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Langwidere has an obsessive habit—collecting heads. She wears a new one each day, changing them out like she does her ivory dresses. But Langwidere doesn’t have the one thing she truly wants: complete power over the territories in Oz. When Lion—the once cowardly fae—shows up at her doorstep, he offers her an opportunity to achieve her desires. Will he use the courage the Wizard gave him to help her succeed, or will he betray her in the process?
This is a short story prequel to the Faeries of Oz trilogy.
This is a short story prequel to the Faeries of Oz trilogy.
35 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2020
About the author
Candace Robinson
62 books1,114 followersI spend my days consumed by words and hoping to one day find my own DeLorean time machine. My life consists of avoiding migraines, admiring Bonsai trees, watching classic movies, and living with my husband and daughter in Texas—where it can be forty degrees one day and eighty the next!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
September 19, 2020
Lion is a prequel short story to the new series Faeries of Oz, written by Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell. It releases this fall, and I already have the first book, Tin, lined up to read later this month. Consider this a multi-genre experience that focuses on several intriguing aspects of the childhood favorite, Wizard of Oz, that so many of us love. Although I've read the book and seen the movie and the Broadway play, Wicked, I know very little about the other books in the original series. When I did a little digging, I learned lots about it, including how some of the imagination in Duell and Robinson's new series comes from both the original series and their new take on some awesome characters. How fun is it to take it to the next level!
A headless witch wanting to become queen... faeries... our cowardly lion back in action, and the famous and powerful Oz. Wow! This prequel certainly captures your attention. It's gritty -- not for kids! I don't know who to trust anymore. With two new 'witches' besides Glenda the Good, (we lost the supposedly two wicked ones in the house collapse and the death by melting)... how much worse could these two be? Don't Ask! The lion is no longer a furry, lovable creature. He's a grown up man with intense physical NEEDS! Loved the character arc here, and I can't wait to see who's playing who.
So... if you like your fairy tales and you can deal with things being turned upside down, this will be quite the treat for you. I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book when Dorothy comes back and the Tin Man reveals whether he's got a heart of stone or love this time around. Grab this prequel now to see if you will find yourself melding childhood fantasy, sexual awakening, and murderous intent! Oh yeah, there will be some other magical creatures coming too; I guarantee it with this team of writers.
A headless witch wanting to become queen... faeries... our cowardly lion back in action, and the famous and powerful Oz. Wow! This prequel certainly captures your attention. It's gritty -- not for kids! I don't know who to trust anymore. With two new 'witches' besides Glenda the Good, (we lost the supposedly two wicked ones in the house collapse and the death by melting)... how much worse could these two be? Don't Ask! The lion is no longer a furry, lovable creature. He's a grown up man with intense physical NEEDS! Loved the character arc here, and I can't wait to see who's playing who.
So... if you like your fairy tales and you can deal with things being turned upside down, this will be quite the treat for you. I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book when Dorothy comes back and the Tin Man reveals whether he's got a heart of stone or love this time around. Grab this prequel now to see if you will find yourself melding childhood fantasy, sexual awakening, and murderous intent! Oh yeah, there will be some other magical creatures coming too; I guarantee it with this team of writers.
September 1, 2020
And like that, a Lion prequel to Tin became born! Also featuring Langwidere who is a head collector!
January 16, 2021
This is a prequel, but it felt more like I'd been dropped into the middle of the story. Needed way more development and depth.
Acquired via KU.
Acquired via KU.
December 14, 2021
"It's too bad I only wear female heads. Yours would do quite nicely."
This was something else. The relationship was completely bonkers but it kept me well entertained and I couldn't stop. The way this was told was really good and I loved the world it played in. Well, at least what I saw of it. Which wasn't a lot but I can't wait to get back and read the rest. I would have loved to read the actual Wizard of Oz story in this version of Oz.
March 21, 2021
This was a good start to the series if a bit creepily and dark. I actually read Tin before this book and was curious to see why Lion turned out to be so bad in Tin.
August 3, 2020
I was gifted a copy from Amber and Candace the authors, all thoughts are completely my own
Being straight forward here, this is definitely NOT the "beloved" children's classic and man does that make me happy.
This book is definitely dark. It sets the stage that this series is going to be really dark.
Fae, sex, murder, who doesn't love those, am I right?
If you're looking for a quick read, enjoy really dark stories, fae, sexy times (I'm not talking sensual here) or are looking for a different take on the wizard of Oz then you will want to check this out!
Being straight forward here, this is definitely NOT the "beloved" children's classic and man does that make me happy.
This book is definitely dark. It sets the stage that this series is going to be really dark.
Fae, sex, murder, who doesn't love those, am I right?
If you're looking for a quick read, enjoy really dark stories, fae, sexy times (I'm not talking sensual here) or are looking for a different take on the wizard of Oz then you will want to check this out!
October 29, 2021
Lion went by way too freaking quickly. I did like the short little romance too. Even though I kept thinking the witch was sleeping with the actual LION and like not a person named Lion. It did mess with my brain at times but I guess I just need more coffee before I dive into the next book in this series.
September 14, 2020
Lions and tigers and bears…oh my! Changing a well-loved tale that has survived the decades, OH MY! The Land of Oz as you have never imagined it, years after Dorothy left, Oz has become something painfully different, and the Cowardly Lion no longer exists. In his place, a dark fae who plans to use his gift of courage for his own benefit in a game of power and control and deceit.
Okay, I admit it, I love the works of authors Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell, but they had me pretty shook up to discover that, not only are we not in Kansas anymore, by Oz isn’t the sparkling place it used to be. Dark, definitely adult and certainly edgy, LION makes a stellar foundation into a series that explores a dystopian Oz and the weakness of the heroes we once thought we knew so well…go ahead, click your heels (preferably stilettos) three times, this one is magically enthralling!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Candace Robinson! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Faeries of Oz - Prequel
Publication Date : October 13, 2020
Publisher: Candace Robinson & Amber R. Duell
Genre: Fairy Tale Re-telling
Print Length : 28 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Okay, I admit it, I love the works of authors Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell, but they had me pretty shook up to discover that, not only are we not in Kansas anymore, by Oz isn’t the sparkling place it used to be. Dark, definitely adult and certainly edgy, LION makes a stellar foundation into a series that explores a dystopian Oz and the weakness of the heroes we once thought we knew so well…go ahead, click your heels (preferably stilettos) three times, this one is magically enthralling!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Candace Robinson! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Faeries of Oz - Prequel
Publication Date : October 13, 2020
Publisher: Candace Robinson & Amber R. Duell
Genre: Fairy Tale Re-telling
Print Length : 28 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
September 14, 2025
My Initial Thoughts
I had read Tin first and in fact if I had read this first like I should of, it’s the order recommended on the blurb so how I missed that I’ll never know, well I do, I go into all books blind mostly. Anyway these 35 pages definitely help with understanding about Lion and his relationship with Langwidere.
Plot
The is not really much plot as this is just setting the series opening and the relationship between Lion and Langwidere. It would have been nice to have a bit longer of a prequal so you can find out more history on Lion, and ultimately Oz.
Characters
There is very little from character aspect that you can get to know them by. The pages and therefore this prequal set the setting for how and why Tin needs goes in search for Dorathy. It does show that these two together though are absolutely bonkers.
Recommend
If you plan on reading the Faeries Of Oz series, start with this one.
Favourite Quote
“I want to be valued for my service. Use me, my lady. Make yourself a queen and me your knight.”
Favourite Chapter/s
I didn’t have a favourite chapter.
Summed up in one sentence
The introduction to an adventure back to The Emerald City.
Overall Wrap up
This was a very quick read and puts the wheels turning for the start of the series. My only complaint was I wish it was a bit longer, or maybe just added on as the prologue of Tin? I didn’t feel like we learnt that much really only what happened and that Lion needs to always be under someone’s thumb. His still a coward even after bei given bravery from Oz.
Stars & Spice – 3 stars and 2 chilli spices.
Book Information – Lion (Faeries of Oz) by Amber R Duell and Candace Robinson.
Genre – Dark romantasy. Prequel.
Pages – 35 pages.
Tropes –
Unhinged FMC
Would do anything for her MMC.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – The full series is available on kindle unlimited.
Available Formats – Available on kindle and on audiobook.
Publishing Information – Published on 13th October 2020.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from kindle unlimited.
POVs – This is written in dual POV – Lion and Langdewidere.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in first person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – Open ended for the first book in the series.
Series or Standalone – This is the prequel to the Faeries Of Oz series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
I had read Tin first and in fact if I had read this first like I should of, it’s the order recommended on the blurb so how I missed that I’ll never know, well I do, I go into all books blind mostly. Anyway these 35 pages definitely help with understanding about Lion and his relationship with Langwidere.
Plot
The is not really much plot as this is just setting the series opening and the relationship between Lion and Langwidere. It would have been nice to have a bit longer of a prequal so you can find out more history on Lion, and ultimately Oz.
Characters
There is very little from character aspect that you can get to know them by. The pages and therefore this prequal set the setting for how and why Tin needs goes in search for Dorathy. It does show that these two together though are absolutely bonkers.
Recommend
If you plan on reading the Faeries Of Oz series, start with this one.
Favourite Quote
“I want to be valued for my service. Use me, my lady. Make yourself a queen and me your knight.”
Favourite Chapter/s
I didn’t have a favourite chapter.
Summed up in one sentence
The introduction to an adventure back to The Emerald City.
Overall Wrap up
This was a very quick read and puts the wheels turning for the start of the series. My only complaint was I wish it was a bit longer, or maybe just added on as the prologue of Tin? I didn’t feel like we learnt that much really only what happened and that Lion needs to always be under someone’s thumb. His still a coward even after bei given bravery from Oz.
Stars & Spice – 3 stars and 2 chilli spices.
Book Information – Lion (Faeries of Oz) by Amber R Duell and Candace Robinson.
Genre – Dark romantasy. Prequel.
Pages – 35 pages.
Tropes –
Unhinged FMC
Would do anything for her MMC.
Available on Kindle Unlimited – The full series is available on kindle unlimited.
Available Formats – Available on kindle and on audiobook.
Publishing Information – Published on 13th October 2020.
Format in Which I Read – I read this on kindle.
Where my copy come From – My copy came from kindle unlimited.
POVs – This is written in dual POV – Lion and Langdewidere.
Single/Dual/Multiple Timelines – This is written on a single timeline.
1st, 2nd or 3rd person – This is written in first person.
HEA, HFN or Cliff hanger – Open ended for the first book in the series.
Series or Standalone – This is the prequel to the Faeries Of Oz series.
Trigger Warnings – Please check content warnings before reading if necessary and please always remember that your mental health matters.
February 3, 2021
I have a complicated relationship with short prequel stories. In theory, I love them. In practice, I rarely do. This was one of those cases. In theory, this was the perfect read for me – a creepy introduction to the Faeries of Oz series. In reality, it did not work for me – it just wasn’t enough for me.
Don’t get me wrong, the idea behind this one was great. However, I could not connect at all. Was it trying to be creepy or sexy? Was it aiming for a combination of both? Clearly, I’m in the minority for finding it to be neither – I mean, look at all those five-star ratings – but this one did not work for me. I wanted to love it, as I adored the idea behind it, but the story itself just felt awkward.
I’m evidently in the minority with this one, but this prequel did not work for me. It works for most, though, so take my view with a pinch of salt.
Don’t get me wrong, the idea behind this one was great. However, I could not connect at all. Was it trying to be creepy or sexy? Was it aiming for a combination of both? Clearly, I’m in the minority for finding it to be neither – I mean, look at all those five-star ratings – but this one did not work for me. I wanted to love it, as I adored the idea behind it, but the story itself just felt awkward.
I’m evidently in the minority with this one, but this prequel did not work for me. It works for most, though, so take my view with a pinch of salt.
February 6, 2020
Sinister, sexy, and chilling! It will leave you eager to see these despicable characters get their delicious comeuppance—and absolutely breathless to know what happens NEXT!❤️💕
June 2, 2021
Lizard: 1⋆.
Wombat: 1⋆.
Overall: 1⋆.
Wombat: 1⋆.
Overall: 1⋆.
October 25, 2020
I've been wanting to read this prequel ever since I first heard about this series. The Faeries of Oz is a twisted take on the Wizard of Oz and I cannot be more excited! This one features LION and his betrayal of Oz and in a sense, Dorothy as well. He is siding with a witch named Langwidere who collects heads to adorn. I would actually like to know more background information about Lion and Langwidere. These are the not the same characters we all know and love. What has happened since Dorothy left Oz? During this time, Lion has been wanting and waiting for something more.
With Oz losing his mind, Lion has decided to become Langwidere's executioner and lover. I am both disgusted and intrigued. She is cruel, narcissistic, and power-hungry. Lion has dedicated himself to become Langwidere's "knight" and she his queen. I was shocked by the love scenes. While not explicit, they were done very tastefully.
It's incredibly interesting and I can't wait to read TIN which features Dorothy and the Tin Man as the main characters. In the end, I thought this was a great "Halloween" creepy read because Langwidere is HEADLESS. She kills female fae for their heads. The reason why I'm so incredibly excited for TIN this December is because Lion has now set his eyes on obtaining Dorothy's head for Langwidere.
"Lion didn’t want power for himself—that was too much responsibility—he simply wanted to be close to power. To be needed and important now that he had the courage to become someone of note. He only hoped it would be worth it."
With Oz losing his mind, Lion has decided to become Langwidere's executioner and lover. I am both disgusted and intrigued. She is cruel, narcissistic, and power-hungry. Lion has dedicated himself to become Langwidere's "knight" and she his queen. I was shocked by the love scenes. While not explicit, they were done very tastefully.
"She thought about her original head, the one she’d burned to ash once she’d collected her first prize to replace the old. The kill had come from a fae before the female was to be married, already dressed in a white gown."
It's incredibly interesting and I can't wait to read TIN which features Dorothy and the Tin Man as the main characters. In the end, I thought this was a great "Halloween" creepy read because Langwidere is HEADLESS. She kills female fae for their heads. The reason why I'm so incredibly excited for TIN this December is because Lion has now set his eyes on obtaining Dorothy's head for Langwidere.
October 8, 2020
*** Note : I received e-copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to author. ***
Lion was a prequel novella, dark fantasy set in darker times of Oz that is not sparkling land anymore. It revolved around the headless witch and the cowardly Lion who is not coward anymore. It was about game of power, control, deceit, and manipulations.
In this short 28 pages novella author packed lot of curiosity and darkness. We get the idea of what has become of land of Oz after Dorothy left back to Kansas. Characters were interesting, mysterious, and unreliable.
World was amazing. I have read only first book Oz ages ago so I cannot say much how the original world looked like or compare but this one was dark, gory, gritty and edgy. It’s definitely not for kids. The end was perfect.
read full review on my blog by following this link - https://booksteacupnreviews.com/2020/...
Lion was a prequel novella, dark fantasy set in darker times of Oz that is not sparkling land anymore. It revolved around the headless witch and the cowardly Lion who is not coward anymore. It was about game of power, control, deceit, and manipulations.
In this short 28 pages novella author packed lot of curiosity and darkness. We get the idea of what has become of land of Oz after Dorothy left back to Kansas. Characters were interesting, mysterious, and unreliable.
World was amazing. I have read only first book Oz ages ago so I cannot say much how the original world looked like or compare but this one was dark, gory, gritty and edgy. It’s definitely not for kids. The end was perfect.
read full review on my blog by following this link - https://booksteacupnreviews.com/2020/...
March 19, 2021
Lion by Candace Robinson and Amber R. Duell Review
Synopsis:
Langwidere has an obsessive habit—collecting heads. She wears a new one each day, changing them out like she does her ivory dresses. But Landwidere doesn’t have the one thing she truly wants: complete power over the territories in Oz. When Lion—the once cowardly fae—shows up at her doorstep, he offers her an opportunity to achieve her desires. Will he use the courage the Wizard gave him to help her succeed, or will he betray her in the process?
‘Langwidere cherished her heads more than anything. Heads. Heads. Heads. She loved them blonde, loved them even more brunette, loved them red, loved them with perky noses, rosebud lips, arched eyebrows.’
It was interesting learning about the backstory and finding things out that click into the other books.
4.5/5 Stars!
Synopsis:
Langwidere has an obsessive habit—collecting heads. She wears a new one each day, changing them out like she does her ivory dresses. But Landwidere doesn’t have the one thing she truly wants: complete power over the territories in Oz. When Lion—the once cowardly fae—shows up at her doorstep, he offers her an opportunity to achieve her desires. Will he use the courage the Wizard gave him to help her succeed, or will he betray her in the process?
‘Langwidere cherished her heads more than anything. Heads. Heads. Heads. She loved them blonde, loved them even more brunette, loved them red, loved them with perky noses, rosebud lips, arched eyebrows.’
It was interesting learning about the backstory and finding things out that click into the other books.
4.5/5 Stars!
December 29, 2020
Don't lose your head over LION, the prequel to the Faeries of Oz series! Lion, our gentle friend from the original Oz, is now the opposite of gentle and more on a wild-beast. So after meeting Langwidere, Lion sees an opportunity to make some dough if he has the courage to collect a head or two or five? The detail is, Langwidere is a headhunter, as in human heads, and she loves to wear them! *Cringe* Will Lion lose his head over Langwidere? Who knows, but some heads will roll!
May 28, 2024
Not sure how to rate this one. It was ok, but super short. First book I've read in the series so maybe this will make more sense after I read one of the full-length novels.
September 2, 2021
I was really hoping to enjoy the start of this series, but it was too explicit for me.
January 3, 2021
Description:
Langwidere has an obsessive habit—collecting heads. She wears a new one each day, changing them out like she does her ivory dresses. But Landwidere doesn’t have the one thing she truly wants: complete power over the territories in Oz. When Lion—the once cowardly fae—shows up at her doorstep, he offers her an opportunity to achieve her desires. Will he use the courage the Wizard gave him to help her succeed, or will he betray her in the process?
My Thoughts:
This was a great intro this version of oz. It gives us a little sneak peek into the future of the series. It was dark and creepy and really had me waning to know more about this world. Amber R. Duell and Candace Robinson have taken oz and turned it upside down. They made it dark and the characters oh so sexy. I'm now very intrigued to see what happens in the following books. :)
Stars: ★★★★
Langwidere has an obsessive habit—collecting heads. She wears a new one each day, changing them out like she does her ivory dresses. But Landwidere doesn’t have the one thing she truly wants: complete power over the territories in Oz. When Lion—the once cowardly fae—shows up at her doorstep, he offers her an opportunity to achieve her desires. Will he use the courage the Wizard gave him to help her succeed, or will he betray her in the process?
My Thoughts:
This was a great intro this version of oz. It gives us a little sneak peek into the future of the series. It was dark and creepy and really had me waning to know more about this world. Amber R. Duell and Candace Robinson have taken oz and turned it upside down. They made it dark and the characters oh so sexy. I'm now very intrigued to see what happens in the following books. :)
Stars: ★★★★
March 4, 2022
This book was everything I wanted and more! I loved how short it was and it does this fantastic job at making me want to continue on with the series—which is what every short story prequel should do for a series!
The only thing is, I wish I had MORE Lion! I feel like that the story started off with being about Lion’s decision to help the Wizard, but it ended up being more about Langwidere’s desire to take back her land (and then some)- which is fine, I love her, but I also REALLY really REALLY love Lion and wanted to experience more of his internal conflict.
Can’t wait to read the next in the series!!
The only thing is, I wish I had MORE Lion! I feel like that the story started off with being about Lion’s decision to help the Wizard, but it ended up being more about Langwidere’s desire to take back her land (and then some)- which is fine, I love her, but I also REALLY really REALLY love Lion and wanted to experience more of his internal conflict.
Can’t wait to read the next in the series!!
October 7, 2025
I absolutely love, love, LOVE this retelling of Oz, and what happened to it once Dorothy went back to Kansas. Lion has his courage, but his heart belongs to another; one with an obsession for pretty fae heads. I quickly devoured this prequel, and jumping straight into Tin.
For lovers of twisted fairytale retellings, grab this today!
For lovers of twisted fairytale retellings, grab this today!
September 3, 2020
This prequel to Tin was fabulous. It drew me in from the first page. I love this twisted take on OZ. It is a decidedly more adult take on the characters from our childhood. I can't wait to read Tin and see what happens next.
September 28, 2020
I received and ARC from the author and really enjoyed this novella. It was a short, quick read, that really set the scenes for TIN. A truly unique take on OZ that’s dark and magical and delightfully twisted.
April 14, 2021
Intriguing
This is definitely a prequel that leaves you wanting more. Much like an appetizer. There’s really no beginning, middle, and end. It’s more like introductions. I’m intrigued by the world and the writing is good. Looking forward to Tin.
This is definitely a prequel that leaves you wanting more. Much like an appetizer. There’s really no beginning, middle, and end. It’s more like introductions. I’m intrigued by the world and the writing is good. Looking forward to Tin.
September 24, 2023
This is a very short prequel to the Faeries of Oz series. Not a lot actually happens, and it's not essential reading. It was okay.
September 4, 2021
Naughty!!
I did not expect that! Fae wizard of oz. Explicit sex. Heads and tails and everything in between. Crazy but good.
I did not expect that! Fae wizard of oz. Explicit sex. Heads and tails and everything in between. Crazy but good.
November 1, 2021
This was fine. A short story to start a series. Definitely did get me interested in starting book one until I read some of the reviews for book one and how Dorothy is supposed to be from the 1920s? ugh that isn't gonna work for me with the vibe of this one. oof
August 4, 2020
Ooh this prequel has me so excited to read book one of the Faeries of Oz trilogy. I love this idea of what Oz is like after Dorthy returns home. It is dark, and I cannot get enough. Langwidere is delightfully evil, and I can't wait to see what she does next.
***I voluntarily read a complimentary ARC of this book.***
***I voluntarily read a complimentary ARC of this book.***
October 14, 2020
I want to start off by saying that I received this e arc copy of this book from the author. In return for my honest thoughts and my review. Before I get into my review I want to share that The Wizard of Oz is a very special story to me. I got my first copy when I was 10 years old. And I haven’t read a retelling of it at all. But when I got this copy I knew I had to read my first retelling. This retelling is something else. These authors did amazing job. And this is only the prequel. What a way to get someone into reading. I cant wait to read the rest of these books in this trilogy. I highly recommend this book. This books comes out October 13, 2020.
About book:
The lion is the only left in Oz after Dorothy has left and killed the wicked witches. The lion is set to help the Wizard. And he makes a deal with the woman who charges heads. Amazing story highly recommend this book. This is the adult version of The Wizard of Oz.
About book:
The lion is the only left in Oz after Dorothy has left and killed the wicked witches. The lion is set to help the Wizard. And he makes a deal with the woman who charges heads. Amazing story highly recommend this book. This is the adult version of The Wizard of Oz.
July 22, 2020
It’s funny - my recollection of Oz is kid’s stuff. This is totally not kid���s stuff, and I mean that in a good way! It’s fast paced and enthralling and makes you want to dive into more. I loved the dynamic between Langwediere and Lion & the foreshadowing of what’s to come! The world building was totally on point
Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews