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Fantasy and Fairytales #3
Golden Crown
No longer only a warrior. Not just a queen.
Persinette Basile has a new purpose. The chains she’s carried since the curse began are gone, replaced by a crown. But freedom can’t exist while enemies surround Bela on all sides.
La Dame lurks on the border in Dracon, waiting for her revenge.
In Gaule, magic folk are hunted and punished for their Belaen heritage.
A journey into Gaule brings her face to face with the one person who can destroy her with one simple act: dying.
No longer tied to Alex by magic, his death should mean nothing to her.
As she learns more about who she truly is and the legacy of her family, she’s forced to answer three questions.
Can she save the king of Gaule?
Can he be trusted if she does?
And what will it mean for her people if she finds herself unable to let go of him again?
A rebellion. A dying king. And a magical war that could end everything.
Inspired by the Rapunzel story, this is the golden-haired princess as you've never seen her before.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2018
704 people are currently reading
1412 people want to read
About the author
M. Lynn
59 books409 followersMichelle MacQueen is a USA Today bestselling author of love. Yes, love. Whether it be YA romance, NA romance, or fantasy romance (Under M. Lynn), she loves to make readers swoon.
The great loves of her life to this point are two tiny blond creatures who call her "aunt" and proclaim her books to be "boring books" for their lack of pictures. Yet, somehow, she still manages to love them more than chocolate.
When she's not sharing her inexhaustible wisdom with her niece and nephew, Michelle is usually lounging in her ridiculously large bean bag chair creating worlds and characters that remind her to smile every day - even when a feisty five-year-old is telling her just how much she doesn't know.
The great loves of her life to this point are two tiny blond creatures who call her "aunt" and proclaim her books to be "boring books" for their lack of pictures. Yet, somehow, she still manages to love them more than chocolate.
When she's not sharing her inexhaustible wisdom with her niece and nephew, Michelle is usually lounging in her ridiculously large bean bag chair creating worlds and characters that remind her to smile every day - even when a feisty five-year-old is telling her just how much she doesn't know.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
January 17, 2019
I really enjoyed this series and all of the characters. This was a very different retelling of Rapunzel and I think one of the best. No beauty and love in this one!
September 1, 2018
What a perfect ending to a fantastic series! As always the author creates such real and memorable characters that you find yourself so completely immersed in the story and their struggles that hours go by before you know it. Poor Etta and Alex had to face so many obstacles and had me cringing at every turn. Just let them get together already!! I won’t ruin the ending but I promise you won’t be sorry. If you love fairy tale retellings, don’t miss this amazing new series!
November 5, 2018
Okay, I have a lot of feelings regarding this series. Honestly, I haven’t binged a fantasy trilogy in a very long time. Schoolwork is the absolute center of my heads focus right now, but I had a weekend and the interest to read this series.
First of all, it’s supported by a super generic premise and a super generic fantasy world and a super generic framing device. A fight to the death? Cliche. Or course it’s a pro feminist, only the woman in the fight to the death will win amongst men- sort of story. But by book two, I was hooked. I enjoyed the fairytale aspects of it, which combine Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel in creative, unexpected ways. I also interpreted some real King Arthur vibes from it, too. My real gripe with the series is it’s characters, particularly the villains. Gosh, they were bad. La Dame was a cool, Maleficent type villain, but her character elicited no sympathy or real character development beyond the last half of the third book. Also, the so called plot twists, particularly in the first book and the last, make little to no sense and just serve as devices to move the plot along.
I have a love and hate relationship with our main couple. Etta is a great heroine, but unfortunately, she is given a queen storyline that undermines the point. Why is she a queen beyond the fact that the author shoved into the plot that she is ? It is important especially to the third book, but why, with such a feminist angle, is she elevated to a queen when the entire book is trying to say she doesn’t need to be that to be equal to alexandre? Alexandre is the king, and as readers, we’re supposed to root for her, but why make her a queen? To prove only as a queen she can match Alexandre? What’s the point? Also, should we totally ignore the borderline abusive behavior going on between them both? And we are going to ignore the stereotyped masses in Gaule that never bother to delve any deeper into the masses anger at the Belas besides that they just are angry? My biggest gripe is at the end, when I was reading it at night.
Mild spoilers.
Okay, was anyone bothered that Alexandres mother and his council essentially stole his throne, and he was just chill about it? After going on for an entire novel just how important his people are to him, he lets his mother usurp him, and in the epilogue, they act like it’s all hunky dory? Excuse me, he was just usurped, and he barely bats an eye before he moves on? And what’s the whole speel he gives about how he was meant to serve a queen (Etta), it was romantic, but gosh, dude, have a spine!
First of all, it’s supported by a super generic premise and a super generic fantasy world and a super generic framing device. A fight to the death? Cliche. Or course it’s a pro feminist, only the woman in the fight to the death will win amongst men- sort of story. But by book two, I was hooked. I enjoyed the fairytale aspects of it, which combine Sleeping Beauty and Rapunzel in creative, unexpected ways. I also interpreted some real King Arthur vibes from it, too. My real gripe with the series is it’s characters, particularly the villains. Gosh, they were bad. La Dame was a cool, Maleficent type villain, but her character elicited no sympathy or real character development beyond the last half of the third book. Also, the so called plot twists, particularly in the first book and the last, make little to no sense and just serve as devices to move the plot along.
I have a love and hate relationship with our main couple. Etta is a great heroine, but unfortunately, she is given a queen storyline that undermines the point. Why is she a queen beyond the fact that the author shoved into the plot that she is ? It is important especially to the third book, but why, with such a feminist angle, is she elevated to a queen when the entire book is trying to say she doesn’t need to be that to be equal to alexandre? Alexandre is the king, and as readers, we’re supposed to root for her, but why make her a queen? To prove only as a queen she can match Alexandre? What’s the point? Also, should we totally ignore the borderline abusive behavior going on between them both? And we are going to ignore the stereotyped masses in Gaule that never bother to delve any deeper into the masses anger at the Belas besides that they just are angry? My biggest gripe is at the end, when I was reading it at night.
Mild spoilers.
Okay, was anyone bothered that Alexandres mother and his council essentially stole his throne, and he was just chill about it? After going on for an entire novel just how important his people are to him, he lets his mother usurp him, and in the epilogue, they act like it’s all hunky dory? Excuse me, he was just usurped, and he barely bats an eye before he moves on? And what’s the whole speel he gives about how he was meant to serve a queen (Etta), it was romantic, but gosh, dude, have a spine!
February 22, 2024
4.25
To be honest with you this series is probably going to have a hold on me a lot longer than I ever will admit. If Rapunzel was originally told like this, I would have absolutely no worry about reading it sooner... this book starts right off where the second ended and brings you through the ringer for THE ENTIRE FRIGGEN BOOK
2024 Reads 15/150
To be honest with you this series is probably going to have a hold on me a lot longer than I ever will admit. If Rapunzel was originally told like this, I would have absolutely no worry about reading it sooner... this book starts right off where the second ended and brings you through the ringer for THE ENTIRE FRIGGEN BOOK
2024 Reads 15/150
November 5, 2018
This whole series and this last book particularly were so jumpy, choppy and poorly transition between scenes.
Aside from the fact this feels like a rush job the story had only the bare bones of a concept.
Tortured by evil queen whose color scheme is black hair: ✔️
Evil villian who lives forever because no one knows but they're bad cause of it:✔️
The good character has blonde hair : ✔️
Have the story claim magic isn't evil but end with too much magic is evil: ✔️ despite the story claiming what you do with magic determines how good or bad it is the story ends with certain magic is evil. Which goes against the major message the people with magic claim.
There's just so many counterdictions in the motivations and decisions. I can't even express how confusing this story was. I had to sit down and flip back through certain paragraphs just to make sure that I had the right characters were the ones speaking. And gee surprise. The girl who betrayed her was actually forced too and her mom was doing the betraying when the daughter wasn't there and so when the mother was no longer in the story then the daughter is back and all if forgiven??
Also why did the evil queen live so long. It literally never explains it.
Aside from the fact this feels like a rush job the story had only the bare bones of a concept.
Tortured by evil queen whose color scheme is black hair: ✔️
Evil villian who lives forever because no one knows but they're bad cause of it:✔️
The good character has blonde hair : ✔️
Have the story claim magic isn't evil but end with too much magic is evil: ✔️ despite the story claiming what you do with magic determines how good or bad it is the story ends with certain magic is evil. Which goes against the major message the people with magic claim.
There's just so many counterdictions in the motivations and decisions. I can't even express how confusing this story was. I had to sit down and flip back through certain paragraphs just to make sure that I had the right characters were the ones speaking. And gee surprise. The girl who betrayed her was actually forced too and her mom was doing the betraying when the daughter wasn't there and so when the mother was no longer in the story then the daughter is back and all if forgiven??
Also why did the evil queen live so long. It literally never explains it.
August 21, 2020
I really, really wasn't into it. Even though it was so hard for me to get through! Just like in the last one, I felt like the characters were doing a lot of things kinda out of character, and Etta felt so so so so so annoying to me! I understand the whole power thing, but I mean you don't have to be that terrible about it right?? Man, it was just really hard to get through, and only because I knew how it was going to end, I kept reading, because if it would've ended bad, I never would've started this one. I just feel like it really wasn't good, sorry :( It took me way too long to get through..
December 22, 2021
I liked the premise so I stuck with it, but by the time I got to Book 3 I found myself seriously questioning my ability to make good choices.
Between him "claiming her lips as if they were his own" and her "deepening the kiss," I felt like my brain had been claimed by a hair cloth shirt. If you call that an eloquent analogy, this trilogy is for you.
Between him "claiming her lips as if they were his own" and her "deepening the kiss," I felt like my brain had been claimed by a hair cloth shirt. If you call that an eloquent analogy, this trilogy is for you.
November 26, 2023
Last one, worst one honestly. I struggled to want to read this. I had a dreading feeling all the way through and did not enjoy reading this. Then at the end the solution to all the issues is wayyy too easy in my opinion.
August 15, 2020
I'm just exhausted, I was so not into this one. It was just so mechanical, as if stuff was happening, but I wasn't giving a damn.
Long story short, I'm glad it ended nicely, but I was ready to tear my hair out by the time it did.
I will not be reading the other books in this series any time soon, but I might give them a chance later, just not right now, I'm sick of this universe right now.
The only reason this got 4 stars was because i was so happy it ended nicely, I'm riding the wave of euphoria.
Also, the cover is really beautiful, that got this a 1/2 star.
August 31, 2018
This book gave me "all the feels" as they say. I cried twice, was enraged a couple of times, on edge for half the book and then finally content. There was also a handful of amusement thrown into this action packed finale.
Quite the ride and a Rapunzel reimagining as you've never seen her. Highly recommended.
Quite the ride and a Rapunzel reimagining as you've never seen her. Highly recommended.
December 6, 2018
Well, this was a bit of a bummer. I really liked the first two books on this series, but this one felt... underwhelming, at best. Choppy, rushed, cliched, which were things that almost made it through in the first two novels but the author managed to just escape it. Not on this one. Etta and Alexandre act so out of character throughout the last book it is like they're two different characters altogether. Sure, Persinette was under the curse and we can blame that for her uncanny behaviour, but Alex was under no curse, was he? Nothing about him in the final book makes sense. The final battle was really confusing and predictable, as was everything about La Dame, sadly. I was hoping to get more about her, to learn more of her, but alas! she ended up being just the mean ole' villain because the book needed a villain. This was the most one dimensional character of all. A disappointment. Then there's the chapter after chapter of endless repition, that could have been used to... I don't know, maybe explore the characters more? I was underwhelmed by this final instalment, but had a great time reading the first two books.
January 24, 2019
Who are you? If everything you thought your life was supposed to be crumbled away before your eyes who are you now? What is the difference between good and evil? Is there a difference or is it just about perspective?
This review may contain a few suggestive spoilers but will not give away the entirety of the story line!
Our main characters must ask themselves these questions. As the future they had spent their lives planning for disappears before their eyes, they must figure out who they are now and what their new future holds.
Life finally comes back to Bela but with La Dame just over the border in Dracon, how long do they have? Will the kingdom parish before it is able to really start again?
Change is happening in Gaule, whether the people are ready for it or not. But in trying to right the wrongs of his father, could Alex just be doing more harm than good? By trying to help the Belaens within his kingdoms borders, is he just causing more hurt?
Meanwhile, Etta struggles to gain control of her new Basile powers and rediscover her lost sense of self. Progress is slow and her anger and frustration is fanned by the living magic coursing through her but she can't give up if she's to save her friends, family, and her people.
Things finally come to a head when La Dame and Persinette go head to head. It is then that Etta must question what is good, what is evil and whether she can pay the price required to save her people? What must Etta give up? What must Etta become to win? Can she survive the changes and the sacrifices?
This portion of the review contains end of story ruminations. If you haven't finished the book yet and don't want the ending even hinted at, don't read any further!
Gaaahhh!!! So good, so many questions!!!
Is La Dame really defeated?
Who will rise in her stead?
Is all of the ancient Basile and Dracon power really gone? It's mentioned that Etta still gets bursts of anger and frustration that isn't hers.
What will happen in Gaule? How will the people react to their new ruler?
Will Matteo ever get his powers? (I personally think he's got healing powers and that's why he hasn't manifested. Etta had them and since her mother was non-magic folk, the Draconian powers had to come from further back in her lineage which means Matteo should also had Draconian magic running through his blood!)
What comes next for all our favorite sporting characters?!
Simply cannot wait to continue the series and the future story arcs. I'm looking forward to new stories while still getting updates on our favorite characters from Rapunzel's story.
This review may contain a few suggestive spoilers but will not give away the entirety of the story line!
Our main characters must ask themselves these questions. As the future they had spent their lives planning for disappears before their eyes, they must figure out who they are now and what their new future holds.
Life finally comes back to Bela but with La Dame just over the border in Dracon, how long do they have? Will the kingdom parish before it is able to really start again?
Change is happening in Gaule, whether the people are ready for it or not. But in trying to right the wrongs of his father, could Alex just be doing more harm than good? By trying to help the Belaens within his kingdoms borders, is he just causing more hurt?
Meanwhile, Etta struggles to gain control of her new Basile powers and rediscover her lost sense of self. Progress is slow and her anger and frustration is fanned by the living magic coursing through her but she can't give up if she's to save her friends, family, and her people.
Things finally come to a head when La Dame and Persinette go head to head. It is then that Etta must question what is good, what is evil and whether she can pay the price required to save her people? What must Etta give up? What must Etta become to win? Can she survive the changes and the sacrifices?
This portion of the review contains end of story ruminations. If you haven't finished the book yet and don't want the ending even hinted at, don't read any further!
Gaaahhh!!! So good, so many questions!!!
Is La Dame really defeated?
Who will rise in her stead?
Is all of the ancient Basile and Dracon power really gone? It's mentioned that Etta still gets bursts of anger and frustration that isn't hers.
What will happen in Gaule? How will the people react to their new ruler?
Will Matteo ever get his powers? (I personally think he's got healing powers and that's why he hasn't manifested. Etta had them and since her mother was non-magic folk, the Draconian powers had to come from further back in her lineage which means Matteo should also had Draconian magic running through his blood!)
What comes next for all our favorite sporting characters?!
Simply cannot wait to continue the series and the future story arcs. I'm looking forward to new stories while still getting updates on our favorite characters from Rapunzel's story.
August 2, 2021
Persinette "Etta" Basile, now Queen of Bela, is facing war against La Dame. She has to learn to control her powers, otherwise they stand no chance. At the same time Alexander Durant is trying to get his kingdom and his crown back. But can he unite his people with the magic folk?
This is the last book in the Rapunzel retelling - and the only one I didn't LOVE. Golden Crown is still really good, but I don't like what the magic is doing to Etta. I can understand the darkness and the power of the magic, but it gets "too much" when Etta can't recognise her friends, or is oblivious to who she hurts. Also, the build up to the fight with La Dame is really long (it started in the last book), and then it's over rather quickly; it's almost an anticlimax.
We get the expected ending, although the road there is complicated and full of twists and turns. I will miss Etta, Alex, Edmund, Tyson and the others, but at the same time I feel satisfied and happy.
This is the last book in the Rapunzel retelling - and the only one I didn't LOVE. Golden Crown is still really good, but I don't like what the magic is doing to Etta. I can understand the darkness and the power of the magic, but it gets "too much" when Etta can't recognise her friends, or is oblivious to who she hurts. Also, the build up to the fight with La Dame is really long (it started in the last book), and then it's over rather quickly; it's almost an anticlimax.
We get the expected ending, although the road there is complicated and full of twists and turns. I will miss Etta, Alex, Edmund, Tyson and the others, but at the same time I feel satisfied and happy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2018
I am sad to have finished this book. It’s impossible to describe how much I have enjoyed this magical story. I fell in love with all the wonderful characters. Shared their pain and reveled in their joy. A story with so much passion you can’t help but be drawn into it.
I’ll not give any spoilers but suffice to say I couldn’t have hoped for a better ending.
Awesome book and another book that I wished I hadn’t finished because I loved it so much.
Thanks for creating this Michelle.
I’ll not give any spoilers but suffice to say I couldn’t have hoped for a better ending.
Awesome book and another book that I wished I hadn’t finished because I loved it so much.
Thanks for creating this Michelle.
February 10, 2019
This book!! This series!! It is now one of my all time favorites!! I just love the characters which will now will always have a special place in my heart. It was an incredible journey from Golden Curse though Golden Crown. I'm really not good at reviews so you just get my opinion, I'm sorry. Just know I highly recommend this series!!
December 8, 2020
#3 in the series. Somehow I read the 4th book Glass Kingdom first and had to go back to start at the beginning. Luckily they were available on Overdrive. A fun series but they've all blended together in my head.
March 19, 2024
Looking at the number of people who have read this, I feel like fantasy/romantasy lovers are really sleeping on this series. All three books of Rapunzel’s trilogy were really enjoyable and easy reads. The main and side characters are all really fleshed out and believable (even if not all are lovable). Definitely recommend this one! Especially if you are a fan of retellings.
August 5, 2022
Not awesome - ended the story. A same sex attraction was brought into it. It felt like it had an agenda… that annoys me. But at least there was nothing mentioned of same sex immorality like the other main couple in the book. There was no concept of sexual restraint… overall- It was ok - seeing the story play out with the fairytale was interesting - but didn’t knock my socks off… low 3. Not a recommend…
January 10, 2024
I really enjoyed the ending to this little story!! Very cute very emotional and overall happy in the end I love.
Love the development of the characters and their relationships. I am happy with how everyone's stories ended 😍
Love the development of the characters and their relationships. I am happy with how everyone's stories ended 😍
October 1, 2020
Again, I went against my usual rule and listened to the audiobook without reading it first because that’s what my library had.
I know there are more books in the series that follow other characters, but at least this portion of the story (Etta’s) feels complete. Should she and Alex make appearances in the other books, I’ll be happy to see them; however, it wouldn’t be necessary in order for me to feel content with how these three books ended.
Although I initially was critical in the loose retelling of the Rapunzel story, I’m actually happy with how pieces of it were woven in throughout the series. I still say it was very loose, but the most important elements of the story were present.
How it ends:
Note: Some swearing.
Narrator: Emily Lawrence
She’s all right, but her accents are atrocious.
I know there are more books in the series that follow other characters, but at least this portion of the story (Etta’s) feels complete. Should she and Alex make appearances in the other books, I’ll be happy to see them; however, it wouldn’t be necessary in order for me to feel content with how these three books ended.
Although I initially was critical in the loose retelling of the Rapunzel story, I’m actually happy with how pieces of it were woven in throughout the series. I still say it was very loose, but the most important elements of the story were present.
How it ends:
Note: Some swearing.
Narrator: Emily Lawrence
She’s all right, but her accents are atrocious.
December 18, 2018
Loved it at first, but a little let down
(Warning, spoilers) Books two and three were great. I felt this book had all the makings of an excellent finale, but I think the author really let down Alex’s character. He could have been so much stronger and such a better counterpart for Etta, but I felt like he was purposely pushed to the side in this book. He couldn’t seem to do anything right, was tossed out of his own kingdom as if he never mattered, and was basically useless in the final battle. His role was reduced from kind, loyal, and brave king to a piece of arm candy. I didn’t mind that he wasn’t a great warrior, but he should have played a major role in pulling Etta back from her magic taking her over. Instead, it just played out and there were no real consequences for her letting it spiral out of control. He showed up just in time to see how unnecessary he was. By the end, I felt the horse had a more important role than him. I’m all for powerful female protagonists, but I think her love interest should be her counterpart. He doesn’t have to be weak to make her seem strong. I really wanted to love this book, but just felt bothered by the end.
(Warning, spoilers) Books two and three were great. I felt this book had all the makings of an excellent finale, but I think the author really let down Alex’s character. He could have been so much stronger and such a better counterpart for Etta, but I felt like he was purposely pushed to the side in this book. He couldn’t seem to do anything right, was tossed out of his own kingdom as if he never mattered, and was basically useless in the final battle. His role was reduced from kind, loyal, and brave king to a piece of arm candy. I didn’t mind that he wasn’t a great warrior, but he should have played a major role in pulling Etta back from her magic taking her over. Instead, it just played out and there were no real consequences for her letting it spiral out of control. He showed up just in time to see how unnecessary he was. By the end, I felt the horse had a more important role than him. I’m all for powerful female protagonists, but I think her love interest should be her counterpart. He doesn’t have to be weak to make her seem strong. I really wanted to love this book, but just felt bothered by the end.
December 6, 2018
Too nearly wrapped up
Honestly, I’m disappointed. The book itself was a page turner and I eagerly soaked up every chapter and twist and turn. However, I just feel that the big reveal and ending just fell flat and didn’t do any of the characters real justice. There was no more character building, we saw a few new characters introduced and old favorites all but be ignored.
I wanted so much for the series and it all just wrapped up to neatly, Etta is technically a descendant of La Dame and in the end sacrificed her family’s magic to “win” the big battle. Meanwhile Tyson, Edmund, Matteo, and everyone else that isn’t Alex and Etta get pushed to the side and aren’t given an opportunity to have a conclusion of their own. Yes, I’m aware the epilogue ultimately shows where everyone ends up, but what about Anders and Edmund? How come Matteo never got any powers? That’s it as far as Maiya is concerned? All is forgiven because she saved a crown?
Honestly, I’m disappointed. The book itself was a page turner and I eagerly soaked up every chapter and twist and turn. However, I just feel that the big reveal and ending just fell flat and didn’t do any of the characters real justice. There was no more character building, we saw a few new characters introduced and old favorites all but be ignored.
I wanted so much for the series and it all just wrapped up to neatly, Etta is technically a descendant of La Dame and in the end sacrificed her family’s magic to “win” the big battle. Meanwhile Tyson, Edmund, Matteo, and everyone else that isn’t Alex and Etta get pushed to the side and aren’t given an opportunity to have a conclusion of their own. Yes, I’m aware the epilogue ultimately shows where everyone ends up, but what about Anders and Edmund? How come Matteo never got any powers? That’s it as far as Maiya is concerned? All is forgiven because she saved a crown?
January 3, 2020
I liked this one the least. The end was again choppy, felt rushed in some spots and not enough descriptions to really allow me to experience what is occurring in the book. Didn't enjoy it as well as the others, but I'm glad that it at least has a good ending.
One major critical point in the plot that happens towards the end (will not give it away though) came really out of left field and again felt rushed and out of place/time. I completely agreed with the characters and what they were doing, but I wished it had happened differently. It just felt like a last minute add in to allow the main characters a way to join together and for everything to turn out completely perfect and alright with their world.
Hopefully no one reads too much into my reviews and decides not to read the book. It still gave me about a good week and a half worth of entertainment and provided me with a way to wind down in the evenings during the holiday.
One major critical point in the plot that happens towards the end (will not give it away though) came really out of left field and again felt rushed and out of place/time. I completely agreed with the characters and what they were doing, but I wished it had happened differently. It just felt like a last minute add in to allow the main characters a way to join together and for everything to turn out completely perfect and alright with their world.
Hopefully no one reads too much into my reviews and decides not to read the book. It still gave me about a good week and a half worth of entertainment and provided me with a way to wind down in the evenings during the holiday.
December 3, 2018
I am a sucker for fantasy novels loosely based on fairytales I grew up on (lunar chronicles, anyone?) So I was pretty excited when I found this series. I loved it! But I also had some issues with it.
As far as an ending to the trilogy, it was a good, satisfying ending. But I was so confused during the final battle between Etta and La Dame. Confused as in the action was a bit hard to follow. When the entire series led up to this epic battle I was a little disappointed with it. Not to mention, Alexandre’s own mother and council usurped the throne from him and he was ok with it like an hour later. In the meantime, Etta who was raised as a warrior to serve a king, is just handed a crown because of her bloodline, even though she has a cousin who is much better suited to the royal life. I was disappointed a little. But overall I enjoyed the series, and I recommended it to others!
As far as an ending to the trilogy, it was a good, satisfying ending. But I was so confused during the final battle between Etta and La Dame. Confused as in the action was a bit hard to follow. When the entire series led up to this epic battle I was a little disappointed with it. Not to mention, Alexandre’s own mother and council usurped the throne from him and he was ok with it like an hour later. In the meantime, Etta who was raised as a warrior to serve a king, is just handed a crown because of her bloodline, even though she has a cousin who is much better suited to the royal life. I was disappointed a little. But overall I enjoyed the series, and I recommended it to others!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2019
Eh. They didn’t conclude as well as I’d have liked it too. They Repunzel tie in wasn’t super well done and seemed an after thought necessary cuz the series was ending. The battle with Le Dame was rushed and jumped too much to be fluid and clear. Felt like the author didn’t leave enough pages to do it justice. The overall finish just felt off, not well planned, too quickly wrapped into a happily ever after bow.
January 27, 2026
Golden Crown is the third novel in the Fantasy and Fairytale’s series by M. Lynn and is an exciting conclusion to Etta and Alex’s storyline arc in what is an action packed, edge of your seat instalment that will thrill fans with its adrenaline pumping and romantic fuelled moments.
The curse that has plagued Persinette Basile and her ancestors for generations has finally been broken, and with it her connection to the King of Gaule, Alexandre Durand. Free of her chains, Etta now wears the crown as the Queen of Bela but where her tie to Alex once existed is emptiness…….and a dark magic that is growing in power and control. Determined to bring the fight to La Dame, all Etta can feel is hate and her desire for revenge whilst across the border Alex fights for control of his kingdom. When the animosity and violence within his people spills over to Bela, Etta decides to make the journey to Gaule to find out exactly what is going on. Once there Etta is faced with the unimaginable; a dying king. Though her connection to Alex is severed and her magic determined to convince her he is the enemy, Etta’s heart yearns for Alex and faced with loosing him, Etta will need to make massive strides in controlling her magic or deal with his loss. Yet as the chaos in Gaule grows and magic folk continue to be threatened, can either Etta or Alex prevent the growing discord or is the biggest danger to their reigns not La Dame but their kingdoms themselves?
Ever since I began reading Golden Curse I have fallen in love with Etta and Alex’s story. Golden Crown is the conclusion to their storyline----although I do know there are additional books in the series following other characters---and author M. Lynn brings it to an end beautifully. Throughout the series M. Lynn has woven together a unique twist on the Rapunzel fairy-tale and created a diverse world of magic, political intrigue and romance. Each novel has been fuelled by danger and romance and followed two likable and strong willed protagonists in Etta and Alex as well as a colourful cast of supporting characters. It’s been a pleasure reading these books and I am definitely looking forward exploring more of M. Lynn’s realm in other instalments.
After the events of the last novel, heroine Etta struggles under the pressure of being Queen and her new powers in Golden Crown. No longer tethered to Alex, the Basile power within warps her feelings for him and leaves Etta full of hate and anger; wondering how she could have ever cared for the enemy King. Golden Crown offered yet another internal battle for Etta to fight within herself. This time it is the Basile magic that alters her feelings and desires, even as her heart battles for truth. I think Etta has grown well throughout this series and Golden Crown the pinnacle of all she has become. Whilst Golden Chains was the turning point in Alex’s mentality towards magic, Golden Crown marks the beginning of Etta reconciling the two parts of herself; Etta the cursed protector and Persinette the future Queen. And it was enjoyable reading.
Etta and Alex have overcome so many obstacles to be together. There’s no denying their dedication to one another despite lies, curses and confusing feelings getting in the way. Seeing them alongside their dedicated friends and family---Edmund, Tyson, Amalie, Matteo---has been a real pleasure and I’m delighted to know that so many future adventures are in store for these characters including Tyson and Amalie in the rest of the series. M. Lynn did a wonderful job weaving her characters lives and histories together and daring to feature a different take on Rapunzel.
Though Golden Crown marks the end of Alex and Etta’s tale, I look forward to re-reading their adventures and exploring the rest of the Fantasy and Fairytale’s series. Perfect for fans of the Ruined trilogy by Amy Tintera, this series is one I highly recommend if you want a fairy-tale retelling with a fantasy twist that is full of personable and lovable characters, excitement and tangible romance.
The curse that has plagued Persinette Basile and her ancestors for generations has finally been broken, and with it her connection to the King of Gaule, Alexandre Durand. Free of her chains, Etta now wears the crown as the Queen of Bela but where her tie to Alex once existed is emptiness…….and a dark magic that is growing in power and control. Determined to bring the fight to La Dame, all Etta can feel is hate and her desire for revenge whilst across the border Alex fights for control of his kingdom. When the animosity and violence within his people spills over to Bela, Etta decides to make the journey to Gaule to find out exactly what is going on. Once there Etta is faced with the unimaginable; a dying king. Though her connection to Alex is severed and her magic determined to convince her he is the enemy, Etta’s heart yearns for Alex and faced with loosing him, Etta will need to make massive strides in controlling her magic or deal with his loss. Yet as the chaos in Gaule grows and magic folk continue to be threatened, can either Etta or Alex prevent the growing discord or is the biggest danger to their reigns not La Dame but their kingdoms themselves?
Ever since I began reading Golden Curse I have fallen in love with Etta and Alex’s story. Golden Crown is the conclusion to their storyline----although I do know there are additional books in the series following other characters---and author M. Lynn brings it to an end beautifully. Throughout the series M. Lynn has woven together a unique twist on the Rapunzel fairy-tale and created a diverse world of magic, political intrigue and romance. Each novel has been fuelled by danger and romance and followed two likable and strong willed protagonists in Etta and Alex as well as a colourful cast of supporting characters. It’s been a pleasure reading these books and I am definitely looking forward exploring more of M. Lynn’s realm in other instalments.
After the events of the last novel, heroine Etta struggles under the pressure of being Queen and her new powers in Golden Crown. No longer tethered to Alex, the Basile power within warps her feelings for him and leaves Etta full of hate and anger; wondering how she could have ever cared for the enemy King. Golden Crown offered yet another internal battle for Etta to fight within herself. This time it is the Basile magic that alters her feelings and desires, even as her heart battles for truth. I think Etta has grown well throughout this series and Golden Crown the pinnacle of all she has become. Whilst Golden Chains was the turning point in Alex’s mentality towards magic, Golden Crown marks the beginning of Etta reconciling the two parts of herself; Etta the cursed protector and Persinette the future Queen. And it was enjoyable reading.
Etta and Alex have overcome so many obstacles to be together. There’s no denying their dedication to one another despite lies, curses and confusing feelings getting in the way. Seeing them alongside their dedicated friends and family---Edmund, Tyson, Amalie, Matteo---has been a real pleasure and I’m delighted to know that so many future adventures are in store for these characters including Tyson and Amalie in the rest of the series. M. Lynn did a wonderful job weaving her characters lives and histories together and daring to feature a different take on Rapunzel.
Though Golden Crown marks the end of Alex and Etta’s tale, I look forward to re-reading their adventures and exploring the rest of the Fantasy and Fairytale’s series. Perfect for fans of the Ruined trilogy by Amy Tintera, this series is one I highly recommend if you want a fairy-tale retelling with a fantasy twist that is full of personable and lovable characters, excitement and tangible romance.
May 28, 2025
📖 Overview
*Golden Crown* continues the tale of Persinette Basile, known as Etta, following the events of *Golden Chains*. Etta, once a warrior bound by a magical curse, now wears a crown as the queen of Bela. With the curse lifted, she seeks to unite her fractured world, confront lingering threats, and navigate complex relationships, particularly with King Alexandre of Gaule.
---
## 🏰 Setting the Stage
* **Etta's New Role**: Having ascended to the throne of Bela, Etta is determined to lead her people toward a future free from oppression. However, the kingdom faces threats from multiple fronts, including the lingering menace of La Dame and tensions with Gaule.
* **Alexandre's Dilemma**: King Alexandre of Gaule grapples with the consequences of his decision to legalize magic. His kingdom teeters on the brink of civil war, and his health deteriorates due to a mysterious illness. The dissolution of the magical bond between him and Etta adds emotional complexity to their interactions.
---
## 🔗 The Broken Bond
The magical bond that once connected Etta and Alexandre has been severed. While this grants them autonomy, it also introduces uncertainty about their true feelings for each other. Etta must confront her emotions and decide whether her connection to Alexandre is genuine or a remnant of the past.
---
## 🧙♀️ The Threat of La Dame
La Dame, the enigmatic antagonist who cursed Etta, remains a significant threat. She lurks on the border in Dracon, seeking revenge and aiming to destabilize the fragile peace between Bela and Gaule. Her machinations force Etta and Alexandre to confront painful truths and make difficult choices.([Barnes & Noble][1], [Audible.com][2])
---
## 🕊️ Political Intrigue and Rebellion
* **Gaule's Turmoil**: The legalization of magic in Gaule has led to unrest among its citizens. Magic folk, once persecuted, now seek justice, while traditionalists resist the change, leading to a brewing rebellion.([Barnes & Noble][1])
* **Bela's Challenges**: Etta faces the daunting task of uniting her people and defending her kingdom against external threats. She must navigate political alliances and prepare for potential conflicts.
---
## ❤️ Character Development and Relationships
* **Etta**: Etta's journey is marked by resilience and introspection. She grapples with her identity, the implications of her magical heritage, and her feelings for Alexandre. Her evolution from a prisoner seeking vengeance to a figure of strength and compassion is central to the narrative.
* **Alexandre**: Alexandre undergoes significant growth, confronting the biases instilled in him and striving to become a just ruler. His internal conflict between duty and personal beliefs adds depth to his character and influences his decisions throughout the story.
---
## ⚔️ Climax and Resolution
The climax revolves around the rescue of King Alexandre and the confrontation with La Dame. Etta's courage and determination play a pivotal role in overcoming the challenges posed by La Dame. The resolution sees a tentative reconciliation between Etta and Alexandre, setting the stage for future developments in their relationship and the fate of their kingdoms.
---
## 📚 Conclusion
*Golden Crown* delves deeper into the complexities of its characters and the intricacies of a world divided by fear and prejudice. Through Etta's and Alexandre's intertwined journeys, the narrative explores themes of identity, love, and the struggle against societal norms. The book sets the foundation for the subsequent installment, promising further exploration of the characters' destinies and the future of their realms.
*Golden Crown* continues the tale of Persinette Basile, known as Etta, following the events of *Golden Chains*. Etta, once a warrior bound by a magical curse, now wears a crown as the queen of Bela. With the curse lifted, she seeks to unite her fractured world, confront lingering threats, and navigate complex relationships, particularly with King Alexandre of Gaule.
---
## 🏰 Setting the Stage
* **Etta's New Role**: Having ascended to the throne of Bela, Etta is determined to lead her people toward a future free from oppression. However, the kingdom faces threats from multiple fronts, including the lingering menace of La Dame and tensions with Gaule.
* **Alexandre's Dilemma**: King Alexandre of Gaule grapples with the consequences of his decision to legalize magic. His kingdom teeters on the brink of civil war, and his health deteriorates due to a mysterious illness. The dissolution of the magical bond between him and Etta adds emotional complexity to their interactions.
---
## 🔗 The Broken Bond
The magical bond that once connected Etta and Alexandre has been severed. While this grants them autonomy, it also introduces uncertainty about their true feelings for each other. Etta must confront her emotions and decide whether her connection to Alexandre is genuine or a remnant of the past.
---
## 🧙♀️ The Threat of La Dame
La Dame, the enigmatic antagonist who cursed Etta, remains a significant threat. She lurks on the border in Dracon, seeking revenge and aiming to destabilize the fragile peace between Bela and Gaule. Her machinations force Etta and Alexandre to confront painful truths and make difficult choices.([Barnes & Noble][1], [Audible.com][2])
---
## 🕊️ Political Intrigue and Rebellion
* **Gaule's Turmoil**: The legalization of magic in Gaule has led to unrest among its citizens. Magic folk, once persecuted, now seek justice, while traditionalists resist the change, leading to a brewing rebellion.([Barnes & Noble][1])
* **Bela's Challenges**: Etta faces the daunting task of uniting her people and defending her kingdom against external threats. She must navigate political alliances and prepare for potential conflicts.
---
## ❤️ Character Development and Relationships
* **Etta**: Etta's journey is marked by resilience and introspection. She grapples with her identity, the implications of her magical heritage, and her feelings for Alexandre. Her evolution from a prisoner seeking vengeance to a figure of strength and compassion is central to the narrative.
* **Alexandre**: Alexandre undergoes significant growth, confronting the biases instilled in him and striving to become a just ruler. His internal conflict between duty and personal beliefs adds depth to his character and influences his decisions throughout the story.
---
## ⚔️ Climax and Resolution
The climax revolves around the rescue of King Alexandre and the confrontation with La Dame. Etta's courage and determination play a pivotal role in overcoming the challenges posed by La Dame. The resolution sees a tentative reconciliation between Etta and Alexandre, setting the stage for future developments in their relationship and the fate of their kingdoms.
---
## 📚 Conclusion
*Golden Crown* delves deeper into the complexities of its characters and the intricacies of a world divided by fear and prejudice. Through Etta's and Alexandre's intertwined journeys, the narrative explores themes of identity, love, and the struggle against societal norms. The book sets the foundation for the subsequent installment, promising further exploration of the characters' destinies and the future of their realms.
June 21, 2019
[This is a review for the whole trilogy, not the individual book]
I came across this series at a good price, and decided to give it a shot after seeing it was rated rather highly on Goodreads.
First, let me give credit where it is due – I found the overarching plot to be compelling enough that I read this series to the end. After reading the first book, and struggling with some of the flaws, I seriously questioned whether it was worth reading the whole series. But I did. And it was because I was invested enough in the characters and the story to keep going for the sake of closure. And it was worth reading to the end, because the author finished the story well and had a satisfying ending. So kudos there.
That being said, I had three major complaints with the book (hidden for spoilers):
I came across this series at a good price, and decided to give it a shot after seeing it was rated rather highly on Goodreads.
First, let me give credit where it is due – I found the overarching plot to be compelling enough that I read this series to the end. After reading the first book, and struggling with some of the flaws, I seriously questioned whether it was worth reading the whole series. But I did. And it was because I was invested enough in the characters and the story to keep going for the sake of closure. And it was worth reading to the end, because the author finished the story well and had a satisfying ending. So kudos there.
That being said, I had three major complaints with the book (hidden for spoilers):
September 23, 2018
This was such a perfect ending to this series!! The author has done a wonderful job of creating memorable characters that you can't help but become attached to. In fact, I was almost sad to finish the series and leave them behind. I was incredibly relieved when the author told me about some of her future books revisiting them. M. Lynn really made this retelling of the beloved Rapunzel story completely alone, while still leaving enough of the elements to fully pay the original the respect it deserves. This story had the perfect blend of intrigue, romance, hate, and drama. I couldn't put the book down once I started reading. There are also elements of other fairy tales that really made things more interesting.
This time, Etta and Alexandre are separated for most of the book as Alexandre tries to regain peace and stop the civil war threatening to break out within his kingdom. At the same time, Etta learns what it means to be a Queen to her people and tries to learn to use and control her powers. She has put the barrier between Gaule and Bela, and Dracon, as well, in an effort to both protect Gaule from La Dame and her own people from those in Gaule who fear and even despise those with magical abilities. They're both also suffering from the loss of the "curse" that had previously linked the two of them together. Etta knows that the only way she can really keep the two kingdoms safe is to finally defeat La Dame, so this time she takes the fight to Dracon and La Dame instead of waiting for them to strike. What ensues is just an amazing story of action and magic. I hardly wanted to blink as I just had to reach the conclusion and find out what would ultimately happen. Both Etta and Alexandre had difficult decisions to make and I think everyone involved chose well. I can't wait to read more by this wonderful author and, especially, revisit my beloved characters from the True Story of Rapunzel series.
This time, Etta and Alexandre are separated for most of the book as Alexandre tries to regain peace and stop the civil war threatening to break out within his kingdom. At the same time, Etta learns what it means to be a Queen to her people and tries to learn to use and control her powers. She has put the barrier between Gaule and Bela, and Dracon, as well, in an effort to both protect Gaule from La Dame and her own people from those in Gaule who fear and even despise those with magical abilities. They're both also suffering from the loss of the "curse" that had previously linked the two of them together. Etta knows that the only way she can really keep the two kingdoms safe is to finally defeat La Dame, so this time she takes the fight to Dracon and La Dame instead of waiting for them to strike. What ensues is just an amazing story of action and magic. I hardly wanted to blink as I just had to reach the conclusion and find out what would ultimately happen. Both Etta and Alexandre had difficult decisions to make and I think everyone involved chose well. I can't wait to read more by this wonderful author and, especially, revisit my beloved characters from the True Story of Rapunzel series.
October 31, 2018
This final book in the re- telling of the fairytale Rapunzel, was ingenious in the way the storyline was told and came to a close. I was left at the end of book.2. “Golden Chains” feeling bereft. I was a blubbering wreck when Etta sent Alex away, with his heartbroken. In Golden Crown we see Etta’s struggles with the her new intensity of magic. She has to work out how to control it before it controls her. She has to become a queen, a leader for the battle against La Dame, but will she lose herself in the end. Alex is left with nothing but fighting for his family and throne. One he may do, one he may have no choice in. The bonds of friendship between the main characters fight to keep the Etta & Alex love alive. In reality it never really died, but 2 crowns stand in their way. The storyline continues to give hope & betrayal, light & dark, friendship & loyalty, despair & grief, hate & love, amongst so much more. M.Lynn has transcended a traditional Fairytale with an amazing imagination. More importantly to me, she enabled me to feel the strength of her characters with their emotions touching me wholeheartedly, this is what bought her story to life. This is the first series I have read by M.Lynn and I 100% Recommend this fantasy smorgasbord
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