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Beyond the Curse #1
Awakened Princess
As the new heir to her father's throne, Keira thinks she knows exactly what's going to happen in her life.
After meeting a handsome prince at a ball, she uncovers the truth about her past, and the curse placed on her by a vengeful king.
With less than a year to find a way to undo the curse, can Keira stop it before it's too late?
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Awakened Princess is book one in the Beyond The Curse fantasy series. It is inspired by fairy tale lore. It includes an m/f romantic subplot.
After meeting a handsome prince at a ball, she uncovers the truth about her past, and the curse placed on her by a vengeful king.
With less than a year to find a way to undo the curse, can Keira stop it before it's too late?
-
Awakened Princess is book one in the Beyond The Curse fantasy series. It is inspired by fairy tale lore. It includes an m/f romantic subplot.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2014
200 people are currently reading
2013 people want to read
About the author
Laura Greenwood
575 books1,678 followersLaura is a USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy romance and urban fantasy. She lives in the UK, where most of her books are set, with her partner. When she's not writing, Laura can be found exploring worldwide cusine with her partner, drinking tea, and reading fantasy books. Laura specialises in quick reads, featuring healthy relationships and consent-positive moments, regardless of whether she's writing light-hearted romance, mythology-inspired modern fantasy, cozy fantasy or anything in between.
Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)
You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.
Happy Reading!
Discover one of Laura Greenwood's most popular series:
- The Apprentice of Anubis (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Forgotten Gods (mythology inspired fantasy romance)
- Jinx Paranormal Dating Agency (mythology inspired paranormal rom-com)
- House of Blood and Roses (vampire romantasy)
- Amethyst's Wand Shop Mysteries (urban fantasy murder mystery)
- Scales of Justice (mythology inspired modern/urban fantasy)
- Purple Oak Oasis (cozy fantasy romance)
- Falhaven Castle (cozy fantasy romance)
You can find a full book list and more information on her website, or in her Facebook Reader Group.
Happy Reading!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
January 9, 2024
Sorry this book was ass. The only reason why I finished it was because I got it for free and it was short. The instance that I knew that I wasn’t going to like it was when the male interest was not described (granted no one was given a description). I’m usually someone who doesn’t like too much details/descriptions but what do you mean “he is handsome” and “attractive” but we are not given an image of what he may look like ?? I was confused throughout the whole book cause what am I supposed to picture in my head ?? That’s one of the key things that a writer should NEVER FORGET !
On top of that why is his name just “Philip” 🫥 Let’s get creative with names and make it attractive for the love of god ! I couldn’t help myself from rolling my eyes when I read the name. I got irritated from such a small detail 😹
None of the characters had depth. Keira fell in love with Philip (?) because he’s attractive, kind to her, and is helping her to break her curse. In my opinion, there wasn’t any chemistry as they were just two characters being forced together. Keira’s relationship with her mother and father wasn’t developed as much I’d like. I didn’t get the sense of how the family dynamic was. I love when books show rather than tell which is the opposite of what this book is doing. “My parents give second chances” (something along those lines) I want to SEE how not being spoon-fed information. Everyone just fell in love with anybody without proper development. Everything felt rushed.
I don’t know how to best describe it but essentially the story just felt given. The characters got what they wanted without any push back. Keira was able to execute her plan without any trouble and she got the guy she wanted. I just felt bored. No plot twists, no nothing. This is the type of book you read for a bedtime story where everything turns out alright. I am one of those people who suffer when things don’t go great but at the same time just wow me PLEASE 😩
This story really felt like something you would read in middle school (even though I feel like I would still hate this book if I was younger). It’s just so easy to read ?? Same vocabulary was repeated over and over and I got all over again bored. Honorable mentions is the word “flits”. Again.. no descriptive words, just same vocabulary. Easy story, easy plot, easy characters, and it’s a predictable story. Cute concept but unfortunately it wasn’t executed well. At least the book was free but I just want my time back .. 🥲
On top of that why is his name just “Philip” 🫥 Let’s get creative with names and make it attractive for the love of god ! I couldn’t help myself from rolling my eyes when I read the name. I got irritated from such a small detail 😹
None of the characters had depth. Keira fell in love with Philip (?) because he’s attractive, kind to her, and is helping her to break her curse. In my opinion, there wasn’t any chemistry as they were just two characters being forced together. Keira’s relationship with her mother and father wasn’t developed as much I’d like. I didn’t get the sense of how the family dynamic was. I love when books show rather than tell which is the opposite of what this book is doing. “My parents give second chances” (something along those lines) I want to SEE how not being spoon-fed information. Everyone just fell in love with anybody without proper development. Everything felt rushed.
I don’t know how to best describe it but essentially the story just felt given. The characters got what they wanted without any push back. Keira was able to execute her plan without any trouble and she got the guy she wanted. I just felt bored. No plot twists, no nothing. This is the type of book you read for a bedtime story where everything turns out alright. I am one of those people who suffer when things don’t go great but at the same time just wow me PLEASE 😩
This story really felt like something you would read in middle school (even though I feel like I would still hate this book if I was younger). It’s just so easy to read ?? Same vocabulary was repeated over and over and I got all over again bored. Honorable mentions is the word “flits”. Again.. no descriptive words, just same vocabulary. Easy story, easy plot, easy characters, and it’s a predictable story. Cute concept but unfortunately it wasn’t executed well. At least the book was free but I just want my time back .. 🥲
Read
June 2, 2022Beyond The Curse:
1. Awakened Princess: books2read.com/awakenedprincess
2. Disguised Queen: books2read.com/disguisedqueen
3. Crowned Empress: books2read.com/crownedempress
Prequel: Cursed Crown : A Beyond The Curse Prequel: books2read.com/cursedcrown
Prequel: Betrayed Royals: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/orrjs94fdb
1. Awakened Princess: books2read.com/awakenedprincess
2. Disguised Queen: books2read.com/disguisedqueen
3. Crowned Empress: books2read.com/crownedempress
Prequel: Cursed Crown : A Beyond The Curse Prequel: books2read.com/cursedcrown
Prequel: Betrayed Royals: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/orrjs94fdb
November 11, 2017
Original spin with spark that intrigues!
This Author has in this book not just put a original spin to the whole story but added a whole new dimension to it, this adds a magical mystery tinge to the intrigue, and it was honestly very brilliant and ingeniously done. Not just re-tell the story, but revive, rejuvenate, pump it full with magic. And not to forget that she was able to add that mysterious spark, that allure, it ignites the intrigue and interest in the reader.
One of the hardest things there is for an author, is rewriting of a classic book. Naturally even more so when it originally is a childrens tale. Finding the balance between making the story yours as a writer, and still keeping it recognizable to the original is no easy feature. It takes the utmost skill to find the right amount of spice to add, to skillfully make it appealing to much more mature audience.
Very masterly and cleverly done!
This Author has in this book not just put a original spin to the whole story but added a whole new dimension to it, this adds a magical mystery tinge to the intrigue, and it was honestly very brilliant and ingeniously done. Not just re-tell the story, but revive, rejuvenate, pump it full with magic. And not to forget that she was able to add that mysterious spark, that allure, it ignites the intrigue and interest in the reader.
One of the hardest things there is for an author, is rewriting of a classic book. Naturally even more so when it originally is a childrens tale. Finding the balance between making the story yours as a writer, and still keeping it recognizable to the original is no easy feature. It takes the utmost skill to find the right amount of spice to add, to skillfully make it appealing to much more mature audience.
Very masterly and cleverly done!
Read
November 12, 2022Awakening is now part of the completely revamped and rewritten Beyond The Curse series. You can find the new version (which also includes some of the events from Cloaked) here: books2read.com/awakenedprincess
Changes include but aren't limited to: editing changes, complete removal of some scenes, POV changed to solely Keira, removal of paranormal elements to focus on the fantasy elements of the stories.
Changes include but aren't limited to: editing changes, complete removal of some scenes, POV changed to solely Keira, removal of paranormal elements to focus on the fantasy elements of the stories.
January 23, 2022
Awakened Princess by Laura Greenwood is the first book in the Beyond the Curse series, which is a slow burn fairytale inspired romance.
The story follows Keira and Philip who meet at the masquerade ball for Keira’s formal introduction as the heir of Alventia, which begins their budding romance.
Whilst they are from two different kingdoms and their parents are enemies, these two characters come together to work on stopping the curse which will come in to play when Sophia turns nineteen.
I can’t wait to read the second book in this series and see what’s next in-store for these characters, and others. I also really enjoyed the hints of numerous fairytales which have been interwoven into the one world.
The story follows Keira and Philip who meet at the masquerade ball for Keira’s formal introduction as the heir of Alventia, which begins their budding romance.
Whilst they are from two different kingdoms and their parents are enemies, these two characters come together to work on stopping the curse which will come in to play when Sophia turns nineteen.
I can’t wait to read the second book in this series and see what’s next in-store for these characters, and others. I also really enjoyed the hints of numerous fairytales which have been interwoven into the one world.
June 23, 2022
"Awakened Princess": 4 ⭐
Sleeping Beauty vibes. The Prince is even called Philip.
Basically, this is a story about two rival kingdoms, one with magic proeminent and the other, not so much; one filled with riches, grace and beauty and the other, cruelty.
So, our princess Keira, is the heir to the throne of Alventia and she's to become one of the best queens people have ever seen.
She meets Philip one night and everything comes crumbling down because she finds out about a curse her aunt put on her.
There you go. The plot is Sleeping Beauty and I'm totally here for it.
Sleeping Beauty vibes. The Prince is even called Philip.
Basically, this is a story about two rival kingdoms, one with magic proeminent and the other, not so much; one filled with riches, grace and beauty and the other, cruelty.
So, our princess Keira, is the heir to the throne of Alventia and she's to become one of the best queens people have ever seen.
She meets Philip one night and everything comes crumbling down because she finds out about a curse her aunt put on her.
There you go. The plot is Sleeping Beauty and I'm totally here for it.
May 15, 2014
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
Awakening is a nice new way to tell an old fairytale, but darker... Since the book is a novella, it's a nice short read inbetween.
As Keira wakes up after a long, long sleep, she finally meets the man of her dreams, Philip. But she also wakes up to more darker thoughts of blood and flesh. When she travels back to Philips kingdom, she has to chose her destiny. Or does she?
The first thing that striked me as odd is that the whole book is written in the past tense. As first I thought when will the present start, but after some time I didn't find it weird anymore.
I think the story would have benefitted, if the characters had a bit more dept. We learn a lot about Keira, but all the other characters are still strangers to me now. It would have been great if we could read about the different motivations behind the choices of the other people.
I also found their was not enough of scene setting. I don't really care about all the surroundings, but it is nice to at least have a small description of a room Keira spends a lot of time in (although she probably did see much of it :)).
I did finish the story in one go and not only because it is short. I did enjoy reading it and loved the concept of dark fairy tales. The end is quick and left me wanting more...
Awakening is a nice new way to tell an old fairytale, but darker... Since the book is a novella, it's a nice short read inbetween.
As Keira wakes up after a long, long sleep, she finally meets the man of her dreams, Philip. But she also wakes up to more darker thoughts of blood and flesh. When she travels back to Philips kingdom, she has to chose her destiny. Or does she?
The first thing that striked me as odd is that the whole book is written in the past tense. As first I thought when will the present start, but after some time I didn't find it weird anymore.
I think the story would have benefitted, if the characters had a bit more dept. We learn a lot about Keira, but all the other characters are still strangers to me now. It would have been great if we could read about the different motivations behind the choices of the other people.
I also found their was not enough of scene setting. I don't really care about all the surroundings, but it is nice to at least have a small description of a room Keira spends a lot of time in (although she probably did see much of it :)).
I did finish the story in one go and not only because it is short. I did enjoy reading it and loved the concept of dark fairy tales. The end is quick and left me wanting more...
May 27, 2014
I received this book from StoryCartel in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This put the Grimm back into Fairytales, this is no Disney remake! This is a mash-up of Sleeping Beauty, Hansel and Gretal and even a dash of Rumpelstiltskin in the shape of the Dark King who wants the first born. The twist part that I really liked was that although Keira was 'sleeping' she was still aware of events happening around her.
This is only a novella so events move fairly quickly but it still tweaked my interest and I would definitely be interested in reading more about the trials and tribulations of Keira and Philip.
This put the Grimm back into Fairytales, this is no Disney remake! This is a mash-up of Sleeping Beauty, Hansel and Gretal and even a dash of Rumpelstiltskin in the shape of the Dark King who wants the first born. The twist part that I really liked was that although Keira was 'sleeping' she was still aware of events happening around her.
This is only a novella so events move fairly quickly but it still tweaked my interest and I would definitely be interested in reading more about the trials and tribulations of Keira and Philip.
May 30, 2014
I received a free digital copy from storycartel.com in exchange for a review.
This book was easy-to-read and cute. The awakening part was quite steamy, and I enjoyed the characters. The combination of fairy tales characters such as Hansel and Gretel was a nice surprise and helped add substance to the story. The drinking scene with Keira, Phillip, Hansel and Gretel was wicked and exciting.
There were some typos/spelling errors, and in some parts I felt that the author should use stronger words, but for the most part, it was an engaging story. I'm interested to know more about Keira and Phillip's relationship and more about Hansel and Gretel's story.
This book was easy-to-read and cute. The awakening part was quite steamy, and I enjoyed the characters. The combination of fairy tales characters such as Hansel and Gretel was a nice surprise and helped add substance to the story. The drinking scene with Keira, Phillip, Hansel and Gretel was wicked and exciting.
There were some typos/spelling errors, and in some parts I felt that the author should use stronger words, but for the most part, it was an engaging story. I'm interested to know more about Keira and Phillip's relationship and more about Hansel and Gretel's story.
November 2, 2015
A Great Twisted Fairy Tale
This is a very quick read, perfect for a lunch break or just a little book break when you need one. Even though it is a short read it lacks absolutely nothing, though it is a bit fast paced, bordering on rushed, but come on people it's a novella, and I find that to be somewhat expected. This is a twisted telling of Sleeping Beauty and the author has done a tremendous job with it. I like that she added in Hansel and Gretel and a very unique twist. I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
This is a very quick read, perfect for a lunch break or just a little book break when you need one. Even though it is a short read it lacks absolutely nothing, though it is a bit fast paced, bordering on rushed, but come on people it's a novella, and I find that to be somewhat expected. This is a twisted telling of Sleeping Beauty and the author has done a tremendous job with it. I like that she added in Hansel and Gretel and a very unique twist. I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
August 31, 2018
* I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
This is an interesting twist on the Sleeping Beauty tale, yet it wasn’t quite solid enough to win me over fully. There were plenty of interesting details in there, plenty of story that was a diversion from the original tale. The thing that let it down the most was the editing. It’s not just spelling mistakes, but whole sentence structure that falls apart. The story telling itself was mostly good, yet that was let down somewhat by the messiness. There were sentences to pull you in, followed by one that stopped short. It could have been so much better, especially as there was so much enjoyable story to be found within, so many intriguing details.
I do like the dark side, the vampire twist. If anything, once Keira was awake, the story took on a turn for a better (there were times when I was getting bored with the minor details whilst she was sleeping). It became more colourful and I was able to picture it better, as it turned from a retelling into an original story. I guess, thinking about it, the beginning, the near verbatim retelling, just didn’t quite cut it for me. I’m glad that it did improve towards the end.
As an addendum, the author makes a note on using British English terms and spelling. To be honest, being English myself, I didn’t notice that many specific dialectal word choices, but I do so enjoy reading UK English spellings, instead of the usual spattering of US English that you see just about everywhere in the popular self-pubbed world.
All in all, an OK start, but it could be so much better!
Final rating: ★★★☆☆ – Sort of liked/OK
This is an interesting twist on the Sleeping Beauty tale, yet it wasn’t quite solid enough to win me over fully. There were plenty of interesting details in there, plenty of story that was a diversion from the original tale. The thing that let it down the most was the editing. It’s not just spelling mistakes, but whole sentence structure that falls apart. The story telling itself was mostly good, yet that was let down somewhat by the messiness. There were sentences to pull you in, followed by one that stopped short. It could have been so much better, especially as there was so much enjoyable story to be found within, so many intriguing details.
I do like the dark side, the vampire twist. If anything, once Keira was awake, the story took on a turn for a better (there were times when I was getting bored with the minor details whilst she was sleeping). It became more colourful and I was able to picture it better, as it turned from a retelling into an original story. I guess, thinking about it, the beginning, the near verbatim retelling, just didn’t quite cut it for me. I’m glad that it did improve towards the end.
As an addendum, the author makes a note on using British English terms and spelling. To be honest, being English myself, I didn’t notice that many specific dialectal word choices, but I do so enjoy reading UK English spellings, instead of the usual spattering of US English that you see just about everywhere in the popular self-pubbed world.
All in all, an OK start, but it could be so much better!
Final rating: ★★★☆☆ – Sort of liked/OK
June 24, 2020
I do love the Sleeping Beauty story, and I love the idea of building on the original tale and following Sleeping Beauty after she awakens. The Sleeping Beauty part is really only in the first 2 chapters. Once she awakens, it really ceases to be a Sleeping Beauty re-telling and becomes a stereotypical turn the vampires into good guys story and that it’s perfectly good and fine to take other people’s blood since it’s sexy. I really didn’t get the whole turning her into a vampire. She was asleep and her dreams just went dark and then she suddenly woke up as a vampire. There was no explanation for it. And why something as defined as a vampire? There are plenty of dark things in books that aren’t vampires. There’s darkness itself. I think I’ve just gotten tired of vampires being a go-to dark fantasy creature. I didn’t really care for all the sex in this either. There’s also the problem of this didn’t feel like a full book. It had a good length to it, so it didn’t feel short, but it ends on a cliffhanger without resolving the ending. I noticed the next couple of books in the series focus on other couples and it doesn’t pick up with this cliffhanger until Book 4 in the series (this being Book 1). As far as the characters go, neither one seemed to have much in the way of personality, other than being focused on how they presented themselves, and wanting sex. It was a fun idea, and it focuses a lot on dresses, and Keira growing up from young princess into a woman, and it does touch on other fairy tales within the world.
January 25, 2024
Kiera’s announced as the heir to the kingdom, and discovers that she’s been living under a lot of half-truths. What follows is a mad scramble to learn more about her history and how to defeat the magic that ensnares her life. But, is ending the curse really the end of what awaits her? That was a fascinating take on the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. And it sounds like there’s a lot of backstory that I’m going to need to investigate in the author’s prequel novellas. I can’t wait to see where this series will go next.
April 24, 2018
Interesting twist
A Vampiric Sleeping Beauty retelling. Has moments of predictability but still a good story. All the hallmarks of a traditional fairytale. A damsel in distress with a conquering male that’s a good boy from a bad family who rides in and saves the day.
A Vampiric Sleeping Beauty retelling. Has moments of predictability but still a good story. All the hallmarks of a traditional fairytale. A damsel in distress with a conquering male that’s a good boy from a bad family who rides in and saves the day.
January 22, 2024
A fun little palette cleanser
I enjoyed how short and fast paced this was.
I felt like this was just missing a little oomph. The characters were just okay.
A good palette cleanser though!
I enjoyed how short and fast paced this was.
I felt like this was just missing a little oomph. The characters were just okay.
A good palette cleanser though!
Want to read
June 16, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (6/16/2018)!💝
April 23, 2024
Very meh book
June 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review
Let me preface this review with saying that this novella was just okay for me. I’m not big on erotica books and this would qualify as such.
Awakening by Laura Greenwood is the first book in a unique retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty. Keira is the princess of Alventia and her whole life she has heard the stories about her mother’s curse. However she doesn’t believe them, until the eve of her 18th birthday she sits down at a spinning wheel, pricking her finger and falling into a wakeful sleep. Aware of what goes on around her but unable to respond, Keira drifts through life for 96 years until her Prince awakens her. But she doesn’t wake up human, instead she is now a vampire cursed to be either the greatest Queen Alventia has ever seen or usher in the Darkness to her kingdom.
So I didn’t love the characters of this book. Keira and the Prince fell flat for me. There wasn’t a lot of exploration into the reasoning behind their actions. However since this is a novella I’m able to overlook this. Keira starts out as your typical princess, but during her sleep changes into what I call a vampire…you know drinking and craving blood, though daylight doesn’t seem to be an issue for her ;) Philip the Dark King’s son is the prince lucky enough to waken her. Philip is kind and despite his upbringing I found him rather sweet. His whole focus is on Keira. Everything he has done has been for her. It’s a bit overwhelming to wake up after 96 years to find your Prince has been searching for you that long!
This novella centers around Keira becoming whatever she’s become after her cursed sleep. Keira accepts her fate without much question or emotion. Me…I would’ve been freaking out if I woke up craving blood, Keira acted like it was just another day. Then there was the insta-love or I guess it was more lust between Philip and Keira that then turned to love. I don’t know why but it kinda annoyed me. I mean she wakes up after 96 years and basically jumps the guy. I mean kiss the guy sure but jump in the sack with him…I don’t think so.
Overall the premise of the story was intriguing and the ending itself was enough to leave me wanting to read the next one. Also I love the tie in to Hansel and Gretel. In this retelling they are seers and Gretel is a powerful witch. I <3 Gretel! She’s my fave character. If you enjoy dark fantasy, fairy tale retellings, and new adult then I think you’ll enjoy this book. Just keep in mind it is a novella, so it is short!
Let me preface this review with saying that this novella was just okay for me. I’m not big on erotica books and this would qualify as such.
Awakening by Laura Greenwood is the first book in a unique retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty. Keira is the princess of Alventia and her whole life she has heard the stories about her mother’s curse. However she doesn’t believe them, until the eve of her 18th birthday she sits down at a spinning wheel, pricking her finger and falling into a wakeful sleep. Aware of what goes on around her but unable to respond, Keira drifts through life for 96 years until her Prince awakens her. But she doesn’t wake up human, instead she is now a vampire cursed to be either the greatest Queen Alventia has ever seen or usher in the Darkness to her kingdom.
So I didn’t love the characters of this book. Keira and the Prince fell flat for me. There wasn’t a lot of exploration into the reasoning behind their actions. However since this is a novella I’m able to overlook this. Keira starts out as your typical princess, but during her sleep changes into what I call a vampire…you know drinking and craving blood, though daylight doesn’t seem to be an issue for her ;) Philip the Dark King’s son is the prince lucky enough to waken her. Philip is kind and despite his upbringing I found him rather sweet. His whole focus is on Keira. Everything he has done has been for her. It’s a bit overwhelming to wake up after 96 years to find your Prince has been searching for you that long!
This novella centers around Keira becoming whatever she’s become after her cursed sleep. Keira accepts her fate without much question or emotion. Me…I would’ve been freaking out if I woke up craving blood, Keira acted like it was just another day. Then there was the insta-love or I guess it was more lust between Philip and Keira that then turned to love. I don’t know why but it kinda annoyed me. I mean she wakes up after 96 years and basically jumps the guy. I mean kiss the guy sure but jump in the sack with him…I don’t think so.
Overall the premise of the story was intriguing and the ending itself was enough to leave me wanting to read the next one. Also I love the tie in to Hansel and Gretel. In this retelling they are seers and Gretel is a powerful witch. I <3 Gretel! She’s my fave character. If you enjoy dark fantasy, fairy tale retellings, and new adult then I think you’ll enjoy this book. Just keep in mind it is a novella, so it is short!
October 26, 2015
I found this novella an enjoyable read. Keira is your typical princess in the beginning of the story. She has heard the prophecy her entire life but doesn’t believe in fairy tales. On the eve of her eighteenth birthday where Keira was announced and crowned heir to the throne of Alventia to the entire kingdom. As the ball commenced she danced her way into adulthood hoping to find her prince. At the end of the evening on her way to her bed chamber a light from a small room attracted her attention. Hoping to find attendants in a compromising position she peeked into the room. Finding a spinning wheel instead she sat down to spin. We all know she pricked her finger and fell into a deep sleep.
This is where the story differs and the author takes us on a unique journey where Keira’s sleep isn’t as deep as we supposed. Keira is able to hear everything going on around her occasionally dreaming dark dreams. As time passes and her parents pass away she mourns their loss. Eventually she is left alone with few visitors or caretakers and starts to feel a change taking place within herself. We see her dreams, know her desires, as we watch this transformation occur, although we don’t know why because we don’t have all the pieces of the puzzle yet.
When Prince Phillip arrives, he knows what she needs and desires. Phillip, despite being raised by the Dark King, is patient, kind, has a good heart. He knows Keira is meant for him alone but wants her to love him for the man he is. Not because some prophecy or the Dark King deems it so. He feels an overwhelming desire to prove himself to Keira because of who his father is.
Including the adult Hansel and Gretel in this tale was absolute genius. They play an important role and bring part of the story to light. It is through Gretel that we get the full prophecy. Ms. Greenwood was able to modify them just enough to make them fit perfectly in her story. It’s going to be interesting as we learn more about Keira’s heritage. We were told early on her grandmother had enough power to alter the curse placed by the Dark King. Not to mention other factors that may come into play as certain aspects of the prophecy still hang in the balance. I look forward to more from Ms. Greenwood, I think she is an author to watch.
FYI: This is book one of The Alventia Series. The author uses British spellings. There is some sexual content however, it is mostly implied and not overly descriptive. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** October 21, 2015
Format/Typo Issues: A small number of proofing errors.
This is where the story differs and the author takes us on a unique journey where Keira’s sleep isn’t as deep as we supposed. Keira is able to hear everything going on around her occasionally dreaming dark dreams. As time passes and her parents pass away she mourns their loss. Eventually she is left alone with few visitors or caretakers and starts to feel a change taking place within herself. We see her dreams, know her desires, as we watch this transformation occur, although we don’t know why because we don’t have all the pieces of the puzzle yet.
When Prince Phillip arrives, he knows what she needs and desires. Phillip, despite being raised by the Dark King, is patient, kind, has a good heart. He knows Keira is meant for him alone but wants her to love him for the man he is. Not because some prophecy or the Dark King deems it so. He feels an overwhelming desire to prove himself to Keira because of who his father is.
Including the adult Hansel and Gretel in this tale was absolute genius. They play an important role and bring part of the story to light. It is through Gretel that we get the full prophecy. Ms. Greenwood was able to modify them just enough to make them fit perfectly in her story. It’s going to be interesting as we learn more about Keira’s heritage. We were told early on her grandmother had enough power to alter the curse placed by the Dark King. Not to mention other factors that may come into play as certain aspects of the prophecy still hang in the balance. I look forward to more from Ms. Greenwood, I think she is an author to watch.
FYI: This is book one of The Alventia Series. The author uses British spellings. There is some sexual content however, it is mostly implied and not overly descriptive. **Originally written for "BigAl’s Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.** October 21, 2015
Format/Typo Issues: A small number of proofing errors.
September 30, 2015
Synopsis: Awakening is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty with some twists. Princess Keira of Alventia grew up hearing about a princess who was doomed to sleep for 100 years when she turns eighteen. She never really believed in it until it happened to her. She pricks her finger on a spindle and falls into a ‘waking’ sleep, where she knows what is going on around her. As the decades pass, fewer and fewer people come to visit. And somehow, she turns into a vampire. We don’t know for sure if this is part of the original curse or not. With not many years left of her curse, she is kissed awake by Phillip, the son of the Dark King, the one who made the original deal with the Queen who desperately wanted a child. Her castle became desolate while she was sleeping, but this is okay because she goes with Phillip to his. The rest of the story has her interacting with the Dark King and Hansel and Gretel and learning more about her curse and what she has become.
Cover Art: I like how the rose in the foreground draws your attention. It really stands out against the neutral colors in the background. It would have been interesting to see a petal falling off the rose or even a drop of blood (since she does become a vampire). The whole scene reminds me of the Disney movie where the prince is trying to get through all the brambles.
My Thoughts: This novella has potential. Unfortunately, there were mistakes not caught during editing, and the sentence structure doesn’t always flow very well. I hope the author gets some guidance or a good editor so her stories get better. I also enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first. That’s when the writing seemed more fluid.
One reviewer said this story is erotica. I have read erotica, and based on those stories, this one is not. There is one scene with explicit sex, but the rest of the sexual content is implied or referenced.
Notes: There is mature content in this book. Also, there are British spellings used (which I get a kick out of).
Rating: 2.5 stars (I did deduct for the spelling and awkward sentences because there were so many, but I added a little back because I can see how someone could enjoy this book)
disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Cover Art: I like how the rose in the foreground draws your attention. It really stands out against the neutral colors in the background. It would have been interesting to see a petal falling off the rose or even a drop of blood (since she does become a vampire). The whole scene reminds me of the Disney movie where the prince is trying to get through all the brambles.
My Thoughts: This novella has potential. Unfortunately, there were mistakes not caught during editing, and the sentence structure doesn’t always flow very well. I hope the author gets some guidance or a good editor so her stories get better. I also enjoyed the second half of the book more than the first. That’s when the writing seemed more fluid.
One reviewer said this story is erotica. I have read erotica, and based on those stories, this one is not. There is one scene with explicit sex, but the rest of the sexual content is implied or referenced.
Notes: There is mature content in this book. Also, there are British spellings used (which I get a kick out of).
Rating: 2.5 stars (I did deduct for the spelling and awkward sentences because there were so many, but I added a little back because I can see how someone could enjoy this book)
disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
November 2, 2015
Overall Stars: 5 STARS
Stepbrother
Grief
Imagine your favorite fairy tale and let’s add a spice of darkness: let’s meet Keira and Philip.
Take a journey to an alternate world where not everything is what it seems.
In an effort to have a child, the Queen makes a deal with the Dark King, but she soon discovers that the deal has dire consequences for her beloved Sleeping Beauty. In an effort to help, the Queen’s mother alters the curse so that Keira will sleep for 100 years, but there is a catch; if Keira awakens before then she may still be doomed.
After sleeping for over 90 years, Keira is awoken by Philip, the son of the Dark King and the one she was intended for. Despite sharing his father's bloodline, Philip refuses to be like his father and won't make Keira do anything that she isn't ready for.
Supported by a powerful witch and her brother, Hansel and Gretel, Philip and Keira have to make a choice, one that will define Keira's destiny. Changing their lives forever.. (Amazon Blurb)
As a parent, I know that many of us has sat down at one time or another with a child and watched endless hours of Princess and Princes with their Happily Ever After, all the while you’re wondering how it can be possible for the princess and the prince to be madly in love after meeting for 5 minutes and bang they’re married. We all know that in the first 5 minutes, most of us think about s£x first and marriage and happily ever after years later! So, what if we had the chance to read a story about these characters, that is dark, sexual and made entirely for adults. Laura Greenwood has created such a world that I believe I fell in love with Cinderella (aka Keira) and Philip all over again; her stories are the perfect balance between taking the old and bringing it to the modern craze. She showed us why as children we fell in love with the numerous Disney Princess and Prince movies and now, as adults, our Princess and Princes are showing us just how seductive the alternate world really is.
.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
Stepbrother
Grief
Imagine your favorite fairy tale and let’s add a spice of darkness: let’s meet Keira and Philip.
Take a journey to an alternate world where not everything is what it seems.
In an effort to have a child, the Queen makes a deal with the Dark King, but she soon discovers that the deal has dire consequences for her beloved Sleeping Beauty. In an effort to help, the Queen’s mother alters the curse so that Keira will sleep for 100 years, but there is a catch; if Keira awakens before then she may still be doomed.
After sleeping for over 90 years, Keira is awoken by Philip, the son of the Dark King and the one she was intended for. Despite sharing his father's bloodline, Philip refuses to be like his father and won't make Keira do anything that she isn't ready for.
Supported by a powerful witch and her brother, Hansel and Gretel, Philip and Keira have to make a choice, one that will define Keira's destiny. Changing their lives forever.. (Amazon Blurb)
As a parent, I know that many of us has sat down at one time or another with a child and watched endless hours of Princess and Princes with their Happily Ever After, all the while you’re wondering how it can be possible for the princess and the prince to be madly in love after meeting for 5 minutes and bang they’re married. We all know that in the first 5 minutes, most of us think about s£x first and marriage and happily ever after years later! So, what if we had the chance to read a story about these characters, that is dark, sexual and made entirely for adults. Laura Greenwood has created such a world that I believe I fell in love with Cinderella (aka Keira) and Philip all over again; her stories are the perfect balance between taking the old and bringing it to the modern craze. She showed us why as children we fell in love with the numerous Disney Princess and Prince movies and now, as adults, our Princess and Princes are showing us just how seductive the alternate world really is.
.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
June 15, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Once upon a time, in a kingdom named Alventia, there was a beloved king and queen who wished for nothing more than to have a baby. However, despite the light that this king and queen had, there was also a darkness. A darkness who granted their wishes of having a baby, and soon after Keira was born. Keira was prophesied to rule the kingdom with even more grace than her parents before her, yet, the darkness had claimed that Keira would return to his power on the eve of her 18th birthday.
In this fairytale retelling of the much loved story Sleeping Beauty, there is a paranormal twist.
I liked this book, it was quick and easy to read, despite a few typos along the way. However, something about it put me off, maybe it was how Keira's now dead parents were never mentioned or how the reader was never provided with a back story to how the Kingdom had fallen into the hands of the Darkness. I hope that the following books will hold more back story. The awakening was also pretty steamy.
My overall rating would be a 3/3.5 Stars. I enjoyed the writing and the unique twist on this classic fairytale.
Once upon a time, in a kingdom named Alventia, there was a beloved king and queen who wished for nothing more than to have a baby. However, despite the light that this king and queen had, there was also a darkness. A darkness who granted their wishes of having a baby, and soon after Keira was born. Keira was prophesied to rule the kingdom with even more grace than her parents before her, yet, the darkness had claimed that Keira would return to his power on the eve of her 18th birthday.
In this fairytale retelling of the much loved story Sleeping Beauty, there is a paranormal twist.
I liked this book, it was quick and easy to read, despite a few typos along the way. However, something about it put me off, maybe it was how Keira's now dead parents were never mentioned or how the reader was never provided with a back story to how the Kingdom had fallen into the hands of the Darkness. I hope that the following books will hold more back story. The awakening was also pretty steamy.
My overall rating would be a 3/3.5 Stars. I enjoyed the writing and the unique twist on this classic fairytale.
February 9, 2022
Breaking the Vengeful Curse . . .
This story will let you step into a fairy tale with a bit of a twist to make it new yet familiar. Princess Keira meets Prince Philip at her 18th birthday ball. They are both attracted to each other, but there is animosity between their families and the result was that a curse had been placed on Keira. Her aunt had interceded and changed the original curse at the last moment to make her fall asleep instead for 100 years when she reaches her 19th birthday. This gives her a year to find a way to end the curse. With Philip’s help, can they find a solution and prevent the fate that awaits her?
This author has such a magical touch with this type of story. I have loved every one of them! The characters are well-portrayed, and the story line is perfectly paced to keep the events intriguing while carrying the reader deftly through to the end of their tale. Grab your copy and enjoy this new turn in the “Sleeping Beauty” tale you may have grown up with, and let the magic carry you back to your own childhood memories.
This story will let you step into a fairy tale with a bit of a twist to make it new yet familiar. Princess Keira meets Prince Philip at her 18th birthday ball. They are both attracted to each other, but there is animosity between their families and the result was that a curse had been placed on Keira. Her aunt had interceded and changed the original curse at the last moment to make her fall asleep instead for 100 years when she reaches her 19th birthday. This gives her a year to find a way to end the curse. With Philip’s help, can they find a solution and prevent the fate that awaits her?
This author has such a magical touch with this type of story. I have loved every one of them! The characters are well-portrayed, and the story line is perfectly paced to keep the events intriguing while carrying the reader deftly through to the end of their tale. Grab your copy and enjoy this new turn in the “Sleeping Beauty” tale you may have grown up with, and let the magic carry you back to your own childhood memories.
November 4, 2015
This is a very strange book for me to review. When I started it, it had the feel of the Sleeping Beauty trilogy from Anne Rice, but as I got further into the story, it went a completely different way. Which I enjoyed a lot.
This was a very quick read, I would say that it would be a really good lunchtime read if your looking for something that has smutty times, as well as will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next.
The twists and turns that Greenwood added to the story certainly made it their own. And it kept my attention and left me wanting to read more.
There is a cliffhanger at the end of this story, at least for me there was, and so I hope that Greenwood will be continuing on with this series in the future.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
This was a very quick read, I would say that it would be a really good lunchtime read if your looking for something that has smutty times, as well as will keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next.
The twists and turns that Greenwood added to the story certainly made it their own. And it kept my attention and left me wanting to read more.
There is a cliffhanger at the end of this story, at least for me there was, and so I hope that Greenwood will be continuing on with this series in the future.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
February 1, 2022
2.5⭐
I went in expecting this to be a true YA book, and while the ages of the characters fit the YA age group I feel like the writing is more geared towards a younger audience. This reminds me of a similar writing style to Shannon Hale's The Goose Girl which I enjoyed when I was in my early teens.
The book itself is fine, the story is a fairytale retelling of sleeping beauty. I just finished a book that had to much detail and this one didn't have enough! The books is tiny, and I am all for a fast moving plot this felt very disjointed and the characters felt very basic
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this book and I really feel that a younger reader (11-14) would really enjoy it. It just wasn't something that I loved
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I went in expecting this to be a true YA book, and while the ages of the characters fit the YA age group I feel like the writing is more geared towards a younger audience. This reminds me of a similar writing style to Shannon Hale's The Goose Girl which I enjoyed when I was in my early teens.
The book itself is fine, the story is a fairytale retelling of sleeping beauty. I just finished a book that had to much detail and this one didn't have enough! The books is tiny, and I am all for a fast moving plot this felt very disjointed and the characters felt very basic
There is absolutely nothing wrong with this book and I really feel that a younger reader (11-14) would really enjoy it. It just wasn't something that I loved
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2022
Keira meets Phillip, a prince from a neighboring realm, and then finds out that his father cursed her when she was very young. Her aunt changed the curse so she would sleep for 100 years upon her 19th birthday instead of worse. They find Finette, a witch who lives outside the city, who thinks she can change or stop the curse, but there are stipulations. The characters are well developed, determined and falling for each other. The storyline has drama, surprises, intrigue, deception, stealing from the Kings treasury, residing in castles and much more. Totally hooked within a few pages and could not put it down. The ending is good and gets you ready for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2022
Such an entertaining and enjoyable read! This is the first book in the 'Beyond the Curse' series and it is off to a great start. I found the characters and their situation very interesting and am excited to read the next book in the series. I love when couples find out that they were really not supposed to fall for each other and have to come up with a way to fix it. So excited for the next story to see what happens next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2022
Keira is the heir to the Alventia throne and to celebrate, her family throws a ball. I'm attendance is the son of the rival family from another kingdom, Philip. The two have an instant spark, and despite being from two warring families, try to come together as one.
This is the first book in the series and it did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the authors ability to give us a fairytale retelling that actually felt original. This was a semi slow burn romance, and by the end of the book the couple is just melting your heart.
This is the first book in the series and it did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the authors ability to give us a fairytale retelling that actually felt original. This was a semi slow burn romance, and by the end of the book the couple is just melting your heart.
January 11, 2022
So this is book one in the Beyond The Curse fantasy series and it’s off to a fab start! Exciting, magical and a curse sets us up in this entertaining story. Girl meets boy, girl falls for boy then finds out his father is the one who cursed her, can boy help break the curse? is true love the answer? Can war be prevented? Well I read this in one sitting, I enjoyed it that much and I am so looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
February 7, 2022
And so the series begins….This is one of those stories that’s light and heavy all at the same time. Built loosely on the fariytale of Sleeping Beauty, this story has magic, menace and romance. It is a quick read with wonderful characters and an interesting plot. I am looking forward to what comes next!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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