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Fairytales of Folkshore #7
Dreamer of Briarfell
Sleeping Beauty meets Robin Hood!
A CURSED PRINCESS. A LEGENDARY OUTLAW. A LITERAL DEADLINE.
Her soul will be lost forever, unless she wins the love of the noblest of men.
Cursed in her cradle by a vengeful fairy queen, Princess Fairuza of Arbore thought her fate was secure in the hands of her betrothed — until he chose another as his bride.
After the last attempt to find another prince to save her fails, Fairuza’s world fades to black, and she awakens in a castle, unseen and unheard by all—then a thief breaks in, and sees her.
But Robin Hood is no prince charming, and he’s leaving for Faerie, to save Maid Marian from the Wild Hunt. Seizing her last chance to find royals who can break her curse, she joins him and his Merry Men.
Once in Faerie, the Summer King puts them through deadly trials, in exchange for his hand and help. But as they struggle to survive, Fairuza begins to fade. The longer her soul remains detached from her body, the sooner their tie will be severed.
As her time runs out, she finds herself falling in love with Robin, despite knowing that this would doom her forever…
This is a standalone, full-length novel at over 85K words.
Fairytales of Folkshore is a series of interconnected fairytale retellings. This book can be read as a standalone, but for the complete experience they should be read in order.
The series continues with MERMAID OF TRITONIA.
But first comes THE SNOW PRINCESS, a Snow White novella.
A CURSED PRINCESS. A LEGENDARY OUTLAW. A LITERAL DEADLINE.
Her soul will be lost forever, unless she wins the love of the noblest of men.
Cursed in her cradle by a vengeful fairy queen, Princess Fairuza of Arbore thought her fate was secure in the hands of her betrothed — until he chose another as his bride.
After the last attempt to find another prince to save her fails, Fairuza’s world fades to black, and she awakens in a castle, unseen and unheard by all—then a thief breaks in, and sees her.
But Robin Hood is no prince charming, and he’s leaving for Faerie, to save Maid Marian from the Wild Hunt. Seizing her last chance to find royals who can break her curse, she joins him and his Merry Men.
Once in Faerie, the Summer King puts them through deadly trials, in exchange for his hand and help. But as they struggle to survive, Fairuza begins to fade. The longer her soul remains detached from her body, the sooner their tie will be severed.
As her time runs out, she finds herself falling in love with Robin, despite knowing that this would doom her forever…
This is a standalone, full-length novel at over 85K words.
Fairytales of Folkshore is a series of interconnected fairytale retellings. This book can be read as a standalone, but for the complete experience they should be read in order.
The series continues with MERMAID OF TRITONIA.
But first comes THE SNOW PRINCESS, a Snow White novella.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2020
91 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Tempest
14 books309 followersAs the spawn of Trekkie comic book nerds, the importance of storytelling is an integral part of my being. Spinning tales since I learned to speak, now my books can take others through my adventures and necessary escapism.
I live with one foot in Florida with my family and two spoiled cats, and the other firmly lodged in fantasy.
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I live with one foot in Florida with my family and two spoiled cats, and the other firmly lodged in fantasy.
Follow me on Bookbub
Join my VIP mailing list by clicking HERE!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
January 1, 2021
Best one so far and Sleeping Beauty is not my favorite fairytale.
So Fairuza from books 1-3 is back as the MC. We see the challenge she faces with her curse for like 3 chapters. The rest of it is fairy world adventures and cute little fairy couples (so precious!). Plus you add in Robin Hood and Marian.
This was definitely in my top 3 for this series. I loved the characters. It was such a cool twist on the original and so much foreshadowing, I simply cannot wait!
So Fairuza from books 1-3 is back as the MC. We see the challenge she faces with her curse for like 3 chapters. The rest of it is fairy world adventures and cute little fairy couples (so precious!). Plus you add in Robin Hood and Marian.
This was definitely in my top 3 for this series. I loved the characters. It was such a cool twist on the original and so much foreshadowing, I simply cannot wait!
January 14, 2021
Spoilers from the previous books, read at your own risk
I never liked Sleeping Beauty as a child, as I found the Disney version boring and the princess to be a cardboard cutout, and of course later in life I found out about the rape in the original version and how much people take issue with various aspects of the ending. So while I've explored a lot of fairytale retellings over the last couple years, I've never been drawn to the Sleeping Beauty ones unless they were part of a series I already liked, and I can only recall reading Once Upon a Dream by Liz Braswell.
That one turned out to be my least favorite in the Twisted Tales series so far, but my appreciation for Lucy Tempest and dedication to the Folkshore series led me right to this latest installment, another Sleeping Beauty retelling.
Both the Twisted Tales one and this one deal with the princess taking issue with their lack of freedom in their lives as they pass through a dream state after the curse kicks in, but Tempest takes those sentiments so much farther, in ways I started to see in Braswell's book, but that were not fully fleshed out.
It is clear that from the day Fairuza returned from Cahraman, she's been questioning her role as a princess and the carefully shaped life that her parents have cut out for her, as well as the magic surrounding her world. This is exemplified further as she explores and questions the way her brother Leander married Bonnie, a half-fairy.
Here, the sleeping beauty is not a cardboard cutout but a real person with full ideas and dreams of her own, and she spends most of the novel coming to terms with who she has been raised to be, who she is, and who she wants to be. She reconciles her mistakes from the past and learns that she is more than who she was before.
Along with Princess of Midnight, I think I connected with Dreamer of Briarfell the most because I love to see change and growth in characters who are still finding who they are. I've been on a journey of self discovery since I was diagnosed with cancer when I was ten, and the questions of who I am, who appreciates me, and for what reasons, are often things I think about. That said, both Ella and Fairuza have been through this, and they help me look at myself through twists on characters I've grown up with.
I also feel like this was the most interconnected book of the series yet, and I loved the cameos and flashbacks from the other women's stories, including what comes next for Keenan and Snezhana, as well as Ariane and Cora. I was excited to see their appearances in this story, and I am looking forward to their own features. I just need to wait two months before the next book is out!
I never liked Sleeping Beauty as a child, as I found the Disney version boring and the princess to be a cardboard cutout, and of course later in life I found out about the rape in the original version and how much people take issue with various aspects of the ending. So while I've explored a lot of fairytale retellings over the last couple years, I've never been drawn to the Sleeping Beauty ones unless they were part of a series I already liked, and I can only recall reading Once Upon a Dream by Liz Braswell.
That one turned out to be my least favorite in the Twisted Tales series so far, but my appreciation for Lucy Tempest and dedication to the Folkshore series led me right to this latest installment, another Sleeping Beauty retelling.
Both the Twisted Tales one and this one deal with the princess taking issue with their lack of freedom in their lives as they pass through a dream state after the curse kicks in, but Tempest takes those sentiments so much farther, in ways I started to see in Braswell's book, but that were not fully fleshed out.
It is clear that from the day Fairuza returned from Cahraman, she's been questioning her role as a princess and the carefully shaped life that her parents have cut out for her, as well as the magic surrounding her world. This is exemplified further as she explores and questions the way her brother Leander married Bonnie, a half-fairy.
Here, the sleeping beauty is not a cardboard cutout but a real person with full ideas and dreams of her own, and she spends most of the novel coming to terms with who she has been raised to be, who she is, and who she wants to be. She reconciles her mistakes from the past and learns that she is more than who she was before.
Along with Princess of Midnight, I think I connected with Dreamer of Briarfell the most because I love to see change and growth in characters who are still finding who they are. I've been on a journey of self discovery since I was diagnosed with cancer when I was ten, and the questions of who I am, who appreciates me, and for what reasons, are often things I think about. That said, both Ella and Fairuza have been through this, and they help me look at myself through twists on characters I've grown up with.
I also feel like this was the most interconnected book of the series yet, and I loved the cameos and flashbacks from the other women's stories, including what comes next for Keenan and Snezhana, as well as Ariane and Cora. I was excited to see their appearances in this story, and I am looking forward to their own features. I just need to wait two months before the next book is out!
September 18, 2020
"Makes you question what was fate, and what was fairies."
When I didn't think I could get more impressed or in love with this series, Lucy Tempest goes and absolutely knocks it out of the park. If you've been following my reviews for a while, you'll know that Fairytales of Folkshore have been a consistent 5 star series for me, and that the way that the stories are interwoven and entangled bring such joy that it's easy to get lost in this world.
Brief spoilers for previous books can be found below
Dreamer of Briarfell, the seventh installation, did not disappoint and in fact surpassed all of my expectations. Fairuza was not introduced as a likeable character during Ada's story. This stood to reason as they were both vying for the hand of the Prince, so rivalry is to be expected and if we're seeing it from Ada's side, the opponent won't be shown in the greatest light. The further we delve into Ada's trilogy, the more we see her as a morally grey character who, whilst her main concern is herself, proves herself to not be entirely selfish or 'villainistic'.
"We do this together, Fairuza - or not at all!
Fairuza is our Sleeping Beauty in this retelling, and as we all know how the disney version goes, I was incredibly curious as to who our Prince Phillip would be and who Fairuza would walk with Once Upon A Dream - and let me tell you that when I found out who it was I was absolutely SHOCKED. I, if I'm being honest, wasn't exactly sure how Lucy was going to pull this off as our 'Prince Phillip' had his own Maid prior to this retelling and I didn't know how it would work. All of my concerns were for naught as it worked perfectly.
I don't want to go into too much of what happened within the book, so as to not spoil anything, so I will just talk about what I loved about this book.
The way that Fairuza is represented and the twist on the sleep until she is awakened by True Love's Kiss curse was beautiful. The fact that Fairuza would grow to be one of my favourite characters within this series has blown my mind and was not something I was expecting, she has such strength and courage within her that was just waiting to be brought to the surface. The way that the relationships were able to be developed, through the twist, was absolutely perfect and not something I would have thought of.
"I've had such a grey view of the world for so long, I kept hoping someone would come and paint over it for me. Any color would have done, really. But with your opinions, and the hope they give me, you're painting it every bright color I've forgotten exists."
One of the things that I really enjoy about these series are the allusions to future retellings and the insight into other characters lives, so you get a feeling for where the future books may be heading. There is a lot of foresight within these books and it is wonderful to see guesses come true in each new edition. The budding relationships between other characters within the stories is also lovely to see, it's like we have several mini storylines interwoven throughout the main one, with no conclusion left untouched.
I have really enjoyed seeing Lucy grow as an author and bring her stories to life in such a humourous, heartfelt and beautiful way. I eagerly await her further works and will immediately preorder them as they become available.
August 13, 2020
“I’ve had such a grey view of the world for so long, I kept hoping someone could come and paint over it for me. Any color would have done, really. But with your opinions, and the hope they gave me, you’re painting it every bright color I’ve forgotten exists.”
I was so excited for Dreamer of Briarfell! I have been eagerly waiting for it ever since I read Beasts and Beauty of Rosemead. Fairuza totally needed her own book and I loved her redemptive arc! Dreamer of Brairfell is the 7th book in Lucy Tempest’s Folkshore series.
Fairuza was running out of time and her search for the noblest man was not going well. She never expected the turn her curse would take or the adventure she would go on because of it. Finding out that falling into a deep sleep meant waking up in a castle, unseen and unheard by all except for a thief. She finds herself working against the clock to try and stop her curse, she never thought that she would have the help of a thief, Robin Hood.
I really wanted to read about Fairuza and see her grow in her own book. She was such a fun character. She really grew from the spoiled girl she was in Ada’s book, to a person who cared and considered others. Fairuza was funny and this adventure really changed her. It was so cool to see her beyond the title and tiraas, she was smart, learned, and she loved music.
I loved Robin! Although he was a thief I still found myself cheering for him. He was truly a noble man, he cared for those around them and he risked his life to help others. But he was also a complicated character, he had seen the world as gray for quite a while. It was so interesting to see Fairuza change his view on life.
This adventure had me on the edge of my seat. When they made it to the King of Spring, I got so worried. However, things had a way of working out. But oh my goodness, there were so many points where I wondered how Fairuza was ever going to work through her curse. It was so fun to see them travel through the fairy realm again.
I have to say, I loved the side characters! It was so funny and I loved the interactions between all of the characters. Robin and Fairuza made me laugh. It was so cool to have characters from other books make appearances! It was so cool to see how Ms. Tempest managed to reveal a new tale while still staying true to the original fairy tales of Sleeping Beauty and Robin Hood.
Dreamer of Brairfell was a great addition to the series. I am so excited for the other books, I love how Ms. Tempest sets up the scene for the books to come. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you love fairytale books!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion
I was so excited for Dreamer of Briarfell! I have been eagerly waiting for it ever since I read Beasts and Beauty of Rosemead. Fairuza totally needed her own book and I loved her redemptive arc! Dreamer of Brairfell is the 7th book in Lucy Tempest’s Folkshore series.
Fairuza was running out of time and her search for the noblest man was not going well. She never expected the turn her curse would take or the adventure she would go on because of it. Finding out that falling into a deep sleep meant waking up in a castle, unseen and unheard by all except for a thief. She finds herself working against the clock to try and stop her curse, she never thought that she would have the help of a thief, Robin Hood.
I really wanted to read about Fairuza and see her grow in her own book. She was such a fun character. She really grew from the spoiled girl she was in Ada’s book, to a person who cared and considered others. Fairuza was funny and this adventure really changed her. It was so cool to see her beyond the title and tiraas, she was smart, learned, and she loved music.
I loved Robin! Although he was a thief I still found myself cheering for him. He was truly a noble man, he cared for those around them and he risked his life to help others. But he was also a complicated character, he had seen the world as gray for quite a while. It was so interesting to see Fairuza change his view on life.
This adventure had me on the edge of my seat. When they made it to the King of Spring, I got so worried. However, things had a way of working out. But oh my goodness, there were so many points where I wondered how Fairuza was ever going to work through her curse. It was so fun to see them travel through the fairy realm again.
I have to say, I loved the side characters! It was so funny and I loved the interactions between all of the characters. Robin and Fairuza made me laugh. It was so cool to have characters from other books make appearances! It was so cool to see how Ms. Tempest managed to reveal a new tale while still staying true to the original fairy tales of Sleeping Beauty and Robin Hood.
Dreamer of Brairfell was a great addition to the series. I am so excited for the other books, I love how Ms. Tempest sets up the scene for the books to come. I would definitely recommend this book, especially if you love fairytale books!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion
September 8, 2020
Another amazing fairytale inspired fantasy book, A Dreamer of Briarfell, finally brings Fairuza’s story! From learning about her through Ada’s books, then meeting Leander and learning about their family in Bonnie’s book, I was already completely invested in her and so ready to read her book. It was just as good as I hoped!
Fairuza was a complex and so interesting. I felt so bad for her,. Her whole life was spent with the curse hanging over her, and her hope had been destroyed. When she seeks other solutions, she finds herself in between life and death. She is unseen and unheard, feeling just as alone and lost. She has spent her entire life preparing to be a queen, a wife of a king and the mother of royalty. Her world is shook and she is shaken.It was so cool to finally see her perspective. She wasn’t really spoiled or even especially cold. But she was very trained in being a proper princess, in being refined, elegant, and regal. Yet, she did not really feel comfortable or herself in that role. She had to discover what she really believed and what she really wanted out of her life.
I loved Robin! He was so smart and honorable, he knew what was right and he really wanted to help people. I love how he and Fairuza connected. They had different perspectives, but they understood each other. Even from their first meeting, they connected. Being together helped both of them grow, they balanced each other. His friends were so fun too! I always love the side characters, all unique themselves! I was so glad that John and Will had their own little stories.It was really cool to see a lot of the other characters again!
This was such an interesting twist on Sleeping Beauty. I have read a few retellings, but nothing quite like this. There were so many places of surprise while still carrying so much of the original inspiration.I also loved the interconnection of the stories. There is just something about the depth of knowledge of and investment in the world and characters.This was an amazing addition to the Folkshore Fairytales!
Fairuza was a complex and so interesting. I felt so bad for her,. Her whole life was spent with the curse hanging over her, and her hope had been destroyed. When she seeks other solutions, she finds herself in between life and death. She is unseen and unheard, feeling just as alone and lost. She has spent her entire life preparing to be a queen, a wife of a king and the mother of royalty. Her world is shook and she is shaken.It was so cool to finally see her perspective. She wasn’t really spoiled or even especially cold. But she was very trained in being a proper princess, in being refined, elegant, and regal. Yet, she did not really feel comfortable or herself in that role. She had to discover what she really believed and what she really wanted out of her life.
I loved Robin! He was so smart and honorable, he knew what was right and he really wanted to help people. I love how he and Fairuza connected. They had different perspectives, but they understood each other. Even from their first meeting, they connected. Being together helped both of them grow, they balanced each other. His friends were so fun too! I always love the side characters, all unique themselves! I was so glad that John and Will had their own little stories.It was really cool to see a lot of the other characters again!
This was such an interesting twist on Sleeping Beauty. I have read a few retellings, but nothing quite like this. There were so many places of surprise while still carrying so much of the original inspiration.I also loved the interconnection of the stories. There is just something about the depth of knowledge of and investment in the world and characters.This was an amazing addition to the Folkshore Fairytales!
September 19, 2020
Content Review:
Language, romance, and violence is all clean.
Since meeting Princess Fairuza in the first book, I have had a love-hate relationship with her character. (Okay, well, it was mostly hate.) But Dreamer of Briarfell delivered what I love most in a book. Say it with me, people: C-H-A-R-A-C-T-E-R D-E-V-E-L-O-P-M-E-N-T! Woo!
When her curse comes smashing down on Fairuza, she is left in an in-between state, her mind left awake while her body sleeps on. Determined to survive, she will face an internal battle within herself as she goes on a quest through Faerie that will make her question what she had always been told to be. Joining her are her faithful handmaidens and an intriguing hooded outlaw and his Merry Men. I loved seeing more of Faerie, but mostly I loved seeing glimpses into the world of Greek/Roman mythology that Tempest fans will get to enjoy! (I won't share spoilers, but GUYS I AM SO READY FOR THE MYTHS) . Share this book with all your friends! Five stars!!
Recommended for fans of K.M. Shea and Brittany Fichter
Language, romance, and violence is all clean.
Since meeting Princess Fairuza in the first book, I have had a love-hate relationship with her character. (Okay, well, it was mostly hate.) But Dreamer of Briarfell delivered what I love most in a book. Say it with me, people: C-H-A-R-A-C-T-E-R D-E-V-E-L-O-P-M-E-N-T! Woo!
When her curse comes smashing down on Fairuza, she is left in an in-between state, her mind left awake while her body sleeps on. Determined to survive, she will face an internal battle within herself as she goes on a quest through Faerie that will make her question what she had always been told to be. Joining her are her faithful handmaidens and an intriguing hooded outlaw and his Merry Men. I loved seeing more of Faerie, but mostly I loved seeing glimpses into the world of Greek/Roman mythology that Tempest fans will get to enjoy! (I won't share spoilers, but GUYS I AM SO READY FOR THE MYTHS) . Share this book with all your friends! Five stars!!
Recommended for fans of K.M. Shea and Brittany Fichter
January 11, 2021
Loved it. A wonderful continuation of the series. And I really really want to hear Cora’s story!
August 18, 2020
Can we just for one second talk about how good her writing is? How incredibly good Tempest is at creating this world with so many small details that just brings her stories to this awesome level!
I've been looking forward to this book since the first one. And it does not disappoint! I fully mean that Lucy Tempest really have found her calling writing fairytale retellings. Settle down with a good cup of tea and enjoy!
I've been looking forward to this book since the first one. And it does not disappoint! I fully mean that Lucy Tempest really have found her calling writing fairytale retellings. Settle down with a good cup of tea and enjoy!
August 21, 2020
Ever since meeting Fairuza in the first three books of this series, I've been eagerly awaiting this story. Fairuza starts on this series just a spoiled, perfect princess, and it was aching to read her thoughts and feelings.
This book handles the Sleeping Beauty part in an interesting fashion. It is always difficult to build a romance while one of the main characters is asleep. I won't give away how this story manages it, but it was a fun version.
Fairuza's love interest is hilarious and fun. I've never seen Robin Hood paired with Sleeping Beauty before, and it made this story take a few interesting twists and turns not usually seen in a Sleeping Beauty retelling.
Definitely a fun addition to this series, and I can't wait for the next few books!
This book handles the Sleeping Beauty part in an interesting fashion. It is always difficult to build a romance while one of the main characters is asleep. I won't give away how this story manages it, but it was a fun version.
Fairuza's love interest is hilarious and fun. I've never seen Robin Hood paired with Sleeping Beauty before, and it made this story take a few interesting twists and turns not usually seen in a Sleeping Beauty retelling.
Definitely a fun addition to this series, and I can't wait for the next few books!
January 27, 2023
Love this series.
Lucy Tempest has given us another beautiful vivid story with Dreamer. From the moment I picked up her 1st book in the series I couldn't get enough and eagerly await her next books. From gorgeous covers to characters you genuinely feel for she doesn't disappoint. This story pulls you in making it hard to put down.
Lucy Tempest has given us another beautiful vivid story with Dreamer. From the moment I picked up her 1st book in the series I couldn't get enough and eagerly await her next books. From gorgeous covers to characters you genuinely feel for she doesn't disappoint. This story pulls you in making it hard to put down.
August 16, 2020
Honesty the best thing to come out of 2020 so far.
This book is absolutely amazing! Ever since we met, and started to get to know Fairuza in the first couple of books I could not wait for this book. I was sucked in from the very beginning and continued to be enthralled throughout the book. Lucy does such an amazing job developing awesome, relatable characters that you can't help but want them to succeed in their quests! This combination of the Sleeping Beauty and Robin Hood fairytales was absolutely flawless.
This is one of my favorite series of books I've ever read, and Lucy Tempest continues to wow and amaze me with each and every book. I am so happy with this book and all its predecessors and although this one can be read as a standalone I absolutely recommend reading the whole series!
This book is absolutely amazing! Ever since we met, and started to get to know Fairuza in the first couple of books I could not wait for this book. I was sucked in from the very beginning and continued to be enthralled throughout the book. Lucy does such an amazing job developing awesome, relatable characters that you can't help but want them to succeed in their quests! This combination of the Sleeping Beauty and Robin Hood fairytales was absolutely flawless.
This is one of my favorite series of books I've ever read, and Lucy Tempest continues to wow and amaze me with each and every book. I am so happy with this book and all its predecessors and although this one can be read as a standalone I absolutely recommend reading the whole series!
August 16, 2020
Sleeping Beauty plus Robin Hood equals a fun roller coaster ride
This was a delightful take on Sleeping Beauty with fun Robin Hood elements added in. I liked the way the sleeping portion was handled to keep her involved in the story. The progression was like a roller coaster—each time the conclusion seemed to be in sight a new twist would come out of the blue. Frequent references to other books in the world were fun since I'd read them, but a new reader would probably be happier reading them first. Overall another enjoyable fairytale retelling/mashup.
This was a delightful take on Sleeping Beauty with fun Robin Hood elements added in. I liked the way the sleeping portion was handled to keep her involved in the story. The progression was like a roller coaster—each time the conclusion seemed to be in sight a new twist would come out of the blue. Frequent references to other books in the world were fun since I'd read them, but a new reader would probably be happier reading them first. Overall another enjoyable fairytale retelling/mashup.
August 14, 2020
I absolutely love it when an author takes a previously unlovable character and has you rooting for them before the end. Lucy Tempest did so well with Fairuza. That stuck up, shallow-looking gal has a delightful redemption arc and I flew through the book, desperate to see how her legitimate, life-threatening problem could possibly be solved satisfactorily.
The twist of adding Robin Hood to Sleeping Beauty was inspired. Absolutely fabulous story and conclusion. I can't wait for the next book to be written.
For those who care, I did receive a complimentary ARC; all opinions are my own and freely given.
The twist of adding Robin Hood to Sleeping Beauty was inspired. Absolutely fabulous story and conclusion. I can't wait for the next book to be written.
For those who care, I did receive a complimentary ARC; all opinions are my own and freely given.
August 15, 2020
Interconnecting awesomeness
I love how Lucy Tempest gives subtle nods to the Disney versions of these fairy tales while making her own versions a thousand times better. I also enjoy how interwoven her stories are. After reading this book I feel like I need to read back through the rest of the stories with added perspective. Knowing that there are hints of stories to come sprinkled throughout this book makes me anxious to read them as well. I can't wait to see what story she weaves through this tapestry next
I love how Lucy Tempest gives subtle nods to the Disney versions of these fairy tales while making her own versions a thousand times better. I also enjoy how interwoven her stories are. After reading this book I feel like I need to read back through the rest of the stories with added perspective. Knowing that there are hints of stories to come sprinkled throughout this book makes me anxious to read them as well. I can't wait to see what story she weaves through this tapestry next
September 13, 2020
This was my favorite in the series so far. For me this was more than just a love story and I could draw similarities to our current world and state of affairs. The first in questioning if the end justifies the means...this is definitely at the heart of current affairs. Secondly on the high demand for progress in our nation amongst the younger generations. "I'm living-excuse me, half-living proof than long-established ideals and systems don't work as they once did, and that relying on those who are out of touch can cause more harm than any good they maintain. In short, my father needs new blood in his government." Lastly, as one half of a mixed marriage, I love this world for destroying walls and building bridges between the fey and humans. My own "half-breeds" are the most beautiful blessings I could ask for. I believe their beauty is the manifestation of a love that breaks barriers. I look forward to all the remaining stories coming from Lucy Tempest.
August 14, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Here goes!
I loved jumping back into this world! It was so neat to connect to my friends again! I had wanted to see about Robin and Will since I first met them. It was also neat to watch Fairuza's character develop as she discovered more about how empathy is not a limited resource, nor does it make one weak. I love this whole series, and this newest installment did not disappoint!
I loved jumping back into this world! It was so neat to connect to my friends again! I had wanted to see about Robin and Will since I first met them. It was also neat to watch Fairuza's character develop as she discovered more about how empathy is not a limited resource, nor does it make one weak. I love this whole series, and this newest installment did not disappoint!
October 5, 2020
This one was great. One of the best of the series so far. I loved how we got a whole new version of Sleeping Beauty and Robin Hood. This is one I never would have guessed at the story line for. The author really got my attention with this one. I found this to be a story that was less dependent upon other versions of the tales and more on her imagination. This was a very fun story to read.
September 11, 2020
Nicely done!
I have enjoyed this series so far! I love the way all the books tie into each other. The characters are likeable and the story keeps you interested. Well done ❤️
I have enjoyed this series so far! I love the way all the books tie into each other. The characters are likeable and the story keeps you interested. Well done ❤️
January 10, 2021
Lucy Tempest's Fairytales of Folkshore series shows her mastery of mashed-up fairy tales and folk tales. The titular Dreamer is Princess Fairuza (from the Cahraman trilogy), who has fallen victim to the sleeping curse placed on her as a baby. She has not found the love of the noblest of men, and instead is in a kind of limbo, with her soul and body separated. The only person who can see her (at first) is Robin Hood (whose origins are very convoluted), a thief and friend of Fairuza's older brother Leander (aka, "The Beast"). Throw in a trip to the seasonal Faerie courts and a quest to find the Wild Hunt, and you get the perfect mash up of mythology, folk tales and fairy tales. Fairuza and Robin are a really great couple, even if it takes them forever to realize it, and all of the main characters are great and hopefully will get their own happy endings in future books.
August 20, 2020
Lucy Tempest's Fairy Tales of Folkshore series had a rocky start for me with the Thief of Cahraman trilogy. I'm glad I gave her books another chance because I loved her "Cinderella" retelling, Princess of Midnight. Now, she has a new book that combines "Sleeping Beauty" and "Robin Hood," which is one of the best "Sleeping Beauty" retellings I have ever read. Dreamer of Briarfell resolves the most common issues with developing "Sleeping Beauty" into a full-length novel while still remaining true to the roots of the fairy tale. The biggest obstacle an author has to face with adapting this story is finding a way for the princess to fall in love with the prince when she is asleep for the most important part of her adventure. I've seen some creative solutions to this issue, but none quite so clever as what Lucy Tempest did. This is by far my favorite book in the Fairy Tales of Folkshore series.
Dreamer of Briarfell tells the story of Princess Fairuza, Adelaide's rival in the original trilogy. Fairuza is Folkshore's version of Sleeping Beauty, cursed to die before the sun sets on her eighteenth birthday. A botched amendment to the spell from an attempt to save her resulted in her spirit separating from her body when the curse took effect. Fairuza awakens in a castle where her brother brought her unconscious body for safekeeping and realizes to her horror that no one can see or hear her. She is caught in a ghost-like state between life and death and helplessly floats through the halls until a handsome rogue shows up who can miraculously communicate with her. When she tells him about her plight, he agrees to help her and allows her to join him on his quest to the enchanted land of Faerie in her ghost-like form. Along the way, she is reunited with her two handmaidens, who she learns had a larger part in amending her curse than she initially realized. The only problem is that the rogue who is determined to save her is also quest of his own to rescue his beloved Maid Marian.
From the very beginning of the book, Fairuza and Robin see each other in ways that no one else can. She encounters him prior to her curse at a masked ball where he saves her from the threat of a werewolf. For a large portion of the story, he is forced to act as her interpreter because he is the only one who can communicate with her. Fairuza has little interest in the heroic stories of Robin Hood that had grown popular throughout the land, so she sees Robin as a person first and a hero second. Her quest to find a fairy king to proclaim his love for her and break her spell is heartbreaking when it is crystal clear from the beginning that Robin Hood is perfect for her. Fairuza believes that marrying a noble man is the only way to break her curse, and a thieving rogue seems to be the furthest thing possible, regardless how strongly she feels toward him. His loyalty to Marian poses an even bigger threat.
This book does a terrific job of expanding upon the mythology within the Fairy Tales of Folkshore series. It incorporates Greek mythology with the Underworld, which will be explored further in Folkshore's upcoming adaptation of "The Little Mermaid." It also makes references to the earlier books in the series by bringing back characters like Bonnie from Beast of Rosemead and Beauty of Rosemead and expands upon how everyone is related through various relatives in the land of Faerie. I love the dichotomy between the human world of Folkshore and the magical world of Faerie, where time moves differently and everyone is a magical being. The main characters from Folkshore always start out knowing little about magic and travel to Faerie and learn that they are much closer to the magic than they could have ever realized. In this case, Fairuza must learn to give up her prejudices against fairy people like her brother Leander did before her when she learns that many of the people she cares about are part of that race. It's a beautiful lesson on tolerance in a detailed fantasy setting.
I highly recommend Dreamer of Brairfell to anyone who enjoys fairy tales. It is a beautiful love story with excitement and adventure waiting on every page. I never wanted to put this book down. Turning Fairuza into a ghost was the perfect solution to the issue of Sleeping Beauty being asleep for the majority of her story. Incorporating the rich mythology of Robin Hood into her love interest was a clever twist that made his side of the story that much more intriguing. I loved the idea of Sleeping Beauty going on an adventure with her rescuers to offer advice to pass the trials they needed to do in order to save her. In a way, it gave her a chance to save herself, but she couldn't do it alone. For me, this was the perfect reimagining of a somewhat outdated fairy tale.
Dreamer of Briarfell tells the story of Princess Fairuza, Adelaide's rival in the original trilogy. Fairuza is Folkshore's version of Sleeping Beauty, cursed to die before the sun sets on her eighteenth birthday. A botched amendment to the spell from an attempt to save her resulted in her spirit separating from her body when the curse took effect. Fairuza awakens in a castle where her brother brought her unconscious body for safekeeping and realizes to her horror that no one can see or hear her. She is caught in a ghost-like state between life and death and helplessly floats through the halls until a handsome rogue shows up who can miraculously communicate with her. When she tells him about her plight, he agrees to help her and allows her to join him on his quest to the enchanted land of Faerie in her ghost-like form. Along the way, she is reunited with her two handmaidens, who she learns had a larger part in amending her curse than she initially realized. The only problem is that the rogue who is determined to save her is also quest of his own to rescue his beloved Maid Marian.
From the very beginning of the book, Fairuza and Robin see each other in ways that no one else can. She encounters him prior to her curse at a masked ball where he saves her from the threat of a werewolf. For a large portion of the story, he is forced to act as her interpreter because he is the only one who can communicate with her. Fairuza has little interest in the heroic stories of Robin Hood that had grown popular throughout the land, so she sees Robin as a person first and a hero second. Her quest to find a fairy king to proclaim his love for her and break her spell is heartbreaking when it is crystal clear from the beginning that Robin Hood is perfect for her. Fairuza believes that marrying a noble man is the only way to break her curse, and a thieving rogue seems to be the furthest thing possible, regardless how strongly she feels toward him. His loyalty to Marian poses an even bigger threat.
This book does a terrific job of expanding upon the mythology within the Fairy Tales of Folkshore series. It incorporates Greek mythology with the Underworld, which will be explored further in Folkshore's upcoming adaptation of "The Little Mermaid." It also makes references to the earlier books in the series by bringing back characters like Bonnie from Beast of Rosemead and Beauty of Rosemead and expands upon how everyone is related through various relatives in the land of Faerie. I love the dichotomy between the human world of Folkshore and the magical world of Faerie, where time moves differently and everyone is a magical being. The main characters from Folkshore always start out knowing little about magic and travel to Faerie and learn that they are much closer to the magic than they could have ever realized. In this case, Fairuza must learn to give up her prejudices against fairy people like her brother Leander did before her when she learns that many of the people she cares about are part of that race. It's a beautiful lesson on tolerance in a detailed fantasy setting.
I highly recommend Dreamer of Brairfell to anyone who enjoys fairy tales. It is a beautiful love story with excitement and adventure waiting on every page. I never wanted to put this book down. Turning Fairuza into a ghost was the perfect solution to the issue of Sleeping Beauty being asleep for the majority of her story. Incorporating the rich mythology of Robin Hood into her love interest was a clever twist that made his side of the story that much more intriguing. I loved the idea of Sleeping Beauty going on an adventure with her rescuers to offer advice to pass the trials they needed to do in order to save her. In a way, it gave her a chance to save herself, but she couldn't do it alone. For me, this was the perfect reimagining of a somewhat outdated fairy tale.
January 12, 2021
This was such a satisfying retelling of Sleeping Beauty + explanation of the contents of the Aladdin retelling details and just OMG so well done!!
September 27, 2020
Great!! Must read!
Fantastic read! I got all the romantic shivers. I won't lie, ignored this book in my tbr pile because though She redeems herself in previous books... I wasn't a fan of Faz. But, she grew on me! So did Robin!
Fantastic read! I got all the romantic shivers. I won't lie, ignored this book in my tbr pile because though She redeems herself in previous books... I wasn't a fan of Faz. But, she grew on me! So did Robin!
August 26, 2020
As with all of her books, Lucy Tempest has created a colorful, rich story fully of witty characters on an quest. Some of the characters in this book were so fun to read. The Robin Hood meets Sleeping Beauty twist was brilliant! I loved the story. This story is clean read with tasteful kissing and no swearing (I think...) I did feel it was a little predictable, but I think that's because the book moved at such a fast pace. I like that the story played out so fast, but I believe Lucy Tempest thrives on really getting you attached to characters when we get to spend more time with them. The reason I Love Fairuza so much comes from the Carahman trilogy. I look forward to future books and I'm hoping they will be a duology or trilogy again.
September 4, 2020
I have been waiting to hear how Fairuza’s story was going to work through since I first read this series. It was worth the wait!
This entire series is such a fun mash up reimagining of fairy tales that it just makes me smile. I devour these books like junk food, but without any of the calories.
I’m really hoping more books are to come.
This entire series is such a fun mash up reimagining of fairy tales that it just makes me smile. I devour these books like junk food, but without any of the calories.
I’m really hoping more books are to come.
August 18, 2020
As usual with Lucy Tempest, I wasn't able to put this book down. I read it all in one sitting, the world that she has created throughout this series continues to grow. We get to see a little more of the Faerie realm and more of the underworld as well. Each book makes me more excited and interested in reading the next.
Fairuza's curse has begun, but instead of just getting to sleep until woken, her soul is outside of her body and very much awake, with the help of Robin she must find the noblest of men to marry her to break her curse, will she do it before her soul leaves her body forever?
Fairuza's curse has begun, but instead of just getting to sleep until woken, her soul is outside of her body and very much awake, with the help of Robin she must find the noblest of men to marry her to break her curse, will she do it before her soul leaves her body forever?
August 18, 2020
Not just for the youngsters..
Fairytales of Folkshore is a great series. I have read the first 7 and each one is exciting.
The twists and turns are well thought out and intersected amazingly.
Can't wait for next book to come out.
Fairytales of Folkshore is a great series. I have read the first 7 and each one is exciting.
The twists and turns are well thought out and intersected amazingly.
Can't wait for next book to come out.
May 14, 2021
5 stars.
"Robin Hood, the selfless thief, the scourge of the unjust. He was the noblest of men."
I found a new favourite.
Just reading the synopsis already had me excited. I mean, Robin Hood retellings are a rare thing! But mixed with Sleeping Beauty? What a spicy mix....
I was looking forward to Fairuza's story a lot, paradoxically, and Lucy Tempest rocked her story. I didn't just like her because she can play the piano and harp (which I do too <3) but because her character had depth and meaning. Her pesky, selfish behaviour from books 1-3 was explained and justified and her back story was really though through. I related to her in a way I didn't think I would and Fairuza now has a special place in my heart, more than any other girl in this series.
I was very much intrigued by how the characters see each other... It was so... Realistic! I had already been surprised in The Midnight Princess when Ella wasn't just gushing about Bonnie, even though she'd been her only sort-of friend, but here too, the feelings and thoughts characters have about each other aren't bubbly pink, but a real, human way of perceiving others when they've wronged you, even if you've forgiven them. And that gave incredible depth to the story.
Now about Robin... What can I say, he's perfect. His personality was very close to how I imagine Robin Hood in classics and his story was amazing. I'm not going to say anything more because then I'll spoil, but thank you Lucy because I never knew I needed a Robin in my life before this guy.
Finally, let's talk about the dreams of premonition characters have, I just find them so cool! And they give such curiosity-inducing glimpses of the next books too!
Ah, and I need to mention the world-building. Although I was quite confused in book one, by this book, everything has settled down and has been explained-and what hasn't been, I've concluded for myself. I find Lucy's world incredibly interesting and unique, really, I've never seen anything like it. The diversity of allusions and places is breathtaking.
If you're looking for a clean read (a real one), with adventure, intrigue, travel, magic, fae and otherworldly experiences, this is the book for you!
"Robin Hood, the selfless thief, the scourge of the unjust. He was the noblest of men."
I found a new favourite.
Just reading the synopsis already had me excited. I mean, Robin Hood retellings are a rare thing! But mixed with Sleeping Beauty? What a spicy mix....
I was looking forward to Fairuza's story a lot, paradoxically, and Lucy Tempest rocked her story. I didn't just like her because she can play the piano and harp (which I do too <3) but because her character had depth and meaning. Her pesky, selfish behaviour from books 1-3 was explained and justified and her back story was really though through. I related to her in a way I didn't think I would and Fairuza now has a special place in my heart, more than any other girl in this series.
I was very much intrigued by how the characters see each other... It was so... Realistic! I had already been surprised in The Midnight Princess when Ella wasn't just gushing about Bonnie, even though she'd been her only sort-of friend, but here too, the feelings and thoughts characters have about each other aren't bubbly pink, but a real, human way of perceiving others when they've wronged you, even if you've forgiven them. And that gave incredible depth to the story.
Now about Robin... What can I say, he's perfect. His personality was very close to how I imagine Robin Hood in classics and his story was amazing. I'm not going to say anything more because then I'll spoil, but thank you Lucy because I never knew I needed a Robin in my life before this guy.
Finally, let's talk about the dreams of premonition characters have, I just find them so cool! And they give such curiosity-inducing glimpses of the next books too!
Ah, and I need to mention the world-building. Although I was quite confused in book one, by this book, everything has settled down and has been explained-and what hasn't been, I've concluded for myself. I find Lucy's world incredibly interesting and unique, really, I've never seen anything like it. The diversity of allusions and places is breathtaking.
If you're looking for a clean read (a real one), with adventure, intrigue, travel, magic, fae and otherworldly experiences, this is the book for you!
January 8, 2023
I have no idea why it took me so long to read the seventh book in this series. I loved all the previous books. I think most of them are now among my favorite retellings ever. But yeah, I guess that's the life of a book hoarder. At some point there are so many books I all want to read at once that even books I'm really looking forward to have to wait until I have time for them. However, today I really felt like picking this one up!
Retelling Sleeping Beauty is one of the hardest things in the world. After all, the heroine of the tale spends the most important parts of the tale asleep. In this case it's even harder, since all the books in this series have been written in a single point of view: the heroine's. I think the author did a great job, however. Mostly because she came up with a very clever way to have the princess both asleep and present to tell us the story.
I also love how well the stories of Robin Hood and Sleeping Beauty go together in this world. We already met our Robin in the Beauty and the Beast duet and it's amazing to see him back and to see him play such an important role in breaking the sister's curse. And even though our heroine is the Sleeping Beauty all the elements of the Robin Hood tale are also there and very well fitted into the world of the princess.
The romance in this story was also really cute and mostly because it's not about status or even about breaking the curse. We see the characters interact, we see them working together, we see how they are really completing each other and force the other to become a better person. It might not be a relationship filled with passion and fire, but it was the kind of relationship that will survive the long years and growing older.
I'm really looking forward to dive into the next book!
Retelling Sleeping Beauty is one of the hardest things in the world. After all, the heroine of the tale spends the most important parts of the tale asleep. In this case it's even harder, since all the books in this series have been written in a single point of view: the heroine's. I think the author did a great job, however. Mostly because she came up with a very clever way to have the princess both asleep and present to tell us the story.
I also love how well the stories of Robin Hood and Sleeping Beauty go together in this world. We already met our Robin in the Beauty and the Beast duet and it's amazing to see him back and to see him play such an important role in breaking the sister's curse. And even though our heroine is the Sleeping Beauty all the elements of the Robin Hood tale are also there and very well fitted into the world of the princess.
The romance in this story was also really cute and mostly because it's not about status or even about breaking the curse. We see the characters interact, we see them working together, we see how they are really completing each other and force the other to become a better person. It might not be a relationship filled with passion and fire, but it was the kind of relationship that will survive the long years and growing older.
I'm really looking forward to dive into the next book!
August 31, 2020
Another excellent retelling!! Fairuza has almost given up hope when she meets a mysterious man. Floating between life and death, fairuza makes self discoveries and character developments throughout the book that eventually lead her to her final fate. Loved the epilogue at the end too giving us more clues and insights about how all the characters are related in this world. Also the author used references to past characters to keep linking the stories together!
August 31, 2020
Well worth the wait
Adventure, bravery, true love, this Sleeping Beauty with a Robin His flair does not disappoint, and is so much more exciting than even I could imagine. I can hardly wait until they are ALL out and ready to read. Now to find my next good read.
Adventure, bravery, true love, this Sleeping Beauty with a Robin His flair does not disappoint, and is so much more exciting than even I could imagine. I can hardly wait until they are ALL out and ready to read. Now to find my next good read.
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