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Apples and Gold: A Snow White Retelling
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jul 26344 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
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!!!
June 18, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
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!
June 28, 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.
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
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 ⭐️
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
Alexandra Swift transports you to a fairytale world with her words!
After receiving an ARC of Apples and Gold, I went and read Silver and Gold, book 1 of the Fairytales After Midnight series (interconnected standalones) and whilst it was great, Apples and Gold is even better.
Swift crafts a fairytale world that feels both fresh and familiar. Small dragons, silk spinning spiders, misty towns in lantern light and magical wine are all here, along with charming characters, found family and spicy scenes worth waiting for.
Apples and Gold is a Snow White retelling where Briony (Snow) escapes an arranged marriage and ends up in a brothel. Think of the brothel, however, as more of a magical 18th century manor that houses courtesans and is full of political intrigue. Then there is the hunter; sent to bring her home - but Snow has ideas of her own.
I look forward to reading more books in this series!
After receiving an ARC of Apples and Gold, I went and read Silver and Gold, book 1 of the Fairytales After Midnight series (interconnected standalones) and whilst it was great, Apples and Gold is even better.
Swift crafts a fairytale world that feels both fresh and familiar. Small dragons, silk spinning spiders, misty towns in lantern light and magical wine are all here, along with charming characters, found family and spicy scenes worth waiting for.
Apples and Gold is a Snow White retelling where Briony (Snow) escapes an arranged marriage and ends up in a brothel. Think of the brothel, however, as more of a magical 18th century manor that houses courtesans and is full of political intrigue. Then there is the hunter; sent to bring her home - but Snow has ideas of her own.
I look forward to reading more books in this series!
June 22, 2026
I was lucky enough to be apart of the ARC Team for Apples and Gold!
Let me just start off by saying I LOVED this story. I loved the atmosphere and the fairytale elements! I haven’t read a good fantasy with a pleasure house before so the story immediately pulled me into that aspect, as well.
Snow (Briony) was an easy character to root for. Her strength, determination, and growth throughout the story made her journey compelling from beginning to end. I also loved Huntsman (Lord and the dynamic between him and Snow. Their relationship developed naturally, and their interactions added both heart and tension to the story. I also loved the little tiny dragon 😭
The world-building felt immersive without being overwhelming, and the fairytale elements were woven into the plot beautifully. There were several moments that kept me turning the pages, especially as the stakes continued to rise for the characters.
Let me just start off by saying I LOVED this story. I loved the atmosphere and the fairytale elements! I haven’t read a good fantasy with a pleasure house before so the story immediately pulled me into that aspect, as well.
Snow (Briony) was an easy character to root for. Her strength, determination, and growth throughout the story made her journey compelling from beginning to end. I also loved Huntsman (Lord and the dynamic between him and Snow. Their relationship developed naturally, and their interactions added both heart and tension to the story. I also loved the little tiny dragon 😭
The world-building felt immersive without being overwhelming, and the fairytale elements were woven into the plot beautifully. There were several moments that kept me turning the pages, especially as the stakes continued to rise for the characters.
June 25, 2026
Review of Advanced Copy
When I started the book it was originally one book. By the time I was more than half way through, the author turned it into two books. I am reviewing it as one.
Apples and Gold is based off of the story of Snow White. It is a unique story and I absolutely enjoyed it.
There were a few scenes that made me uncomfortable and I had to put the book down, but the story itself still impressed me. It’s a creative rendition of the story; very unique. I found the writing to be well-done and caught my attention. The book feels to have been planned well. The characters are different but they still carry some of the characteristics of the fairy tale. The story focuses a lot on the characters and could go more into depth on the magic abilities. The world the writer created is interesting, but I would have liked to learn more about it.
The book gives quite a twist to the Snow White Story.
When I started the book it was originally one book. By the time I was more than half way through, the author turned it into two books. I am reviewing it as one.
Apples and Gold is based off of the story of Snow White. It is a unique story and I absolutely enjoyed it.
There were a few scenes that made me uncomfortable and I had to put the book down, but the story itself still impressed me. It’s a creative rendition of the story; very unique. I found the writing to be well-done and caught my attention. The book feels to have been planned well. The characters are different but they still carry some of the characteristics of the fairy tale. The story focuses a lot on the characters and could go more into depth on the magic abilities. The world the writer created is interesting, but I would have liked to learn more about it.
The book gives quite a twist to the Snow White Story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.9 stars
A moonlight flit with a stolen horse to avoid a forced marriage is a fabulous opener.
There are no dwarves but there are goblins.
An intriguing magic system
Dragons yes dragons but they seem in some ways like cats, at least in size anyway.
This is a slow burn spicy story
With fabulous world building from the start.
The characters have a rounded depth to them.
There are apples and there is a mirror but nothing like what you would expect them to be.
One side character I really hope we see more of in part 2 is Rook. There are a couple of others that I do hope get HEA's of their own so i'll have read part 2 find out
Although this is the second book in the Fairytales after Midnight series you don't need to have read Silver and Gold to enjoy this
Highly recommend adding this to your TBR now
A moonlight flit with a stolen horse to avoid a forced marriage is a fabulous opener.
There are no dwarves but there are goblins.
An intriguing magic system
Dragons yes dragons but they seem in some ways like cats, at least in size anyway.
This is a slow burn spicy story
With fabulous world building from the start.
The characters have a rounded depth to them.
There are apples and there is a mirror but nothing like what you would expect them to be.
One side character I really hope we see more of in part 2 is Rook. There are a couple of others that I do hope get HEA's of their own so i'll have read part 2 find out
Although this is the second book in the Fairytales after Midnight series you don't need to have read Silver and Gold to enjoy this
Highly recommend adding this to your TBR now
June 21, 2026
God the way this book wrapped me in its silk and wouldn't let go. The secrets, truths, treachery, and feminine rage had me in a chokehold. And don't even get me started on the tension between her and the hunter 🤤🔥. The angsty banter had me flying thru the pages begging for the next encounter. The way he hunted her had me swooning, which is probably unhealthy. This is dark, with twist and turns you never see coming but the ending will have you kicking your feet and fist pumping.
If you love:
Dark fairytale retellings
Snow White-inspired stories
Possessive MMCs
Slow-burning tension and angst
Feminine rage and healing arcs
Addictive romance
Then move this one to the top of your TBR immediately.
If you love:
Dark fairytale retellings
Snow White-inspired stories
Possessive MMCs
Slow-burning tension and angst
Feminine rage and healing arcs
Addictive romance
Then move this one to the top of your TBR immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Part 1 of this duology wraps its silken threads around you and pulls you in deep. The secrets, manipulation, treachery, and double standards are so intense that you'll want to scream. Alexandra reveals just enough to keep you hooked, expertly stirring the pot while layering in delicious banter, tension, and yearning from beginning to AMAZING end.
A hunter burdened by secrets and driven by a mission. A girl condemned by a society that insists she isn't worthy.
From the moment their paths cross, the tension is palpable. You know something is bound to happen—it's only a matter of when. All that's left is to sit back and watch them drive each other crazy as they learn to break the system determined to keep them down.
A hunter burdened by secrets and driven by a mission. A girl condemned by a society that insists she isn't worthy.
From the moment their paths cross, the tension is palpable. You know something is bound to happen—it's only a matter of when. All that's left is to sit back and watch them drive each other crazy as they learn to break the system determined to keep them down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the FMC’s character, she is now on the list as one of my fave FMC’s. She’s super witty, brave, not afraid to speak her mind. Her character was very well written! The MMC was super broody, obsessed with her, and I really liked him a lot too. The story itself is a great Snow White retelling that takes place mostly in a brothel which was such a unique twist! I loved the world, the magic system, the side characters, and mostly the author’s writing style. She has such a great way with words, banter, and her descriptions. It did get heavy into politics which I’m not generally a fan of bc I get bored with it but that’s a me thing, the author did a great job writing it all.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Apples and Gold is a spicy Snow White retelling but it is so much more. Briony has never been table to make her own choices and when she is going to be forced into an arranged marriage she decides to take control of her own life. She runs away and creates a new identity in an elite pleasure house in order to hide from a masked hunter sent to retrieve her.
I absolutely love the female empowerment theme woven throughout this book and how Broiny embraces her own sexuality that has otherwise “soiled her reputation”.
Plus, the house is sentient, there are magic creatures, tiny dragons and a household with so many secrets. Oh, and a masked hunter? Say less 💅🏼
This book is being released as a Duology (part 2 comes on August 1st so fortunately it’s not a long wait!)
I absolutely love the female empowerment theme woven throughout this book and how Broiny embraces her own sexuality that has otherwise “soiled her reputation”.
Plus, the house is sentient, there are magic creatures, tiny dragons and a household with so many secrets. Oh, and a masked hunter? Say less 💅🏼
This book is being released as a Duology (part 2 comes on August 1st so fortunately it’s not a long wait!)
Review of advance copy
Now, I'll start off by saying I am not super familiar with Snow White. But I absolutely loved this book. It kept my attention the entire time, and the writing was good quality. I loved the political intrigue throughout the story, and the dual points of view. It was a little confusing when the 2 points of view didn't quite match up, but once I slowed down a bit, I was fine. I think the balance of plot and spice was perfect, and the ending was -chef's kiss-.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 26, 2026
Dear Alexandra Swift,
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of Apples and Gold.
I still have so much to unpack after finishing it. While I can usually process why I love a book immediately, this one forced me to think in entirely new ways. I am still ruminating on the use of literal and symbolic imagery and how it relates to the characters—especially since nothing is what it seems, yet some things are exactly what they appear to be.
Apples and Gold really highlights power dynamics and how the characters' perceptions of power change as they evolve. For me, the main premise focused on each character's struggle to maintain their own version of homeostasis. It is a fantastic spicy version of Snow White, complete with magical spiders, bonded dragons, brooding men, political intrigue, forgotten memories, an age gap, and a found family. I loved the FMC Briony's ability to bargain for leverage and regain control over her life, her body, and her heart. As for the Hunter—friend or foe? Readers will have to find out for themselves.
Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of Apples and Gold.
I still have so much to unpack after finishing it. While I can usually process why I love a book immediately, this one forced me to think in entirely new ways. I am still ruminating on the use of literal and symbolic imagery and how it relates to the characters—especially since nothing is what it seems, yet some things are exactly what they appear to be.
Apples and Gold really highlights power dynamics and how the characters' perceptions of power change as they evolve. For me, the main premise focused on each character's struggle to maintain their own version of homeostasis. It is a fantastic spicy version of Snow White, complete with magical spiders, bonded dragons, brooding men, political intrigue, forgotten memories, an age gap, and a found family. I loved the FMC Briony's ability to bargain for leverage and regain control over her life, her body, and her heart. As for the Hunter—friend or foe? Readers will have to find out for themselves.
Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so lucky to have the opportunity to read this book ahead of it's publication on 31st July. This book is loosely based on the story of Snow White which is what attracted me to delving into this book. Fantasy isn't my usual genre but I am so glad I gave it a chance as I loved it. The magical elements along with a bit of spice woven throughout were well written and if romantasty is your vibe then I'd not hesitate to give this book a read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you love Snow White but feel you are ready to see a totally different side of her.... dive into this!
Briony is running away from home to avoid an arranged marriage to a man 3 times her age. The only problem is she has no money and no where to go!
Briony ends up working in the apple 🍎 a very upmarket brothel, a perfect place to hide from the hunter her step mother has sent to find her!
But will she escape him?
Can't wait for part 2!
Briony is running away from home to avoid an arranged marriage to a man 3 times her age. The only problem is she has no money and no where to go!
Briony ends up working in the apple 🍎 a very upmarket brothel, a perfect place to hide from the hunter her step mother has sent to find her!
But will she escape him?
Can't wait for part 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This adult version/ retelling of Snow White is a must read for those that enjoy reading about princesses. Theres spice and character building. In this retelling, Snow has decided to run away rather than have an arranged marriage arranged by her step mother to save her reputation for being a sexual person. The huntsman is swoon worthy and everything delicious that any girl asks for in a fictional character.
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: Received copy from author
This was such a good book! As someone who loves all fantasy that relates to Disney characters I knew I would enjoy this book.
Throughout the story there’s mystery, tension, and some danger which really just hooked me immediately. Oh and the romance was AMAZING!!!
I cannot wait for part 2 to be released.
This was such a good book! As someone who loves all fantasy that relates to Disney characters I knew I would enjoy this book.
Throughout the story there’s mystery, tension, and some danger which really just hooked me immediately. Oh and the romance was AMAZING!!!
I cannot wait for part 2 to be released.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review of Apples and Gold by @authoralexandraswift
If you think you know Snow White, you don't after reading this. It was different and I liked that! Kept me reading. A woman fighting for her freedom and you are fighting with her.
3.75⭐️
If you think you know Snow White, you don't after reading this. It was different and I liked that! Kept me reading. A woman fighting for her freedom and you are fighting with her.
3.75⭐️
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