What do you think?
Rate this book
Circle of the Rose Chronicles #2
Cin d'Rella and the Golden Apple
While Cin tries to help Coltan with the new reality of his life, a host of surprising complications crop up which take them both on a journey of self-discovery. With the help of a mysterious ally, Cin and her friends embark upon a quest to find a magical object known as the golden apple. It’s said that whoever possesses the apple is granted one wish. Figuring out where this legendary item is located won’t be the hard part. Discovering how to get there and surviving the journey to its resting place may end up costing Cin more than she bargained for.
After tragedy strikes the city of Briardale, a new adversary rises from the ashes and threatens to destroy everything Cin loves. Not only will Cin have to rely on the other Thorns to help her protect the city from this new foe, but she’ll also have to trust her new angelic friends to guide her to her destiny. As if all of this wasn’t enough, Cin must also learn how to balance both duty to the Thorns and love for a man she can no longer view as her enemy.
After tragedy strikes the city of Briardale, a new adversary rises from the ashes and threatens to destroy everything Cin loves. Not only will Cin have to rely on the other Thorns to help her protect the city from this new foe, but she’ll also have to trust her new angelic friends to guide her to her destiny. As if all of this wasn’t enough, Cin must also learn how to balance both duty to the Thorns and love for a man she can no longer view as her enemy.
- GenresFantasy
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2018
149 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
S.J. West
76 books1,190 followersOnce upon a time, a little girl was born on a cold winter morning in the heart of Seoul, Korea. She was brought to America by her parents and raised in the Deep South where the words ma'am and y'all became an integrated part of her lexicon. She wrote her first novel at the age of eight and continued writing on and off during her teenage years. In college she studied biology and chemistry and finally combined the two by earning a master's degree in biochemistry. After that she moved to Yankee land where she lived for four years working in a laboratory at Cornell University. Homesickness and snow aversion forced her back South where she lives in the land which spawned Elvis Presley, Oprah Winfrey, John Grisham and B.B. King. After finding her Prince Charming, she gave birth to a wondrous gift named Caylin and they all lived happily ever after.
The second book to the Harvester of Light trilogy will be available for purchase no later than December 2012.
The second book to the Harvester of Light trilogy will be available for purchase no later than December 2012.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
September 21, 2022
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I enjoyed this book, more than book 1 as there was a lot more action and adventure, which makes sense because book 1 had a lot more world building before we got to the actual meat of the story. Cin and her best friends/sister/squad become Thorns, and get to go into the room that Briar Rose is asleep in. They also find out that Briar Rose’s true origins have been hidden from everyone apart from those that have graduated to become Thorns. They also have to take what they learnt to the grave. After Coltan’s mother’s death he decides that it’s time to make his move across the river, and contacts Maximus to come get him as he needs help getting them books he found in the secret room in the back of the Prince Crypt as they could help the Guild find a way to finally break the curse and wake Briar Rose.
Cin, and her squad go to help. Cin’s a bit angry at Coltan since he left and hasn’t been in touch. It all melts away when Gretel gives it to her straight, that she needs to cut him some slack as he’s grieving and about to leave the only family he knows after losing his mother, and he’s going to need Cin now more than ever. Cin is slowly learning to drop her walls where Coltan is concerned which is great to see. There were a lot of twists and turns during this book that I wasn’t expecting. Cin, Gretel and Colton all find out more about where they came from. I wonder if Commander Ford is actually bad, and she was actually the person who betrayed Cin by trying to kill her, instead of Thorn Everly who now resides on Shadow Island as Thorn Everly maintained her innocence even when she went to trial. I’m really looking forward to reading book 3 and finding out what Cin, her squad and Coltan have to face next in order to find a way to break the curse. I’d recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
I enjoyed this book, more than book 1 as there was a lot more action and adventure, which makes sense because book 1 had a lot more world building before we got to the actual meat of the story. Cin and her best friends/sister/squad become Thorns, and get to go into the room that Briar Rose is asleep in. They also find out that Briar Rose’s true origins have been hidden from everyone apart from those that have graduated to become Thorns. They also have to take what they learnt to the grave. After Coltan’s mother’s death he decides that it’s time to make his move across the river, and contacts Maximus to come get him as he needs help getting them books he found in the secret room in the back of the Prince Crypt as they could help the Guild find a way to finally break the curse and wake Briar Rose.
Cin, and her squad go to help. Cin’s a bit angry at Coltan since he left and hasn’t been in touch. It all melts away when Gretel gives it to her straight, that she needs to cut him some slack as he’s grieving and about to leave the only family he knows after losing his mother, and he’s going to need Cin now more than ever. Cin is slowly learning to drop her walls where Coltan is concerned which is great to see. There were a lot of twists and turns during this book that I wasn’t expecting. Cin, Gretel and Colton all find out more about where they came from. I wonder if Commander Ford is actually bad, and she was actually the person who betrayed Cin by trying to kill her, instead of Thorn Everly who now resides on Shadow Island as Thorn Everly maintained her innocence even when she went to trial. I’m really looking forward to reading book 3 and finding out what Cin, her squad and Coltan have to face next in order to find a way to break the curse. I’d recommend this book, series and author to everyone.
January 28, 2021
So many things happened in one short day. I'm pretty sure their days are different in this world.
Coltan left the Prince controlled side of town. He managed to bring these secert manuscripts with him. He is planning to live with Maximus. These manuscripts are a game changer and gives them a clue. They need to find a Golden Apple. Maximus runs off to check into something. Darcy goes Supernova and Sela the sea witch breaks out of prison.
Find out Cin can see and talk to spirits. That was interesting. Some strange conversations happening.
Isabel's dad survived the supernova but found lots of interesting information about him and from him. He stole Gertel from this other "world" he had found. Gertel can open a portal to this place that is actually just another part of their country/planet.
Find out Gertel is a dragon shifter and has 7 brothers. They help guard Briar Rose's sister Snow White. Sela the sea witch attacks and tells Cin her mom was an angel.
So find out Maximus killed her mom after her mom tried to kill her. Coltan is actually Maximus' son which he already thought might be the case. Cin needs a minute after all the revelations and gets hit in the head. She wakes up on the prison island and the book pretty much ends there.
Coltan left the Prince controlled side of town. He managed to bring these secert manuscripts with him. He is planning to live with Maximus. These manuscripts are a game changer and gives them a clue. They need to find a Golden Apple. Maximus runs off to check into something. Darcy goes Supernova and Sela the sea witch breaks out of prison.
Find out Cin can see and talk to spirits. That was interesting. Some strange conversations happening.
Isabel's dad survived the supernova but found lots of interesting information about him and from him. He stole Gertel from this other "world" he had found. Gertel can open a portal to this place that is actually just another part of their country/planet.
Find out Gertel is a dragon shifter and has 7 brothers. They help guard Briar Rose's sister Snow White. Sela the sea witch attacks and tells Cin her mom was an angel.
So find out Maximus killed her mom after her mom tried to kill her. Coltan is actually Maximus' son which he already thought might be the case. Cin needs a minute after all the revelations and gets hit in the head. She wakes up on the prison island and the book pretty much ends there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2019
*I have received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The author really made me enjoy the novel even more. I just had a great time reading it. First off, the heroine becomes even better in this novel. She grows so much. She is far from the stereotypical Cinderella you get. She is such a kick-butt character. Additionally, I really liked the love interest too. He was waaay to swoony. I just wished that he was my love interest in real life.
The romance and world-building in this novel are A+. I really liked how the romance is starting to sizzle. There is still a mild flame of angst, but I like how the characters are gradually falling for each other. None of it is it forced. Plus, the kissing scenes were super sweet, so that is an added plus. In addition, I really liked how we get to expand on the amazing fantastical world the author created. There were so many twists and turns. Nothing that you expected.
All in all, this is another great novel from an amazing author. I highly recommend this novel. Go one click it.
The author really made me enjoy the novel even more. I just had a great time reading it. First off, the heroine becomes even better in this novel. She grows so much. She is far from the stereotypical Cinderella you get. She is such a kick-butt character. Additionally, I really liked the love interest too. He was waaay to swoony. I just wished that he was my love interest in real life.
The romance and world-building in this novel are A+. I really liked how the romance is starting to sizzle. There is still a mild flame of angst, but I like how the characters are gradually falling for each other. None of it is it forced. Plus, the kissing scenes were super sweet, so that is an added plus. In addition, I really liked how we get to expand on the amazing fantastical world the author created. There were so many twists and turns. Nothing that you expected.
All in all, this is another great novel from an amazing author. I highly recommend this novel. Go one click it.
January 10, 2019
I am always nervous about reading a second book in a series. So many times, I am disappointed because the plots and characters fall short of the wonders of the first book. Well that IS NOT the case here. The author does a fantastic job keeping the plot and characters just as interesting! Once Again, I feel into the Briardale world and just when I think I have it figured out, bam, a new twist to some of my favorite fairy tales! I highly recommend reading this series if you like twisted versions of the classic fairytales!
Cin and her friends are forced to accept some major, life altering truths about themselves as they try to awaken Briar Rose. New foes and new fairy tales are introduced to Cin’s world and the ride is wild!
Cin and her friends are forced to accept some major, life altering truths about themselves as they try to awaken Briar Rose. New foes and new fairy tales are introduced to Cin’s world and the ride is wild!
June 12, 2020
This is the same review as the first novel, because it exactly echoed my sentiments.
Such a fun story. I love the premise and especially this world. And stuff keeps building. I love how the fairy tale elements have been changed and the twists they bring. I even love the characters. I’m most interested in learning about Coltan. And I think the Commander is evil. I think that will be unveiled in the end of the series. Love Gretel. Lots of magic, and it’s cool how they used magic to make the modern work work after they were shut off from it.
I did find a lot of parts dragged, and I found the narrative repetitive at times. But skimming over the boring parts and getting to the action worked just fine.
I love how this story ended! Made me want to dive right in to the next novel.
Such a fun story. I love the premise and especially this world. And stuff keeps building. I love how the fairy tale elements have been changed and the twists they bring. I even love the characters. I’m most interested in learning about Coltan. And I think the Commander is evil. I think that will be unveiled in the end of the series. Love Gretel. Lots of magic, and it’s cool how they used magic to make the modern work work after they were shut off from it.
I did find a lot of parts dragged, and I found the narrative repetitive at times. But skimming over the boring parts and getting to the action worked just fine.
I love how this story ended! Made me want to dive right in to the next novel.
December 20, 2018
Wow! The effort put into these books is phenomenal! The back story behind "the sleeping" Princess is so very unique and well thought out. All the pieces to the puzzle are starting to fit together and I cant wait! We finally get a peek into Cin's parentage and how special she truly is. Bomb drop when it comes to Colten. They are so close to ending the curse. All the secrets coming to light will leave you flabbergasted. Throw in a seriously wicked and strong mage and you have one hell of an adventure. It seems like Cin is finally trusting her friends and her feelings for Colten more. I do not trust Commander Ford, shes looking might suspect. Major cliffhanger at the end.
December 28, 2018
Wow! This second book in the Circle of the Rose series is spell-binding! I love the characters and forget that this is a retelling of the fairy tales I grew up hearing. Cin is a well-developed character and revealed secrets abound in this story. Great ending! (even though it is a cliffhanger of great magnitude!!) My mind wanders down the numerous paths of how the next book will play out. SO many possibilities!! Patiently, impatiently waiting for the continuation of the story of Cin and her friends.
March 14, 2019
This is the second book in Circle of the Rose Chronicles and it was incredible! S. J. West has created a unique new retelling of Cinderella bringing together a dynamic group of characters with real personalities that the reader can relate too. Cin and the gang are on an adventure to find the Golden Apple which they think can grant one wish. To awake Briar Rose which they hope will free the city. The story captivates your attention right from the beginning full of drama, danger, suspense and emotion. I can’t wait to read book three.
December 27, 2018
Not the Cin d’Rella story you grew up reading!
Book 2 takes up on a roller coast ride of an adventure and for anyone who gets attached to the characters they read about will get a roller coaster ride of emotions from this book. Cin being a Thorn, is on a quest to save her world and finds out it’s bigger than she originally knew and a whole lot more complicated. I loved the second book and I can’t wait for the next!
Book 2 takes up on a roller coast ride of an adventure and for anyone who gets attached to the characters they read about will get a roller coaster ride of emotions from this book. Cin being a Thorn, is on a quest to save her world and finds out it’s bigger than she originally knew and a whole lot more complicated. I loved the second book and I can’t wait for the next!
December 28, 2018
Must read!
Cin and friends are searching for the golden apple, a great evil is unleashed, Gretel learns a life altering truth, is Isabelle's dad sane, how does snow white play into this, and what does Maximus know? And don't worry, if your looking for some romance have no fear, it has that too. So many twists I never saw coming but it's SJ and she can weave an original tale unlike any other. This is the best play on classic fairytales I've ever read!
Cin and friends are searching for the golden apple, a great evil is unleashed, Gretel learns a life altering truth, is Isabelle's dad sane, how does snow white play into this, and what does Maximus know? And don't worry, if your looking for some romance have no fear, it has that too. So many twists I never saw coming but it's SJ and she can weave an original tale unlike any other. This is the best play on classic fairytales I've ever read!
January 3, 2019
I have to admit I enjoyed Book 1 a lot. However, Book 2 kept me on my toes at all times.
The storyline is amazing and lets not forget the strong individuality each of the characters have - I love it. I can't wait to read the next book and see how to story unfolds.
For Y'all out there, looking for a great fairytale with a modern twist and a bit of a cliffhanger - this is the book you've been looking for. Trust me. It's a must-read.
The storyline is amazing and lets not forget the strong individuality each of the characters have - I love it. I can't wait to read the next book and see how to story unfolds.
For Y'all out there, looking for a great fairytale with a modern twist and a bit of a cliffhanger - this is the book you've been looking for. Trust me. It's a must-read.
January 4, 2019
S.J. does another fantastic job on Cin d'Rella and the Golden Apple.
Cin is absolutely fantastic. I was enthralled from the very first page. Definitely kept me on my toes and had to really pay attention, as the story moves quickly! The store gets more in detail about the characters and their lives, provide answers to questions previously asked. Definitely one roller coaster ride for my emotions! I really loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series!!!
Cin is absolutely fantastic. I was enthralled from the very first page. Definitely kept me on my toes and had to really pay attention, as the story moves quickly! The store gets more in detail about the characters and their lives, provide answers to questions previously asked. Definitely one roller coaster ride for my emotions! I really loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series!!!
January 7, 2019
S j. West draws you into a magical world Cin and her friends are on a journey to fly in the golden apple there was definitely some twists and turns that I so didn't expect with one of Cin friends but I won't give it away! Then we have Prince Colton he is such a sweet sweet guy and so good to send I really hope they're able 2 be together I cannot wait for the next book they are so good this series is very hard to put down once you pick it up!
January 15, 2019
Yet again SJ West did not disappoint with book 2 in this series! I found this book to be even more edge of your seat than the first. I love the character of Cin and her friends. This modern day retelling of fairytales is done in a way that makes you appreciate the mythology but also enjoy the fresh new take. My only complaint is that it ended on a major cliffhanger and I cant wait for the next one!
September 24, 2022
It's actually better than the first one. You never know what is coming your way and the author does a good job creating more questions and keeping you wondering in order to learn more. The intertwine of the tales is also very well done.
My only dislike is that the characters are pretty black and white until now (either too good or too evil), which may be in keeping with the fairy tale vibe, but at times seems like not enough. We'll see what happens moving on
My only dislike is that the characters are pretty black and white until now (either too good or too evil), which may be in keeping with the fairy tale vibe, but at times seems like not enough. We'll see what happens moving on
December 27, 2018
Well, well, well..... That was certainly a surprise.....
This book just keeps you on your toes.... pay attention, because things change quickly....
Love Cin and her crew.... we are starting to delve into the lives of these characters, and getting some much needed answers.... and of course more questions.....
Can't wait for the next book.... bring it!!!
This book just keeps you on your toes.... pay attention, because things change quickly....
Love Cin and her crew.... we are starting to delve into the lives of these characters, and getting some much needed answers.... and of course more questions.....
Can't wait for the next book.... bring it!!!
December 28, 2018
Great series
There have been many retellings of this classic but I found this one to be quite unique. The plot was well written and engaging
This is the second book of The Circle of The Rose Chronicles and was such a fun read.
This had the perfect balance of action, adventure, unexpected twits with a hint of romance added in the mix
This book is perfect for all ages
There have been many retellings of this classic but I found this one to be quite unique. The plot was well written and engaging
This is the second book of The Circle of The Rose Chronicles and was such a fun read.
This had the perfect balance of action, adventure, unexpected twits with a hint of romance added in the mix
This book is perfect for all ages
January 3, 2019
What can I say? I love S.J. West’s books! This one has definitely left me wanting more. I found myself saying “just one more chapter and I’ll go to bed” next thing I knew the book was finished and it was 2 in the morning! I just couldn’t put it down! It’s definitely worth reading! I can’t wait for the next one to come out!
January 8, 2019
Loved it!
Cin and her Thorn best friends are at it again, and, thanks to S.J.West, they’ve had quite the ride!
I love all the little details that connect you to the original stories, (the dragons 😍), but I adore the path that S.J. has taken with these characters.
I can’t wait for the next book!
Cin and her Thorn best friends are at it again, and, thanks to S.J.West, they’ve had quite the ride!
I love all the little details that connect you to the original stories, (the dragons 😍), but I adore the path that S.J. has taken with these characters.
I can’t wait for the next book!
January 18, 2019
Continuing the adventure, this book, picks up with our heroine pushing the limit of her understanding of things known and seeking the answers so desperately desired. Will her Prince be the answer and will she succeed? You must pick up your own copy of this one to find out. It is worth the effort and we are left with an unexpected ending too!
February 4, 2019
Loved it! Can’t wait to see what happens next. It’s a twist on what we know about fairy tales. I love her imagination to create a new story line like where Cin can from or who really is Gretal. SJ West is so creative. She did leave me hanging in the end with this one. Counting the days to get the next book.
March 4, 2019
Book 2 is even better!!!
Absolutely loved the story from page 1 to the end. Moves at a great pace with plenty of twists to keep it interesting. Cinn is on the journey of her life to save her kingdom. With her friends, godfather, and the ever gorgeous Colton by her side. There is no way she can go wrong! I am so anticipating book 3. I have questions that need answers...lol
Absolutely loved the story from page 1 to the end. Moves at a great pace with plenty of twists to keep it interesting. Cinn is on the journey of her life to save her kingdom. With her friends, godfather, and the ever gorgeous Colton by her side. There is no way she can go wrong! I am so anticipating book 3. I have questions that need answers...lol
April 20, 2020
Omg
I didn't know how I would feel about a different twist on Cinderella but I loved this book..you will sit on the edge of your seat throughout the book and you will have to read the rest of the series it's a must read you'll even meat other characters that you wouldn't expect to be there
I didn't know how I would feel about a different twist on Cinderella but I loved this book..you will sit on the edge of your seat throughout the book and you will have to read the rest of the series it's a must read you'll even meat other characters that you wouldn't expect to be there
December 27, 2018
Another great story
There are so many twists and names that pop up in this story. You're on the edge to figure out what will happen next. It's a must read. I can't wait for the next book.
There are so many twists and names that pop up in this story. You're on the edge to figure out what will happen next. It's a must read. I can't wait for the next book.
December 28, 2018
Awesome!
I love this series. This book threw out some curveballs and it just keeps you guessing what is going to happen next! I love Cin and the girls and can’t wait to see where their journey goes next!
I love this series. This book threw out some curveballs and it just keeps you guessing what is going to happen next! I love Cin and the girls and can’t wait to see where their journey goes next!
December 29, 2018
Wow
As always S.J. delivers yet another wonderful story. Every time I start one of her books, I can’t seem to stop reading until I have finished it. The continued story of Cin and her friends was a great and exciting adventure and I can’t wait for the next book!
As always S.J. delivers yet another wonderful story. Every time I start one of her books, I can’t seem to stop reading until I have finished it. The continued story of Cin and her friends was a great and exciting adventure and I can’t wait for the next book!
January 3, 2019
Wow! This was such a great book to follow the first one. I really enjoyed reading this one. There were many twists and turns that I did not see coming. Some were very shocking! I cannot wait until the next book comes out. I am definitely left wanting more!!
January 3, 2019
S.J. has created another amazing story. There are lots of twist and turns in this one and this story will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's almost impossible to put the book down. I love this series and I can't wait for the next book.
June 23, 2020
Favorite Quote:
“My gut tells me that this will work, and it’s rarely ever wrong.”
“Really?” he says. His eyes light up as he looks at me. “What does your gut tell you about me?”
I really should have seen that question coming,
“My gut tells me that this will work, and it’s rarely ever wrong.”
“Really?” he says. His eyes light up as he looks at me. “What does your gut tell you about me?”
I really should have seen that question coming,
December 25, 2018
You really know how to end them, this book was as amazing as the last one. I can't wait for the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews