feelings in colours and where Snow White saves the Hunter.
Apples and Gold is strong antology of emotions and sarcasm, beautifully crafted around two characters . The dual point of view of the story is well written, pointing out the difference in perspective and is quite unique!
I am definitely wondering what story comes next? There are so many characters that could turn out to be part of a fairytale in Alexandra Swift 's magical realm!
Thank you, Alexandra Swift for trusting me with your book! A crazy ride into a story world where the Veil covers memories and people lose themselves in magic!
So. It turns out Snow White is... Beauty's sister. And the Hunter is the Beast's stewart/gardener. Makes sense? Sure,in this magic world where everything and everyone is a step away from misleading.
In this Snow White retelling, Briony, Lisa's sister from Silver and Gold, has a rather dramatic turn in life, and ends up deserted, ruined and formally engaged to an older man that she supposedly never met. Her stepmother started rulling her life, and all she has left is to leave North and try to lose her trail in the Veiled South. The determined stepmother sends the Hunter after her, Thorven, the silent former soldier. And all the story is changing course when he finds her in a .... brothel. Briony becomes Snow, red hair becomes black, and her high tolerance for embarrassment and humour save her from becoming lost in the shadows.
The book is exquisite! We have a lot of yearning, spice and a beautiful story of found family. It is a walk among life- like characters from fairytales, where magic can erase memory, where small dragons hang around people, where magic spiders web feelings in colours and where Snow White saves the Hunter.
Apples and Gold is strong antology of emotions and sarcasm, beautifully crafted around two characters . The dual point of view of the story is well written, pointing out the difference in perspective and is quite unique!
I am definitely wondering what story comes next? There are so many characters that could turn out to be part of a fairytale in Alexandra Swift 's magical realm!
July 1, 2026
For me, this book started out strong. Briony is a fantastic FMC who I instantly loved for her strength and humor. I absolutely loved the unique spin on the traditional tale of Snow White, and the goblin market setting was fantastic.
Unfortunately, the story lost some of its momentum after the first third. The prose felt a bit vague in places, making it difficult to fully visualize the setting or the exact progression of events. Additionally, upon reaching the main setting, we are introduced to a large amount of characters all at once, making it easy to lose track of who was who.
Once the FMC reached a certain point in her journey, the stakes and suspense dropped, leaving a lack of narrative tension to carry the story forward. The second half had minimal plot movement; the political intrigue and mysteries didn't carry enough emotional weight, and the consequences weren't clear enough to fully draw me in.
As for the romance, I really liked the MMC, but the relationship felt heavily reliant on sexual attraction. While that dynamic worked initially, the story missed opportunities for them to build a deeper emotional bond. Instead, their interactions leaned on silence and arguments, which made the MMC feel a bit too closed off. "Broody" doesn't have to mean a lack of actual communication, and the relationship needed a stronger foundation to make their chemistry shine.
This book has a ton of potential, and I can clearly see the author's creative vision. However, it ultimately felt a bit rushed and would have greatly benefited from deeper structural development to really let its brilliance shine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unfortunately, the story lost some of its momentum after the first third. The prose felt a bit vague in places, making it difficult to fully visualize the setting or the exact progression of events. Additionally, upon reaching the main setting, we are introduced to a large amount of characters all at once, making it easy to lose track of who was who.
Once the FMC reached a certain point in her journey, the stakes and suspense dropped, leaving a lack of narrative tension to carry the story forward. The second half had minimal plot movement; the political intrigue and mysteries didn't carry enough emotional weight, and the consequences weren't clear enough to fully draw me in.
As for the romance, I really liked the MMC, but the relationship felt heavily reliant on sexual attraction. While that dynamic worked initially, the story missed opportunities for them to build a deeper emotional bond. Instead, their interactions leaned on silence and arguments, which made the MMC feel a bit too closed off. "Broody" doesn't have to mean a lack of actual communication, and the relationship needed a stronger foundation to make their chemistry shine.
This book has a ton of potential, and I can clearly see the author's creative vision. However, it ultimately felt a bit rushed and would have greatly benefited from deeper structural development to really let its brilliance shine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2026
You'll love this if you love - Intrigue, strength, determination, longing, fierce women and magic.
Review of Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift.
*Spoilers ahead*
"He was hired to hunt me down. I’m the one thing he was never supposed to want"
This book is promoted as a dark Snow White retelling. The plot follows our FMC as she flees her family and past and into the arms of the Golden Apple. An upper class brothel which holds its own secrets 👀 and a mysterious hunter tasked to bring Snow back. However, not all is as it seems... Did Snow really do as her Stepmother says? Who is our Hunter and how does he know Snow? Will the Golden Apple let one of its most valuable courtesans go?
I am so grateful @authoralexandraswift
Split this into two books and I love how she got her ARC and Street team involved in the decision. Splitting the book into two gave Snow's story much better cohesion and a great reading pace.
The first book gives us Snows background and how she ended up in the Golden Apple. I love how in-depth and detailed the story is. You never feel like the story is moving too fast and everything is described really well.
I LOVE the camaraderie between our FMC and the other courtesans. In a world where flesh is gold, it is amazing to see the importance of women supporting women. Of seeing them build each other up and protecting each other. That doing what you need to do to survive should never be looked down upon. I think Snow is a brilliantly articulated character who is determined to defy all of the odds to escape the plans her stepmother has for her.
The slow burn...🤌🏼and the spice is written very elegantly which I find can be really difficult. And I LOVE a female initiator.
This book is a HECK YES from me ❤️
Review of Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift.
*Spoilers ahead*
"He was hired to hunt me down. I’m the one thing he was never supposed to want"
This book is promoted as a dark Snow White retelling. The plot follows our FMC as she flees her family and past and into the arms of the Golden Apple. An upper class brothel which holds its own secrets 👀 and a mysterious hunter tasked to bring Snow back. However, not all is as it seems... Did Snow really do as her Stepmother says? Who is our Hunter and how does he know Snow? Will the Golden Apple let one of its most valuable courtesans go?
I am so grateful @authoralexandraswift
Split this into two books and I love how she got her ARC and Street team involved in the decision. Splitting the book into two gave Snow's story much better cohesion and a great reading pace.
The first book gives us Snows background and how she ended up in the Golden Apple. I love how in-depth and detailed the story is. You never feel like the story is moving too fast and everything is described really well.
I LOVE the camaraderie between our FMC and the other courtesans. In a world where flesh is gold, it is amazing to see the importance of women supporting women. Of seeing them build each other up and protecting each other. That doing what you need to do to survive should never be looked down upon. I think Snow is a brilliantly articulated character who is determined to defy all of the odds to escape the plans her stepmother has for her.
The slow burn...🤌🏼and the spice is written very elegantly which I find can be really difficult. And I LOVE a female initiator.
This book is a HECK YES from me ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2026
🍎Apples and Gold💛
A Snow White Retelling
Fairytales after Midnight Book 2 part 1
⚠️Disclaimer⚠️ I was honored to receive a e-ARC of Apples and Gold, however that has not impacted my honest review.
🚨 POSSIBLE SPOILERS 🚨
5/5 Stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alexandra completely blew my mind with book 2. She truly bloomed as an author, you can feel it in every word, every bold direction she took writing this! If you love Silver and Gold book 1, then you will devour book 2!
Feminine rage wrapped in silk! Birony/Snow never got to choose for herself or her desires. She’s declared “ruined” by her stepmother for her sensuality. Forced into an arranged marriage to a man twice her age “Lord Porkham”, all because she had the audacity to enjoy her desires.
Feminine rage, healing, and taking back one's own autonomy.
Slow Burn with angst and tension.
Secrets, mystery and truths to be uncovered.
Touch her and die, forced proximity, grumpy/brooding.
Found family, humor, Dual POV, age gap.
Birony/Snow did NOT go along with that arranged marriage, she did indeed runaway, stole a horse and fled for refuge all the way from Abberwyn to Amberlow with the possibility that she was being hunted as she fled.
Dragons, goblins, magic, courtesans, The Golden Apple
The way the author give life to non-sentient places blows me away every time. The Golden Apple is one of them, a pleasure house, but so much more than just that.
Snow finds herself employed there after a few failed attempts at other employment, and where we see Snow come to life.
I don’t want to give too much away~! I cannot wait till part 2 comes out
A Snow White Retelling
Fairytales after Midnight Book 2 part 1
⚠️Disclaimer⚠️ I was honored to receive a e-ARC of Apples and Gold, however that has not impacted my honest review.
🚨 POSSIBLE SPOILERS 🚨
5/5 Stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alexandra completely blew my mind with book 2. She truly bloomed as an author, you can feel it in every word, every bold direction she took writing this! If you love Silver and Gold book 1, then you will devour book 2!
Feminine rage wrapped in silk! Birony/Snow never got to choose for herself or her desires. She’s declared “ruined” by her stepmother for her sensuality. Forced into an arranged marriage to a man twice her age “Lord Porkham”, all because she had the audacity to enjoy her desires.
Feminine rage, healing, and taking back one's own autonomy.
Slow Burn with angst and tension.
Secrets, mystery and truths to be uncovered.
Touch her and die, forced proximity, grumpy/brooding.
Found family, humor, Dual POV, age gap.
Birony/Snow did NOT go along with that arranged marriage, she did indeed runaway, stole a horse and fled for refuge all the way from Abberwyn to Amberlow with the possibility that she was being hunted as she fled.
Dragons, goblins, magic, courtesans, The Golden Apple
The way the author give life to non-sentient places blows me away every time. The Golden Apple is one of them, a pleasure house, but so much more than just that.
Snow finds herself employed there after a few failed attempts at other employment, and where we see Snow come to life.
I don’t want to give too much away~! I cannot wait till part 2 comes out
July 5, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for sharing this ARC with me, I absolutely loved it!
After reading Silver and Gold (book 1 on this fairytale retelling series), I was not really expecting a second story in the same world, but I am so glad we got it!
Briony is the sassy sister of Silver and gold’ FMC.
After a romance with a young boy in their village, she is considered “ruined goods” when he instead leaves her and marries someone else.
To escape her new fate of an arranged marriage, Briony runs from her home and moves South.
Penniless and alone, she finds refuge in a “house of pleasure” where she can at least “be shameful on her own terms”.
While we do get an introduction to The Hunter payed to get Briony back, the whole book revolves more about Briony coming onto her own.
She is strong, shameless and proud of herself in the best way.
The world has tried to make her feel useless multiple times, while Briony has never broken.
I absolutely adore her.
The matrons and side characters are great and strong on their own as well.
In this first instalment we only just get to know the players, while the power plays are yet to come!
I enjoyed the first book “Silver and gold”, while I found this such a step up still!
I personally connected to the story a lot more, and I enjoyed having less world building but stronger characters.
Truly this was a great read, and getting into part 2 ASAP too!
Also this quote will stay with me forever:
“A man who receives pleasure from a woman and then punishes her for giving it, is not a man. He is a boy with an erection and an opinion. The erection fades, and the opinion shouldn’t be your problem”
After reading Silver and Gold (book 1 on this fairytale retelling series), I was not really expecting a second story in the same world, but I am so glad we got it!
Briony is the sassy sister of Silver and gold’ FMC.
After a romance with a young boy in their village, she is considered “ruined goods” when he instead leaves her and marries someone else.
To escape her new fate of an arranged marriage, Briony runs from her home and moves South.
Penniless and alone, she finds refuge in a “house of pleasure” where she can at least “be shameful on her own terms”.
While we do get an introduction to The Hunter payed to get Briony back, the whole book revolves more about Briony coming onto her own.
She is strong, shameless and proud of herself in the best way.
The world has tried to make her feel useless multiple times, while Briony has never broken.
I absolutely adore her.
The matrons and side characters are great and strong on their own as well.
In this first instalment we only just get to know the players, while the power plays are yet to come!
I enjoyed the first book “Silver and gold”, while I found this such a step up still!
I personally connected to the story a lot more, and I enjoyed having less world building but stronger characters.
Truly this was a great read, and getting into part 2 ASAP too!
Also this quote will stay with me forever:
“A man who receives pleasure from a woman and then punishes her for giving it, is not a man. He is a boy with an erection and an opinion. The erection fades, and the opinion shouldn’t be your problem”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Many thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Apples and Gold is book 2 in an interconnected series of fairytale retellings. Briony flees an arranged marriage and finds herself employed in a southern pleasure house where everything is not as it seems.
I love a fairytale retelling so as soon as I saw this I was invested. This book is far more than that though, it maintains it's own unique story while still having the Snow White influences running through the background. The magic system was interesting and I would have liked to have seen it developed a bit more. Also, while this is technically a standalone there were several references to book 1, Silver and Gold, so it may be a benefit to have read this first.
This was a real slow burn and the yearning was almost painful at times, but the payoff at the end was worth it. I really enjoyed Briony's character development from slightly naive runaway to a strong independent woman who knew what she wanted. The Hunter was the perfect brooding MMC with his own demons. The secondary characters were also fully realised and interesting in their own right.
Overall I enjoyed this book, it is an interesting retelling without leaning too heavily on the original story. It does lack slightly in world-building when it comes to the magic system, and feels a bit slow through the first half, but the second half more than makes up for that.
Tropes:
✨ Found Family
✨ Age Gap
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Touch Her And Die
✨ Grumpy / Brooding MMC
Apples and Gold is book 2 in an interconnected series of fairytale retellings. Briony flees an arranged marriage and finds herself employed in a southern pleasure house where everything is not as it seems.
I love a fairytale retelling so as soon as I saw this I was invested. This book is far more than that though, it maintains it's own unique story while still having the Snow White influences running through the background. The magic system was interesting and I would have liked to have seen it developed a bit more. Also, while this is technically a standalone there were several references to book 1, Silver and Gold, so it may be a benefit to have read this first.
This was a real slow burn and the yearning was almost painful at times, but the payoff at the end was worth it. I really enjoyed Briony's character development from slightly naive runaway to a strong independent woman who knew what she wanted. The Hunter was the perfect brooding MMC with his own demons. The secondary characters were also fully realised and interesting in their own right.
Overall I enjoyed this book, it is an interesting retelling without leaning too heavily on the original story. It does lack slightly in world-building when it comes to the magic system, and feels a bit slow through the first half, but the second half more than makes up for that.
Tropes:
✨ Found Family
✨ Age Gap
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Touch Her And Die
✨ Grumpy / Brooding MMC
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this take on a dark Snow White retelling. The similarities were subtle enough that it wasn’t boring but also obvious enough to make it known as a Snow White story.
Briony/Snow was cast out for something so ridiculous (and imo, a certain someone was projecting their feelings onto her). I’m so immensely proud of her for trying to find her own way and finding who she is for herself. I was kicking my feet and screaming at her interactions with Daphne because omg it was just adorable. She stood her ground on things in the Apple and didn’t let anyone sway her decisions on it.
The Hunter! How did I not see that one?! The clues were so obvious if you had read the first book (not necessary but definitely helpful) and yet I still couldn’t remember who it was lol
He never pushed her boundaries even when he very obviously could have. The Hunter was so immensely caring when he discovered things were first for her or when she got headaches.
Little baby Ashwing, technically the Hunters but if we’re being real, he obviously chose Snow lol
Gossamer! Idk why but this little creature was one of my favorite animal characters ever. So cute.
Rook, Lisette, Prudence, Ninon. Love them all. They all played huge parts in shaping Snows story and helping her in various ways.
I absolutely cannot wait to read more!
(Also, that bonus chapter was spicy af)
While this is an interconnected standalone, I would HIGHLY recommend reading Silver and Gold first. It gives more insight to some of the things Briony and others refer to in the book.
Briony/Snow was cast out for something so ridiculous (and imo, a certain someone was projecting their feelings onto her). I’m so immensely proud of her for trying to find her own way and finding who she is for herself. I was kicking my feet and screaming at her interactions with Daphne because omg it was just adorable. She stood her ground on things in the Apple and didn’t let anyone sway her decisions on it.
The Hunter! How did I not see that one?! The clues were so obvious if you had read the first book (not necessary but definitely helpful) and yet I still couldn’t remember who it was lol
He never pushed her boundaries even when he very obviously could have. The Hunter was so immensely caring when he discovered things were first for her or when she got headaches.
Little baby Ashwing, technically the Hunters but if we’re being real, he obviously chose Snow lol
Gossamer! Idk why but this little creature was one of my favorite animal characters ever. So cute.
Rook, Lisette, Prudence, Ninon. Love them all. They all played huge parts in shaping Snows story and helping her in various ways.
I absolutely cannot wait to read more!
(Also, that bonus chapter was spicy af)
While this is an interconnected standalone, I would HIGHLY recommend reading Silver and Gold first. It gives more insight to some of the things Briony and others refer to in the book.
July 1, 2026
What is a girl to do when her stepmother tries to force her to marry the odious Lord Porkham? Perhaps commit a little petty horse theft, flee to the city and find that you are ill suited for most forms of employment and end up alone on the street. As the situation looks increasingly bleak maybe the help of seven dwarves, I mean seven matrons of the notorious pleasure house The Golden Apple, can help. Attempting to take back her power and autonomy Briony trains in the art of seduction and pleasure, shedding the bland unwanted skin of a northern daughter and become Snow, the raven haired courtesan. But darkness soon follows, mysterious warnings left on the bed, subtle threats in the hallways, and a masked man with a northern accent in the shadows. His eyes are always watching, his purse is heavy enough to buy a night from Snow, the air between them electric whenever they are near, but why does he feel familiar when they have never met. When Snow tries to unravel multiple mysteries, what happened to the missing girls from the Apple, who is the mask man, where are the letters coming from, she agrees to satisfy her growing desire and accepts a night with the masked hunter. After a scorching night of passion and an intense glimpse into the hunters veiled mind the masks come off, but Snow might not be prepared for the lies they are hiding or the person the hunter might be working for. The gripping adult retelling of Snow White is book one of a duo and any possible happily ever after will have to wait for book 2
July 14, 2026
** Thank you to the author and their team for the opportunity to serve as an ARC reader*
Overall I thought Part I of Apples and Gold was fast paced, interesting, and gave the reader a lot to think about in regards to self-determination and finding one own's path. It is 100% a slow-burn and at first I didn't know if I could buy-into the Hunter's character but I 100% ended up enjoying his own journey and his internal struggle.
📖 Storyline / Plot 15% 3 -- Solid, but felt that it was a little random at times, how some characters appears or how certain scenes occured it felt very much forced as opposed to flowing, I think that is also due to not having a lot of world-building, but overall ok.
✍️ Prose & Writing Style 15% 4 -- Good, 1st person POV
💕 Romance Chemistry 15% 4 -- Good, the romantic chemistry, you can feel it building throughout the book. I think the final scene of the book where they finalllllly have sex was well written and kind of hot TBH!
🌍 World-Building 15% 3 -- Solid, the world building I think is a little superficial and we could have had more lore/WB to build up our attachment to Briony.
🎭 Character Development 10% 4 -- Good, I enjoyed seeing Briony's journey of turning her failures into lessons, and moving onto the next option. I liked that she didn't swallow in her own pity.
⚡ Pacing & Structure 10% 4 -- Good
😮 Emotional Impact 20% 4 -- Good I was invested in Briony's story
Overall weighted score: 3.7/5
Overall I thought Part I of Apples and Gold was fast paced, interesting, and gave the reader a lot to think about in regards to self-determination and finding one own's path. It is 100% a slow-burn and at first I didn't know if I could buy-into the Hunter's character but I 100% ended up enjoying his own journey and his internal struggle.
📖 Storyline / Plot 15% 3 -- Solid, but felt that it was a little random at times, how some characters appears or how certain scenes occured it felt very much forced as opposed to flowing, I think that is also due to not having a lot of world-building, but overall ok.
✍️ Prose & Writing Style 15% 4 -- Good, 1st person POV
💕 Romance Chemistry 15% 4 -- Good, the romantic chemistry, you can feel it building throughout the book. I think the final scene of the book where they finalllllly have sex was well written and kind of hot TBH!
🌍 World-Building 15% 3 -- Solid, the world building I think is a little superficial and we could have had more lore/WB to build up our attachment to Briony.
🎭 Character Development 10% 4 -- Good, I enjoyed seeing Briony's journey of turning her failures into lessons, and moving onto the next option. I liked that she didn't swallow in her own pity.
⚡ Pacing & Structure 10% 4 -- Good
😮 Emotional Impact 20% 4 -- Good I was invested in Briony's story
Overall weighted score: 3.7/5
July 1, 2026
I just want to say thank you to the author for inviting me to join the ARC team for this story! This book will now be a duology but I read this when it was still in one so my review reflects this.
Part 1: releasing on 1st July
Part 2: releasing on 1st August
⭐️ 4.5 stars (rounded up) ⭐️
To protect the family from shame, Briony’s stepmother has arranged for her to be married off to much older lord. Briony however has another plan, to save herself from the fate chosen for her. Leaving her home behind in a stolen horse and cart, her plan involves getting as far away from A as quickly as she can.
With the help from a few new acquaintances, Briony takes a new identity and hair colour becoming Snow and finding her way to the Golden Apple please house where not everything is as it seems. While Briony starts to navigate her new life, the past is chasing her in the form of our MMC who has been sent to bring her back home.
I really enjoyed this retelling and it had me hooked from the beginning, I was pulled into the world and excited to find out where this story was going. There were lots of twists and turns that had me guessing throughout. I also love how the FMC was determined to live her life on her own terms and make it clear what she wants, then we have the brooding MMC with his bonded dragon who is doing all he can to protect her. The tension and banter between them was brilliant and everything you could want in a romantasy.
What to expect:
-Dark fairytale retelling
-Hidden identities
-Found family
-Age gap
-Slow burn
-Touch her & die
“Mercy is a noble sentiment. It is very rarely wise.”
“Threaten me again and I might just tie you to that bedpost and see how long you can last without begging.”
Thank you to the author for my ARC of this book. I received this one exchange for my voluntary honest opinion.
Part 1: releasing on 1st July
Part 2: releasing on 1st August
⭐️ 4.5 stars (rounded up) ⭐️
To protect the family from shame, Briony’s stepmother has arranged for her to be married off to much older lord. Briony however has another plan, to save herself from the fate chosen for her. Leaving her home behind in a stolen horse and cart, her plan involves getting as far away from A as quickly as she can.
With the help from a few new acquaintances, Briony takes a new identity and hair colour becoming Snow and finding her way to the Golden Apple please house where not everything is as it seems. While Briony starts to navigate her new life, the past is chasing her in the form of our MMC who has been sent to bring her back home.
I really enjoyed this retelling and it had me hooked from the beginning, I was pulled into the world and excited to find out where this story was going. There were lots of twists and turns that had me guessing throughout. I also love how the FMC was determined to live her life on her own terms and make it clear what she wants, then we have the brooding MMC with his bonded dragon who is doing all he can to protect her. The tension and banter between them was brilliant and everything you could want in a romantasy.
What to expect:
-Dark fairytale retelling
-Hidden identities
-Found family
-Age gap
-Slow burn
-Touch her & die
“Mercy is a noble sentiment. It is very rarely wise.”
“Threaten me again and I might just tie you to that bedpost and see how long you can last without begging.”
Thank you to the author for my ARC of this book. I received this one exchange for my voluntary honest opinion.
July 1, 2026
When an author says they "dared more" in a sequel, it can go one of two ways. Fortunately, in Apples and Gold, it means a total masterclass in subverting expectations.
While its predecessor, Silver and Gold, kept its fairy tale roots clearly visible, this second book boldly strays into uncharted territory. Instead of a straightforward retelling, the author leaves a trail of clever breadcrumbs, turning the reading experience into a thrilling game of connect-the-dots. There is nothing quite like that sudden, satisfying click in your brain when a hidden fairy tale element reveals itself.
While I initially thought that the goblins filled the seven dwarves' role, the truth is far more brilliant—enter the Seven Matrons. This twist completely reframes the dynamic and blows the original concept out of the water.
The Hunter's identity totally surprised me and I absolutely loved his complexity.
The absolute highlight of the first half is a pivotal scene told through dual perspectives—both Snow's and hunter's view of the exact same event. It adds a spectacular layer of depth to their dynamic and serves as the perfect, high-note conclusion to Part One.
This is a uniquely crafted, daring fairy tale reimagining that isn't afraid to break the mold. If you love clever foreshadowing, POV shifts that actually add value, and brilliant character twists, this is a must-read.
Can't wait to get started on the second part.
While its predecessor, Silver and Gold, kept its fairy tale roots clearly visible, this second book boldly strays into uncharted territory. Instead of a straightforward retelling, the author leaves a trail of clever breadcrumbs, turning the reading experience into a thrilling game of connect-the-dots. There is nothing quite like that sudden, satisfying click in your brain when a hidden fairy tale element reveals itself.
While I initially thought that the goblins filled the seven dwarves' role, the truth is far more brilliant—enter the Seven Matrons. This twist completely reframes the dynamic and blows the original concept out of the water.
The Hunter's identity totally surprised me and I absolutely loved his complexity.
The absolute highlight of the first half is a pivotal scene told through dual perspectives—both Snow's and hunter's view of the exact same event. It adds a spectacular layer of depth to their dynamic and serves as the perfect, high-note conclusion to Part One.
This is a uniquely crafted, daring fairy tale reimagining that isn't afraid to break the mold. If you love clever foreshadowing, POV shifts that actually add value, and brilliant character twists, this is a must-read.
Can't wait to get started on the second part.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book Review: Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift
Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift is a dark fantasy romance and a retelling of the classic Snow White fairy tale. Instead of following the original story closely, the author creates a darker world filled with magic, secrets, danger, and romance. The novel follows a young woman who escapes a forced marriage and hides in the mysterious Golden Apple, where she meets a masked hunter whose past is connected to hers in unexpected ways.
I enjoyed the book because it combines mystery, romance, and fantasy in a way that kept me interested from beginning to end. The characters are complex and believable, especially the main couple, whose relationship develops slowly as trust grows between them. The magical setting and the suspense surrounding the Golden Apple make the story feel unique and exciting.
The writing is descriptive and emotional, creating a dark atmosphere that fits the story well. Although some scenes are intense, they add to the tension and make the characters' journey more meaningful.
Overall, I would recommend Apples and Gold to readers who enjoy fantasy, fairy tale retellings, and slow-burn romance. It is an engaging and imaginative novel that offers a fresh take on the Snow White story. I would give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift is a dark fantasy romance and a retelling of the classic Snow White fairy tale. Instead of following the original story closely, the author creates a darker world filled with magic, secrets, danger, and romance. The novel follows a young woman who escapes a forced marriage and hides in the mysterious Golden Apple, where she meets a masked hunter whose past is connected to hers in unexpected ways.
I enjoyed the book because it combines mystery, romance, and fantasy in a way that kept me interested from beginning to end. The characters are complex and believable, especially the main couple, whose relationship develops slowly as trust grows between them. The magical setting and the suspense surrounding the Golden Apple make the story feel unique and exciting.
The writing is descriptive and emotional, creating a dark atmosphere that fits the story well. Although some scenes are intense, they add to the tension and make the characters' journey more meaningful.
Overall, I would recommend Apples and Gold to readers who enjoy fantasy, fairy tale retellings, and slow-burn romance. It is an engaging and imaginative novel that offers a fresh take on the Snow White story. I would give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.
July 1, 2026
She is the master of her own body, her destiny, and her story...
I just finished Part 1 of Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift and launching July 1st, and this Fairytales After Midnight Snow White retelling really captivated me.
Briony is a young woman who defies every traditional rule set by men and women locked in traditional hierarchy to carve out her own path. Reclaiming her life and changing her name to Snow, her breathtaking beauty is matched only by her rare, contrasting pale features. Everyone is drawn to her. Though there is one hunter who will never stop seeking her.
What I loved most was watching how the women in this story fight to keep their autonomy in a society that tries to force them into roles they didn’t choose. Snow is a magnificent free spirit. The tension between Snow and the hunter is palpable. Will she break him, or will he break her in Part 2? The stakes are high and I am patiently waiting to find out!
Alexandra Swift’s writing is elegant and alluring. She has built a gorgeous world that feels both dangerous and empowering.
If you love fairy tale retellings with depth, strong-willed heroines, burn the world for her men, and a dark, inescapable pull, add this to your TBR immediately.
Thank you Alexandra for my ARC copy! This review is my own personal thoughts.
I just finished Part 1 of Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift and launching July 1st, and this Fairytales After Midnight Snow White retelling really captivated me.
Briony is a young woman who defies every traditional rule set by men and women locked in traditional hierarchy to carve out her own path. Reclaiming her life and changing her name to Snow, her breathtaking beauty is matched only by her rare, contrasting pale features. Everyone is drawn to her. Though there is one hunter who will never stop seeking her.
What I loved most was watching how the women in this story fight to keep their autonomy in a society that tries to force them into roles they didn’t choose. Snow is a magnificent free spirit. The tension between Snow and the hunter is palpable. Will she break him, or will he break her in Part 2? The stakes are high and I am patiently waiting to find out!
Alexandra Swift’s writing is elegant and alluring. She has built a gorgeous world that feels both dangerous and empowering.
If you love fairy tale retellings with depth, strong-willed heroines, burn the world for her men, and a dark, inescapable pull, add this to your TBR immediately.
Thank you Alexandra for my ARC copy! This review is my own personal thoughts.
July 2, 2026
🍎🍏 The Hunter & Snow
ARC Review
Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift is Book 2 in the Fairytales After Midnight Series, which is an interconnected standalones and the first in a Duology. (Book 1 is Silver and Gold and that one is a Beauty & Beast retelling of Briony's older sister Lysa.) Briony's story is a darkly seductive Snow White retelling, ägẹ-gäp, witty banter, cat & mouse - hunter/prey themes, restraint - than delicious loss of it, set in a magical world with a lot of layers & secrets. I did read the first book and enjoyed it. This approximately takes place two years after. (I know the online description says standalone; however some items are not matching up from what was described in Book 1 to Book 2.) Briony's father still as useless from when we first meet him.There lot of characters introduced in the first few chapters and that felt a bit challenging to keep it straight. The Golden Apple is definitely a character all on it's own. Different POVs to enjoy, looking forward to the next book completing the Duology. ❤️
“I’ve been useless my entire life. Everyone’s said so. No magic, no prospects, no future. And maybe they’re right. But at this Apple, the thing that ruined me back home is the thing they’re looking for. And I want to know what happens when I stop being ashamed of it.”
ARC Review
Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift is Book 2 in the Fairytales After Midnight Series, which is an interconnected standalones and the first in a Duology. (Book 1 is Silver and Gold and that one is a Beauty & Beast retelling of Briony's older sister Lysa.) Briony's story is a darkly seductive Snow White retelling, ägẹ-gäp, witty banter, cat & mouse - hunter/prey themes, restraint - than delicious loss of it, set in a magical world with a lot of layers & secrets. I did read the first book and enjoyed it. This approximately takes place two years after. (I know the online description says standalone; however some items are not matching up from what was described in Book 1 to Book 2.) Briony's father still as useless from when we first meet him.There lot of characters introduced in the first few chapters and that felt a bit challenging to keep it straight. The Golden Apple is definitely a character all on it's own. Different POVs to enjoy, looking forward to the next book completing the Duology. ❤️
“I’ve been useless my entire life. Everyone’s said so. No magic, no prospects, no future. And maybe they’re right. But at this Apple, the thing that ruined me back home is the thing they’re looking for. And I want to know what happens when I stop being ashamed of it.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
This right here. I loved this book. Author Alexandra Swift’s follow-up to SILVER AND GOLD is fantastic. Briony, aka Snow: has true grit—when she is most afraid, she stands her ground. She is brilliant—she can think analytically, even when her emotions are highest, she has the kindest heart. The Hunter: tortured by suppressed memories, in love with Briony for years, very protective/obsessed with Briony, he is so good to her. APPLES AND GOLD is 519 pages on my kindle, but reads smooth. There’s drama, suspense, betrayal from the tenderest spot, subplots that unexpectedly turn, villains that deserve . . . 😉, and sensual spice between The Hunter and Briony—*let me just quickly add here, one of the scenes is raw emotionally and swelteringly hot. I don’t know how else to put it. Good Stuff.
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨’The Hunter’ aka . . . it’s a surprise
FMC:
✨Briony aka Snow
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA, interconnected series
Series:
✨Book 2: Fairytales after Midnight
Tropes:
👉dark fantasy romance
👉humor & banter
👉touch her and ☠️ protectiveness
👉enemies to lovers
👉morally gray mmc
👉strong fmc
Triggers: ⚠️ see content warning page for full list triggers ⚠️
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
💥violence
💥death
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF
*** Recommended ***
MMC:
✨’The Hunter’ aka . . . it’s a surprise
FMC:
✨Briony aka Snow
HEA/Cliffhanger:
✨HEA, interconnected series
Series:
✨Book 2: Fairytales after Midnight
Tropes:
👉dark fantasy romance
👉humor & banter
👉touch her and ☠️ protectiveness
👉enemies to lovers
👉morally gray mmc
👉strong fmc
Triggers: ⚠️ see content warning page for full list triggers ⚠️
💥18+
💥sex
💥profanity
💥violence
💥death
Spice Level:
✨🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
✨MF
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is 4.5 rounded up. There are some real moments of trauma that hit quite hard and I don't think I was prepared for it but aside from that, this was just such a good time.
I never thought I would be invested in the emotional state of spiders but I was! Briony was impulsive but in the best of ways. She isn't and FMC that lets life happen to her and I'm confident if the Hunter never found her, she would be running the Apple before year end.
I'm really loving plot heavy romantasy these days and this one didn't disappoint. Swift could have leaned into chapters long smut but instead we get yearning and teasing and personal exploration that just sings the whole book. All the characters are fully realised and the stakes for everyone are clear as day. The Hunter as a brooding MMC is delicious but she is not his sunshine. She has her own agenda and she follows it. She admits when she's wrong and asks for help. For such a young FMC, she's got a maturity that made her easy to root for.
The bonus chapter...what a treat...
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I never thought I would be invested in the emotional state of spiders but I was! Briony was impulsive but in the best of ways. She isn't and FMC that lets life happen to her and I'm confident if the Hunter never found her, she would be running the Apple before year end.
I'm really loving plot heavy romantasy these days and this one didn't disappoint. Swift could have leaned into chapters long smut but instead we get yearning and teasing and personal exploration that just sings the whole book. All the characters are fully realised and the stakes for everyone are clear as day. The Hunter as a brooding MMC is delicious but she is not his sunshine. She has her own agenda and she follows it. She admits when she's wrong and asks for help. For such a young FMC, she's got a maturity that made her easy to root for.
The bonus chapter...what a treat...
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 25, 2026
First off let me start by saying thank you to Alexandra Swift for allowing me to ARC read part one of Apples and Gold. I happy to provide a review for n my own accord.
Apples and Gold book 1 is a dark Snow White retelling with the FMC Briony/Snow who flees her father’s home because her step-mother had arranged a marriage in order to bring respect to her family well because her step-mother thinks she’s been sleeping around. She runs away and ends up working at a pleasure house where she is trained in the art of seduction. The Hunter, our MMC, along with his bonded dragon are sent to bring her back home.
I enjoyed the plot and the characters in this story. There is an age gap, she’s 21 and he is like 45, but it is a slow burn as they navigate the pleasure house and all of the different people there interested in Snow. There is some backstabbing, magic, grief and intrigue. It was a quick easy read and I enjoyed the writing. So if you enjoy dark fairytale retellings with an FMC who is strong and resilient and a broody mysterious MMC I would definitely recommend this book. I will definitely be reading book 2! 4.5 ⭐️
Apples and Gold book 1 is a dark Snow White retelling with the FMC Briony/Snow who flees her father’s home because her step-mother had arranged a marriage in order to bring respect to her family well because her step-mother thinks she’s been sleeping around. She runs away and ends up working at a pleasure house where she is trained in the art of seduction. The Hunter, our MMC, along with his bonded dragon are sent to bring her back home.
I enjoyed the plot and the characters in this story. There is an age gap, she’s 21 and he is like 45, but it is a slow burn as they navigate the pleasure house and all of the different people there interested in Snow. There is some backstabbing, magic, grief and intrigue. It was a quick easy read and I enjoyed the writing. So if you enjoy dark fairytale retellings with an FMC who is strong and resilient and a broody mysterious MMC I would definitely recommend this book. I will definitely be reading book 2! 4.5 ⭐️
July 5, 2026
I wasn’t sure what I was expecting exactly with this Snow White retelling, but it held a lot of promise.
Britney/Snow is quick witted and fiercely independent. She doesn’t let the her fate be deterred by anyone except herself and sets out on her own path with hilariously bad job experiences, before being recommended to The Golden Apple where we meet lots of interesting characters, both of the human and magical kind. There’s something about Snow that’s different than others who enter The Golden Apple - and by the end of Part 1, we finally start to understand why more. And her encounter with the Hunter, that seems way overdue, raises more questions then gives answers. Trying to figure Snow out, her abilities and wayward way of doing things her own way, made for some laugh at loud as well as some scratch your head moments. Can’t wait to read the finale!
I will say at times I struggled with the pace of the book, and felt it could deliver the same amazing story in a shorter version, and at times did find it to be hard to follow but overall enjoyed the atmosphere and magical world created within the pages.
Britney/Snow is quick witted and fiercely independent. She doesn’t let the her fate be deterred by anyone except herself and sets out on her own path with hilariously bad job experiences, before being recommended to The Golden Apple where we meet lots of interesting characters, both of the human and magical kind. There’s something about Snow that’s different than others who enter The Golden Apple - and by the end of Part 1, we finally start to understand why more. And her encounter with the Hunter, that seems way overdue, raises more questions then gives answers. Trying to figure Snow out, her abilities and wayward way of doing things her own way, made for some laugh at loud as well as some scratch your head moments. Can’t wait to read the finale!
I will say at times I struggled with the pace of the book, and felt it could deliver the same amazing story in a shorter version, and at times did find it to be hard to follow but overall enjoyed the atmosphere and magical world created within the pages.
August 9, 2026
Are you a fan of fairytale retellings? I am an absolute fiend for a good retelling and these are two interconnected standalones that were easily five star reads! Alexandra Swift impeccably took a classic and made it steamy, dark, endearing, and full of women's empowerment.
Apples and Gold is a two part Snow White retelling following Lysa's sister Briony as she must flee her stepmother after an arranged marriage to save her reputation. Briony discovers she must navigate the twisted halls of the Apple to evade the Hunter sent to bring her home.
Let me just say that I highly recommend you read Silver and Gold first because you get so much more depth for Apples and Gold. You certainly don't have to because they are standalones, but I enjoyed it so much more because I read Silver and Gold first.
I loved this series so much I purchased all three books. Snow White has always been my favorite fairytale and retellings featuring her are very rare. Not only was this an incredible retelling, one of my favorite parts was how Alexandra detailed Briony's growth and agency at the end of the book. It was such a beautiful tale of women empowering other women. So good!
Apples and Gold is a two part Snow White retelling following Lysa's sister Briony as she must flee her stepmother after an arranged marriage to save her reputation. Briony discovers she must navigate the twisted halls of the Apple to evade the Hunter sent to bring her home.
Let me just say that I highly recommend you read Silver and Gold first because you get so much more depth for Apples and Gold. You certainly don't have to because they are standalones, but I enjoyed it so much more because I read Silver and Gold first.
I loved this series so much I purchased all three books. Snow White has always been my favorite fairytale and retellings featuring her are very rare. Not only was this an incredible retelling, one of my favorite parts was how Alexandra detailed Briony's growth and agency at the end of the book. It was such a beautiful tale of women empowering other women. So good!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Apples and Gold by Alexandra Swift completely captivated me from start to finish. As a Snow White retelling, it takes everything I love about fairy tale reimaginings and elevates it with the perfect blend of mystery, romance, and spice. The story kept me hooked from the very first page, with twists that had me constantly wanting to know more and characters whose relationships developed in a way that felt both authentic and deeply emotional. The world-building was immersive, the tension was perfectly paced, and the romance delivered all the chemistry and heart I could ask for. Every element came together seamlessly, making this a book I simply could not put down. This was my second time being an ARC reader, and it was such an incredible experience to read a story that offers so much within a single cover. I cannot recommend Apples and Gold highly enough, and Alexandra Swift has definitely earned a spot on my must-read author list. Be sure to add this one to your TBR when it releases on July 1st!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, Lisette is the bestest friend someone can have. Cake always makes things better.
Second, Ashwing ♡
Third, Gossamer ♡♡
Fourth, Ninon is absolutely correct about the pouf.
Part 1 to be released of 01 July, Part 2 of 01 August.
In Part 1, Briony steals through the night to save herself from an unwanted marriage only to find herself at the Golden Apple. She must learn the ways of the courtesan as well as how to navigate politics while still trying to understand her strengths and limitations. A huntsman is sent after her to "save her reputation" through - what else - marriage.
I enjoyed the magic system and how important it is to the overall story.
Part 2 dives more into Briony coming into her own, while the Huntsman is learning how to navigate his own feelings. We get a deeper understanding of how the Golden Apple operates, with Briony learning more about her powers. Be prepared for stubborn and sultry feelings.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Second, Ashwing ♡
Third, Gossamer ♡♡
Fourth, Ninon is absolutely correct about the pouf.
Part 1 to be released of 01 July, Part 2 of 01 August.
In Part 1, Briony steals through the night to save herself from an unwanted marriage only to find herself at the Golden Apple. She must learn the ways of the courtesan as well as how to navigate politics while still trying to understand her strengths and limitations. A huntsman is sent after her to "save her reputation" through - what else - marriage.
I enjoyed the magic system and how important it is to the overall story.
Part 2 dives more into Briony coming into her own, while the Huntsman is learning how to navigate his own feelings. We get a deeper understanding of how the Golden Apple operates, with Briony learning more about her powers. Be prepared for stubborn and sultry feelings.
I received an advanced reader copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
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