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The Kingdom Tales #5
Kingdom of Locks
Aurelia carries the most powerful weapon in the kingdom—she just can’t wield it
Stolen as a baby by an egotistical enchanter, Aurelia has spent her entire life locked in a tower, her impractically long hair serving as a vessel in which her captor can store his magic. Every day is predictable—at least, until Cyfrin’s manner and experiments take an inexplicable turn. Now Aurelia’s biggest challenge is convincing her fellow prisoner—the only mother she’s ever known—that she’s strong enough to handle the truth behind the enchanter’s strange behavior. The trouble is, she’ll first need to convince herself.
Prince Amell might be known for his restlessness, but he’s grown out of his childish dreams of heroics…mostly. When a break out occurs at the prison containing all the continent’s criminal magic-users, he’s eager to join the manhunt. Little does he expect that, with the somewhat perplexing help of some dragons, he’ll find something else entirely, lying hidden in the heart of his kingdom.
But the magic that holds Aurelia and her mother captive is like nothing Amell has seen before, and his failure to rescue them shows how far he actually is from the hero of his childhood fantasies. Both Aurelia and Amell will have to find a strength they didn’t know they had in order to overcome the dark schemes in which Aurelia has played an unwilling part. And if they fail, more futures than hers will be lost to the man who stole her past.
Stolen as a baby by an egotistical enchanter, Aurelia has spent her entire life locked in a tower, her impractically long hair serving as a vessel in which her captor can store his magic. Every day is predictable—at least, until Cyfrin’s manner and experiments take an inexplicable turn. Now Aurelia’s biggest challenge is convincing her fellow prisoner—the only mother she’s ever known—that she’s strong enough to handle the truth behind the enchanter’s strange behavior. The trouble is, she’ll first need to convince herself.
Prince Amell might be known for his restlessness, but he’s grown out of his childish dreams of heroics…mostly. When a break out occurs at the prison containing all the continent’s criminal magic-users, he’s eager to join the manhunt. Little does he expect that, with the somewhat perplexing help of some dragons, he’ll find something else entirely, lying hidden in the heart of his kingdom.
But the magic that holds Aurelia and her mother captive is like nothing Amell has seen before, and his failure to rescue them shows how far he actually is from the hero of his childhood fantasies. Both Aurelia and Amell will have to find a strength they didn’t know they had in order to overcome the dark schemes in which Aurelia has played an unwilling part. And if they fail, more futures than hers will be lost to the man who stole her past.
409 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2021
68 people are currently reading
635 people want to read
About the author
Deborah Grace White
44 books354 followersDeborah Grace White was more or less born reading. She grew up on a wide range of books, from classic literature to light-hearted romps. Her love of fantasy was inevitable from the time her father read the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy to her and her siblings when she was four years old.
The love of reading has traveled with her unchanged across multiple continents, and carried her from her own childhood all the way to having children of her own.
But if reading is like looking through a window into a magical and beautiful world, beginning to write her own stories was like discovering she could open that window and climb right out into fantasyland.
Now she gets to live that childhood dream amidst the fun and chaos of life with her husband and their four kids.
Visit Deborah at her website: http://deborahgracewhite.com
Or follow her on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/DeborahGrace...
Or Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deborahgrac...
The love of reading has traveled with her unchanged across multiple continents, and carried her from her own childhood all the way to having children of her own.
But if reading is like looking through a window into a magical and beautiful world, beginning to write her own stories was like discovering she could open that window and climb right out into fantasyland.
Now she gets to live that childhood dream amidst the fun and chaos of life with her husband and their four kids.
Visit Deborah at her website: http://deborahgracewhite.com
Or follow her on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/DeborahGrace...
Or Instagram https://www.instagram.com/deborahgrac...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
November 26, 2024
4 stars ✨
Ever since finishing the first book in this series and snooping to see who the next books would be about, I’ve been so excited to finally read this one! (Okay, it’s been two weeks since I snooped, but still. Very excited to read this book!) It went by really fast and I flew through this book for the answers, reveals, and reunions. I was say (once again) that I wish the ending was a bit longer but that’s just me wanting more teary eyed reunions on page. 🥹
I didn’t quite understand the magic parts towards the end there but that was truly my brain singsonging “magic la la la okay sure — oooh! cute romance! 🥰🥰🥰” while trying to reading those parts. The villain of this book made my gag reflex work bleh 🤢 and I was glad to see Aurelia stand up for herself. Maybe not my new favorite of the series, but this series has had some really great books! Hard to believe there’s only one left for me now to read 😅🥲
(TW/CW: potential/planned grooming by the villain)
Main Content-
Magic is a huge part of this book because of Aurelia being trapped by an evil enchanter who is trying to pour his magic into her like a vessel to be used at another time (some believe this could kill a human like it killed the animals he first experimented with); We see lots of magic because of this and other elements; In this world, magic is not good or bad as it depends on the person’s intentions and not everyone has the ability to control or use magic; Curses are enacted as well as magic keeping others from speaking about things they’ve seen; A magic show-down at the end with magic and items flying everywhere; Many mentions of magic, curses, enchanters, and other such topics are also often discussed.
No major language, instead phrases for the world like “dragon’s flame” and “how in dragon’s flame” are exclaimed; Sarcasm & Eye rolling.
In the prologue, we see the point of view of Aurelia’s mother and how her and her husband do not have a loving relationship plus the start of her extreme grief when she finds out about Aurelia; Aurelia has a flashback to when she found out Mama Gail wasn’t her real mother & Mama Gail says she’s real and so is her love for Aurelia; Aurelia has a moment where she wants to keep a secret from Mama Gail since she is keeping secrets (for Aurelia’s own good) from her; Amell has glass of wine at a dinner with his family; Amell lies to his guard; Eavesdropping.
Being shot, fighting, injuries, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to a few sentences); Many mentions of a prison for enchanters that committed crimes, the prisoners, a prison break, attacks, & dangers; Mentions of murders & the possibility of murders (including of a child); Mentions of thieves, stealing, crimes, & criminals; Mentions of the villain using animals for his experiments (which all died) and then wanting to use a child (which caused him to get kicked out of the Enchanter’s Guild but he did it anyway); Mentions of threats (including of harming or killing a loved one); Mentions of being shot, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of eavesdropping; A few mentions of wine & drinking.
1 hand kiss,
1 kiss with no details,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
2 kiss lasting a few sentences;
Remembering kisses (up to a couple sentences); Staring at lips; Wanting to kiss, embrace, & touch;
Touches, Embraces, Nearness, Warmth, Flutters, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Blushes.
The villain touches Aurelia’s hair and midriff when doing the magic storing, the latter shocks Aurelia and makes her uncomfortable; *Spoiler about the villain’s intent* ; Amell’s sister makes negative comments on her appearance & we also see two guards talk badly about her appearance in the bonus chapter (on the author’s website); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of flirting & jealousy.
Ever since finishing the first book in this series and snooping to see who the next books would be about, I’ve been so excited to finally read this one! (Okay, it’s been two weeks since I snooped, but still. Very excited to read this book!) It went by really fast and I flew through this book for the answers, reveals, and reunions. I was say (once again) that I wish the ending was a bit longer but that’s just me wanting more teary eyed reunions on page. 🥹
I didn’t quite understand the magic parts towards the end there but that was truly my brain singsonging “magic la la la okay sure — oooh! cute romance! 🥰🥰🥰” while trying to reading those parts. The villain of this book made my gag reflex work bleh 🤢 and I was glad to see Aurelia stand up for herself. Maybe not my new favorite of the series, but this series has had some really great books! Hard to believe there’s only one left for me now to read 😅🥲
(TW/CW: potential/planned grooming by the villain)
Main Content-
Magic is a huge part of this book because of Aurelia being trapped by an evil enchanter who is trying to pour his magic into her like a vessel to be used at another time (some believe this could kill a human like it killed the animals he first experimented with); We see lots of magic because of this and other elements; In this world, magic is not good or bad as it depends on the person’s intentions and not everyone has the ability to control or use magic; Curses are enacted as well as magic keeping others from speaking about things they’ve seen; A magic show-down at the end with magic and items flying everywhere; Many mentions of magic, curses, enchanters, and other such topics are also often discussed.
No major language, instead phrases for the world like “dragon’s flame” and “how in dragon’s flame” are exclaimed; Sarcasm & Eye rolling.
In the prologue, we see the point of view of Aurelia’s mother and how her and her husband do not have a loving relationship plus the start of her extreme grief when she finds out about Aurelia; Aurelia has a flashback to when she found out Mama Gail wasn’t her real mother & Mama Gail says she’s real and so is her love for Aurelia; Aurelia has a moment where she wants to keep a secret from Mama Gail since she is keeping secrets (for Aurelia’s own good) from her; Amell has glass of wine at a dinner with his family; Amell lies to his guard; Eavesdropping.
Being shot, fighting, injuries, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to a few sentences); Many mentions of a prison for enchanters that committed crimes, the prisoners, a prison break, attacks, & dangers; Mentions of murders & the possibility of murders (including of a child); Mentions of thieves, stealing, crimes, & criminals; Mentions of the villain using animals for his experiments (which all died) and then wanting to use a child (which caused him to get kicked out of the Enchanter’s Guild but he did it anyway); Mentions of threats (including of harming or killing a loved one); Mentions of being shot, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of eavesdropping; A few mentions of wine & drinking.
1 hand kiss,
1 kiss with no details,
1 kiss lasting a couple sentences,
2 kiss lasting a few sentences;
Remembering kisses (up to a couple sentences); Staring at lips; Wanting to kiss, embrace, & touch;
Touches, Embraces, Nearness, Warmth, Flutters, Smelling, & Noticing (up to a few sentences); Blushes.
The villain touches Aurelia’s hair and midriff when doing the magic storing, the latter shocks Aurelia and makes her uncomfortable; *Spoiler about the villain’s intent* ; Amell’s sister makes negative comments on her appearance & we also see two guards talk badly about her appearance in the bonus chapter (on the author’s website); Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of flirting & jealousy.
January 1, 2025
Another great book in this series! This one is a Rapunzel retelling (with a few hints of Rumpelstiltskin thrown in), and I loved the twists on it! I loved that the Rapunzel character gets a true mother figure who is also a captive so she isn't completely alone. She stands up to her captor and learns to fight back the best way she can.
Amell finally gets his time to shine in this book, and he is a great character. Tora and Furn were my favorites. Wish we could have seen a bit more of them, but that's just me being selfish because they were just side characters, lol.
I can't wait for the next book!
Amell finally gets his time to shine in this book, and he is a great character. Tora and Furn were my favorites. Wish we could have seen a bit more of them, but that's just me being selfish because they were just side characters, lol.
I can't wait for the next book!
June 20, 2025
Sadly, I found this installment lacking compared to the other three. It was much less well-paced, sometimes even rather rambly, repetitive and boring.
While I usually praised how creative the author reimagines the fairytales, here she recycles some of her own ideas (eg. the cloak which lets him break through an enchantment)
Then she also slightly opens up a plot hole: we get told that Amell cannot be restrained by magic in his own kingdom, because he is the heir to the throne and is therefore magically bound to his kingdom. Not even dragons should cast magic strong enough to restrain him, but just a few books ago Azalea’s curse kept her bound to her sleep, making it impossible to leave the city too far. How does that make sense? It just gets put in here and I think for once, this wasn’t well thought out. Especially, because it then does not seem to have deeper importance for
I also think that while some parts of it were well reimagined, some other parts weren’t. For example, I love how the enchanter renames Aurelia Honeysuckle, because he stole her as ‘payment’ for the honeysuckles Aurelia’s mother picked from his garden. Just like in the original fairytale Rapunzel is named after the salad that her mother had craved and her father then stole from the sorceress’ garden.
Then, some other aspects seem to have been included just because they were in the fairytale, but the other didn’t know what to do with them. Amell gets blinded like the prince in the original then generally: in the later half of the book, everything is a little too quickly resolved in comparison with how slowly the first half moved.
One thing I liked again: a very well done narrative arch around tears
But: I think it was a little diminished, because it got easily lost in all the other stuff and the repetition and also quite unnecessary back and forth. I actually only realized what happened, when the characters themselves pointed it out! That really made it less impactful!
I do like the characters here, even though some of the side characters (especially Tora), seem rather one-note.
Amell is so ADHD-coded, too be honest. Or at least, how society mostly looks upon people with ADHD. He has “too much energy” and is rather flighty, always running headfirst into things, cannot sit still, sometimes a little forgetful. In the beginning it was slightly exasperating, but over time he became somewhat endearing. And he does grow as a character, too!
At some points I would have called this book a terrible example of purist culture. Like, there are definite signs the enchanter tries to groom Aurelia. But the mother figure, Mother Gail, can’t even put it into words because she finds it so terrible! Not only were those scenes awfully repetitive and boring me the f out, because they were filled with utter nothing, but I also rolled my eyes so hard, because “you cannot warn her off his advances in case you even mention anything uncouth could ruin her purity immediately”! That is everything wrong with people so terribly obsessed with chastity! How should Aurelia know how to avoid bad things if she doesn’t even know about them (yes, this is me ranting about missing sex-ed in a “clean” romantasy, but…you really brought yourself here; why even bring the grooming up then?)
I know that it was framed as “not ideal”, because it literally causes the climax of the story, but still…
All in all: might actually be the worst of the books in this series. It still was okay, it just really pales in comparision to the previous three installments
But: I am now very curious of the last installment as there seems to be a bigger narration weaving through all installments, that only got gradually unveiled, so I’m hoping for a grand conclusion!
While I usually praised how creative the author reimagines the fairytales, here she recycles some of her own ideas (eg. the cloak which lets him break through an enchantment)
Then she also slightly opens up a plot hole: we get told that Amell cannot be restrained by magic in his own kingdom, because he is the heir to the throne and is therefore magically bound to his kingdom. Not even dragons should cast magic strong enough to restrain him, but just a few books ago Azalea’s curse kept her bound to her sleep, making it impossible to leave the city too far. How does that make sense? It just gets put in here and I think for once, this wasn’t well thought out. Especially, because it then does not seem to have deeper importance for
I also think that while some parts of it were well reimagined, some other parts weren’t. For example, I love how the enchanter renames Aurelia Honeysuckle, because he stole her as ‘payment’ for the honeysuckles Aurelia’s mother picked from his garden. Just like in the original fairytale Rapunzel is named after the salad that her mother had craved and her father then stole from the sorceress’ garden.
Then, some other aspects seem to have been included just because they were in the fairytale, but the other didn’t know what to do with them. Amell gets blinded like the prince in the original then generally: in the later half of the book, everything is a little too quickly resolved in comparison with how slowly the first half moved.
One thing I liked again: a very well done narrative arch around tears
But: I think it was a little diminished, because it got easily lost in all the other stuff and the repetition and also quite unnecessary back and forth. I actually only realized what happened, when the characters themselves pointed it out! That really made it less impactful!
I do like the characters here, even though some of the side characters (especially Tora), seem rather one-note.
Amell is so ADHD-coded, too be honest. Or at least, how society mostly looks upon people with ADHD. He has “too much energy” and is rather flighty, always running headfirst into things, cannot sit still, sometimes a little forgetful. In the beginning it was slightly exasperating, but over time he became somewhat endearing. And he does grow as a character, too!
At some points I would have called this book a terrible example of purist culture. Like, there are definite signs the enchanter tries to groom Aurelia. But the mother figure, Mother Gail, can’t even put it into words because she finds it so terrible! Not only were those scenes awfully repetitive and boring me the f out, because they were filled with utter nothing, but I also rolled my eyes so hard, because “you cannot warn her off his advances in case you even mention anything uncouth could ruin her purity immediately”! That is everything wrong with people so terribly obsessed with chastity! How should Aurelia know how to avoid bad things if she doesn’t even know about them (yes, this is me ranting about missing sex-ed in a “clean” romantasy, but…you really brought yourself here; why even bring the grooming up then?)
I know that it was framed as “not ideal”, because it literally causes the climax of the story, but still…
All in all: might actually be the worst of the books in this series. It still was okay, it just really pales in comparision to the previous three installments
But: I am now very curious of the last installment as there seems to be a bigger narration weaving through all installments, that only got gradually unveiled, so I’m hoping for a grand conclusion!
January 8, 2022
This was an interesting take on the Rapunzel fairy tale. The author really made the struggles of the princess trapped in the tower come alive. However, I did find her a little too Mary Sue. I guess some people who are isolated almost their entire lives can develop such niceness. I’d like to hope so anyway, not the trapped in a tower part but the inherent niceness bit. However, the heroine did come across as too good to be true and some of the plot devices were too convenient and on the nose.
I liked the prince, and although his struggle was of a YA kind it was very realistic and believable. He seemed like such a nice kid. I appreciated the clean content and the development of the overall story arc. I’m interested in seeing how the author brings it all to a close. A solid three stars.
I liked the prince, and although his struggle was of a YA kind it was very realistic and believable. He seemed like such a nice kid. I appreciated the clean content and the development of the overall story arc. I’m interested in seeing how the author brings it all to a close. A solid three stars.
October 2, 2022
This was such a sweet retelling of Rapunzel! It was a little slower than the previous books, but I still greatly enjoyed it and loved watching the characters meet for the first time and grow together. I loved Mama Gail and that she was locked in the tower with Aurelia, which was a cool twist I've never seen done before. The way the author worked in the magical hair and everything else Rapunzel into her series and had it connect with the rest of the books and the overarching plot was so good!! The next book is the last one, so we're about to see what's really going on in these kingdoms! XD
Aurelia was so cute and sweet, yet fierce and brave, and I loved her character. I felt her fear and discomfort every time Cyfrin was around, her wonder at the stories Amell told, and her love for Mama Gail. Amell was so fun, and it was nice seeing him grow into the man he needed to be. Also the side romance with two certain characters was really fun to watch lol!
I'm loving this series so much and will definitely read more from this author (which she seems to have a lot out there!!)
Aurelia was so cute and sweet, yet fierce and brave, and I loved her character. I felt her fear and discomfort every time Cyfrin was around, her wonder at the stories Amell told, and her love for Mama Gail. Amell was so fun, and it was nice seeing him grow into the man he needed to be. Also the side romance with two certain characters was really fun to watch lol!
I'm loving this series so much and will definitely read more from this author (which she seems to have a lot out there!!)
January 31, 2022
Content Review:
Language: clean
Romance: clean
Minor scenes of violence. Mentions of seduction.
Recommended for ages 13+
*round of applause*
You rarely see retellings of Rapunzel, so I was intrigued from the start (plus I'm fully hooked on Deborah Grace White). It had such interesting twists but enough of the classic story that you are left in an anxious fit, wishing you could warn the heroes.
I loved how White addressed the "He's the only guy she's ever met, so is it even love?" issue.
The character's romance felt sweet and genuine, and I loved the cameos of prior characters. And the side romance! I live for side romances. They are the donut holes within donuts.
Overall, very well done. I couldn’t put it down! So excited for the final installation, I cannot wait to see where the story goes next. Five Stars!
Recommended for fans of Melanie Cellier, K.M. Shea, Brittany Fichter, and Lucy Tempest
Language: clean
Romance: clean
Minor scenes of violence. Mentions of seduction.
Recommended for ages 13+
*round of applause*
You rarely see retellings of Rapunzel, so I was intrigued from the start (plus I'm fully hooked on Deborah Grace White). It had such interesting twists but enough of the classic story that you are left in an anxious fit, wishing you could warn the heroes.
I loved how White addressed the "He's the only guy she's ever met, so is it even love?" issue.
The character's romance felt sweet and genuine, and I loved the cameos of prior characters. And the side romance! I live for side romances. They are the donut holes within donuts.
Overall, very well done. I couldn’t put it down! So excited for the final installation, I cannot wait to see where the story goes next. Five Stars!
Recommended for fans of Melanie Cellier, K.M. Shea, Brittany Fichter, and Lucy Tempest
February 28, 2025
Content:
Language: None.
Violence: High mild. There is a lot of magic explosion/fight type violence. There are also some cuts and bloody wounds but not graphically described.
Sexual: Mild. There is kissing, hair caresses, hand holding etc.
Triggers: Unwanted romantic advances of a manipulative nature. May trigger anyone who has dealt with the differing levels of sexual abuse. This one is very mild though. I can't explain this without moderate spoilers, so this is the warning for that.
Sooo, this one was hard for me to get through. Rapunzel is a hard fairy tale to retell without going dark and toxic for multiple reasons. This version upped the ante a bit for me by making the abductor male instead of an old woman, hence the creeper factor increased.
While the story and characters were great, I just got a bit mired in the obvious side plot of the sociopath enchanter VERY creepy. Again, the author didn't cross any lines, but the fact it was haunting the pages like a ghost and nobody would explain anything to Aurelia really disturbed me.
I did, however, really appreciate Aurelia's character for being both naive, yet self aware. She wasn't portrayed as being unintelligent, she simply didn't have experience to inform some of her conclusions, but she still was able to figure things out despite being trapped in a tower her whole life. The way she found her strength and how she fought against Cyfrin was inspiring, and a lot more true to life than the typical story of the tough warrior girl stories that are rampant in fantasy nowadays. Sometimes, the best way to fight, is to be defiant in the ways you can be, and stand tall.
Amell's character arc was great. I loved that he got humbled, and yet also built up confidence as well, and became more grounded as the story progressed. His growth was incredible and I enjoyed seeing him change yet still be himself. As a side note, his obliviousness when it came to Tora was hilarious to me.
This was a good story, but it personally isn't one I'll return to for the above stated themes in it, being rather touchy for me personally. It was well crafted and lovely, with lots of clever nods to the fairy tale.
AUDIOBOOK
I did listen to the audio twice, Rachel Beresford does a good job, but sometimes I did struggle to tell if a character was male/female because she forgot to voice change. I'll skip this one in future though, I still struggle with the story (nothing against the writing or narration) but I couldn't stand to skip around so listened both times on my re-read through the series. But I think I'm okay to be non-linear now. Haha.
Language: None.
Violence: High mild. There is a lot of magic explosion/fight type violence. There are also some cuts and bloody wounds but not graphically described.
Sexual: Mild. There is kissing, hair caresses, hand holding etc.
Triggers: Unwanted romantic advances of a manipulative nature. May trigger anyone who has dealt with the differing levels of sexual abuse. This one is very mild though. I can't explain this without moderate spoilers, so this is the warning for that.
Sooo, this one was hard for me to get through. Rapunzel is a hard fairy tale to retell without going dark and toxic for multiple reasons. This version upped the ante a bit for me by making the abductor male instead of an old woman, hence the creeper factor increased.
While the story and characters were great, I just got a bit mired in the obvious side plot of the sociopath enchanter VERY creepy. Again, the author didn't cross any lines, but the fact it was haunting the pages like a ghost and nobody would explain anything to Aurelia really disturbed me.
I did, however, really appreciate Aurelia's character for being both naive, yet self aware. She wasn't portrayed as being unintelligent, she simply didn't have experience to inform some of her conclusions, but she still was able to figure things out despite being trapped in a tower her whole life. The way she found her strength and how she fought against Cyfrin was inspiring, and a lot more true to life than the typical story of the tough warrior girl stories that are rampant in fantasy nowadays. Sometimes, the best way to fight, is to be defiant in the ways you can be, and stand tall.
Amell's character arc was great. I loved that he got humbled, and yet also built up confidence as well, and became more grounded as the story progressed. His growth was incredible and I enjoyed seeing him change yet still be himself. As a side note, his obliviousness when it came to Tora was hilarious to me.
This was a good story, but it personally isn't one I'll return to for the above stated themes in it, being rather touchy for me personally. It was well crafted and lovely, with lots of clever nods to the fairy tale.
AUDIOBOOK
I did listen to the audio twice, Rachel Beresford does a good job, but sometimes I did struggle to tell if a character was male/female because she forgot to voice change. I'll skip this one in future though, I still struggle with the story (nothing against the writing or narration) but I couldn't stand to skip around so listened both times on my re-read through the series. But I think I'm okay to be non-linear now. Haha.
June 12, 2022
Generally good. I'm starting to get a bit tired of how long the author can wax poetic on describing everyone's conflicting feelings.
March 7, 2022
Not quite...
I was hoping to like this book a much as I've liked the last three volumes, but this one has some of the same issues that bothered me in the first volume of the series. Although this book didn't lean as heavily on the Disney version, there were still enough similarities for me to notice.
The villain and his magical plotting was the most interesting part of the story. Although I liked Amell (more than I expected, after the way he's previously been painted!), I had trouble believing that he could actually sneak away as much as he managed to. And the subplot with Tora was mostly annoying. I did like that Aurelia had a mother figure, and I was glad that this loose thread from the first book was finally tied up.
In short, I mostly enjoyed the story, but at times it annoyed me and I had difficulty getting invested in it. Hence, only three stars for this one.
I was hoping to like this book a much as I've liked the last three volumes, but this one has some of the same issues that bothered me in the first volume of the series. Although this book didn't lean as heavily on the Disney version, there were still enough similarities for me to notice.
The villain and his magical plotting was the most interesting part of the story. Although I liked Amell (more than I expected, after the way he's previously been painted!), I had trouble believing that he could actually sneak away as much as he managed to. And the subplot with Tora was mostly annoying. I did like that Aurelia had a mother figure, and I was glad that this loose thread from the first book was finally tied up.
In short, I mostly enjoyed the story, but at times it annoyed me and I had difficulty getting invested in it. Hence, only three stars for this one.
February 16, 2025
This is a great addition to the series. The beginning is a bit slower than the others and perhaps less engaging, but it picks up as it goes. The last third of the book becomes quite intense and I had a hard time putting it down.
This is a a Rapunzel retelling and well written. Prince Amell is a fun character seen regularly throughout the series, and Aureila is the perfect damsel in distress. Their romance is sweet and believable, given each of their personalities.
This can be read as a standalone, but the story and characters cross over throughout the rest of the series, so I’d recommend starting at the beginning.
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. The romance is clean with only a few chaste kisses. There is a lot of magic. There is no mention of faith or God.
This is a a Rapunzel retelling and well written. Prince Amell is a fun character seen regularly throughout the series, and Aureila is the perfect damsel in distress. Their romance is sweet and believable, given each of their personalities.
This can be read as a standalone, but the story and characters cross over throughout the rest of the series, so I’d recommend starting at the beginning.
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. The romance is clean with only a few chaste kisses. There is a lot of magic. There is no mention of faith or God.
January 28, 2022
I don’t know what it was with this one but it took me a long time to read. I really didn’t connect with the MCs. It was nice that Amell had some growth but he was quite immature in the beginning. Contains: a couple uses of mild language, kisses, some fighting.
January 19, 2022
Good story
The story was good and the main characters likeable. However, it moved a little slow. The ending was a good one.
The story was good and the main characters likeable. However, it moved a little slow. The ending was a good one.
June 1, 2025
Such a good retelling!
April 28, 2025
Is it woke?
Not at all.
Is it good?
White continues to entertain and enthrall in a delightful setting with stunning charactersisation.
Is it appropriate for your children?
'Kingdom of Locks' is slightly more mature than the previous books in this series. Though there is still no sexual content, swearing, or much violence, there are a few things you should be aware of. Since Aurelia is held captive by a male, there are heavy undertone of rape/sexual assault. This is expressed through the mother's growing concern for her beauty and their captors treatment of her. However, since Aurelia is so naive she is unaware of what this danger is and White cleverly uses this to avoid going into detail here. Aurelia is trying to discover what the danger is for a large portion of the book, but the only thing revealed is that her captor wanted her to kiss him as part of his magic and asks Aurelia to marry her towards the end of the novel.
Similarly, domestic violence and abuse play a small role in the story. Aurelia's mother is severely controlled by her father, but this is only shown in the prologue and is shown to be wrong. The villain is also abusive, but during the novel this changes from holding her captive to trying to manipulate her through 'charm'. Aurelia's mother is always there to point out the dissonance between his words and actions, and this would be good for more mature girls and particularly lovers of romance to witness.
In short: it is appropriate, but there are subtle and off page themes that make this the most mature in the series thus far. 14+
Not at all.
Is it good?
White continues to entertain and enthrall in a delightful setting with stunning charactersisation.
Is it appropriate for your children?
'Kingdom of Locks' is slightly more mature than the previous books in this series. Though there is still no sexual content, swearing, or much violence, there are a few things you should be aware of. Since Aurelia is held captive by a male, there are heavy undertone of rape/sexual assault. This is expressed through the mother's growing concern for her beauty and their captors treatment of her. However, since Aurelia is so naive she is unaware of what this danger is and White cleverly uses this to avoid going into detail here. Aurelia is trying to discover what the danger is for a large portion of the book, but the only thing revealed is that her captor wanted her to kiss him as part of his magic and asks Aurelia to marry her towards the end of the novel.
Similarly, domestic violence and abuse play a small role in the story. Aurelia's mother is severely controlled by her father, but this is only shown in the prologue and is shown to be wrong. The villain is also abusive, but during the novel this changes from holding her captive to trying to manipulate her through 'charm'. Aurelia's mother is always there to point out the dissonance between his words and actions, and this would be good for more mature girls and particularly lovers of romance to witness.
In short: it is appropriate, but there are subtle and off page themes that make this the most mature in the series thus far. 14+
January 9, 2023
This was honestly my least favorite of the series. There were some interesting developments. For example the previous book hinted at a wider conspiracy behind the curses but if it hadn't been mentioned I honestly wouldn't have thought that.
Locks builds on that which is nice because it really felt a bit out of of the blue coming so late in the series and it definitely needed to be addressed more here or it wouldn't have lined up well with the final book(which needed the build up of that idea that takes place in this book).
Aurelia is a nice character and I enjoyed her mother as well. Cyfrin was a suitably villainous villain. I have never cared much for Amell and this really didn't help. It did seem like he was tamed down a bit. Almost like the Amell we've seen got watered down to be palatable as a main character. But he still wasn't my favorite.
I kind of felt like the plot was stagnant a lot. Amell is visiting the tower and not much is happening but some chatting. And he goes and has no new ideas for how to help. Aurelia meanwhile is having the same creepy encounters with Cyfrin who is at least 20 years her senior for context on exactly how creepy it got. The placing a hand on her stomach while stroking her hair to move power was just nauseating. And it really wouldn't have mattered at that point if
I know Aurelia has been trapped in the tower her whole life but there was just a level of naïve in that whole situation that got to be annoying. Which meant I wish she would've figured it out or someone had told her.
So it wasn't a bad story. It just wasn't the one in the series that intrigued me very much.
Locks builds on that which is nice because it really felt a bit out of of the blue coming so late in the series and it definitely needed to be addressed more here or it wouldn't have lined up well with the final book(which needed the build up of that idea that takes place in this book).
Aurelia is a nice character and I enjoyed her mother as well. Cyfrin was a suitably villainous villain. I have never cared much for Amell and this really didn't help. It did seem like he was tamed down a bit. Almost like the Amell we've seen got watered down to be palatable as a main character. But he still wasn't my favorite.
I kind of felt like the plot was stagnant a lot. Amell is visiting the tower and not much is happening but some chatting. And he goes and has no new ideas for how to help. Aurelia meanwhile is having the same creepy encounters with Cyfrin who is at least 20 years her senior for context on exactly how creepy it got. The placing a hand on her stomach while stroking her hair to move power was just nauseating. And it really wouldn't have mattered at that point if
I know Aurelia has been trapped in the tower her whole life but there was just a level of naïve in that whole situation that got to be annoying. Which meant I wish she would've figured it out or someone had told her.
So it wasn't a bad story. It just wasn't the one in the series that intrigued me very much.
December 29, 2021
Finally - Prince Amell's story!
My rating is 4.5 stars
Amell and Aurelia's story, Kingdom of Locks, was enchanting! Interspersing magic, adventure, romance, and dragons, author Deborah Grace White created a lovely twist on the Rapunzel story with the unique perspective I've come to appreciate from her.
Prince Amell has shown up in several Kingdom Tales stories, and I was charmed by him from the start. This eager, young, romantic prince had hungered for adventure and dreams of rescuing a damsel in distress, challenging the patience of his parents as he gallivanted about searching for the fulfillment of his dreams.
While written for a young adult audience, Kingdom of Locks will enchant young and old alike. I recommend it for all lovers of romantic fantasy.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
My rating is 4.5 stars
Amell and Aurelia's story, Kingdom of Locks, was enchanting! Interspersing magic, adventure, romance, and dragons, author Deborah Grace White created a lovely twist on the Rapunzel story with the unique perspective I've come to appreciate from her.
Prince Amell has shown up in several Kingdom Tales stories, and I was charmed by him from the start. This eager, young, romantic prince had hungered for adventure and dreams of rescuing a damsel in distress, challenging the patience of his parents as he gallivanted about searching for the fulfillment of his dreams.
While written for a young adult audience, Kingdom of Locks will enchant young and old alike. I recommend it for all lovers of romantic fantasy.
Originally Reviewed on Among The Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
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September 2, 2025
💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚
Oh my goodness! This was such a sweet Rapunzel retelling and I loved it! I loved the uniqueness of it and all of the twists! The cover is also so pretty! Aurelia is a lovely and strong character! She is one of my favorite characters of this series! I loved how her tears could heal! Amell is great! He is strong, determined, and brave! I loved Aurelia and Amell’s love story! It was the sweetest! They’re so perfect for each other! Mama Gail is such a sweetheart! I loved the twist with her! Tora is a character and I loved her and Amell’s sibling banter! It was delightful! This is one of my favorite Rapunzel retellings and I highly recommend it! 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I can’t wait to read the last book in this series!
Quote that I liked:
💚 "Like I'm the one he wants to protect, not you," Tora shot at him. Amell blinked, processing this. "He was certainly very jumpy about your safety the time you came to the prison with us." He frowned. "But Tora, you can't steal my guard and best friend away from me. He's off limits!" 🤣
💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚
Oh my goodness! This was such a sweet Rapunzel retelling and I loved it! I loved the uniqueness of it and all of the twists! The cover is also so pretty! Aurelia is a lovely and strong character! She is one of my favorite characters of this series! I loved how her tears could heal! Amell is great! He is strong, determined, and brave! I loved Aurelia and Amell’s love story! It was the sweetest! They’re so perfect for each other! Mama Gail is such a sweetheart! I loved the twist with her! Tora is a character and I loved her and Amell’s sibling banter! It was delightful! This is one of my favorite Rapunzel retellings and I highly recommend it! 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I can’t wait to read the last book in this series!
Quote that I liked:
💚 "Like I'm the one he wants to protect, not you," Tora shot at him. Amell blinked, processing this. "He was certainly very jumpy about your safety the time you came to the prison with us." He frowned. "But Tora, you can't steal my guard and best friend away from me. He's off limits!" 🤣
💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚
February 5, 2022
What an adventurous and heart warming retelling of Rapunzel. I truly enjoyed seeing Prince Amell grow into a mature young man, and his character growth was well thought out. Aurelia and her true identity was such a sweet twist to the world of Solstice, and her character was truly wonderful to behold. Being that Rapunzel does not get retold very often ( not much to retell about a girl stuck in a tower ) this addition to the series was superb. Plenty of original details from the fairytale and plenty of story related to the ongoing world of Solstice’s deeper problems. I am very excited for the next book, but a bit sad that it will be the last in the series.
July 12, 2022
Concealment enchantment
I feel like my overall review for this book is concealed in my mind. Maybe I am a bit disappointed it wasn't as spectacular as the previous books so I don't want to acknowledge it. Perhaps I am under an enchantment and can't tell you. (Shrug)
The character development didn't seem as refined in this tale as with previous books in the series. Aurelia falling for the first man she meets is a bit hard to accept, but maybe it could really happen for someone.
I did like that some questions from other stories were answered throughoutthe book. And I was intrigued with segue to the next book.
I feel like my overall review for this book is concealed in my mind. Maybe I am a bit disappointed it wasn't as spectacular as the previous books so I don't want to acknowledge it. Perhaps I am under an enchantment and can't tell you. (Shrug)
The character development didn't seem as refined in this tale as with previous books in the series. Aurelia falling for the first man she meets is a bit hard to accept, but maybe it could really happen for someone.
I did like that some questions from other stories were answered throughoutthe book. And I was intrigued with segue to the next book.
July 24, 2024
I love how Deborah manages to make all these stories standalones but also tie them together. Prince Amell is one of my favorite characters I've ever met, someone excited and full of energy, wanting to be doing good and experiencing adventures. However, of course it gets him into trouble, as those desires often do! I especially loved how this story had so very many happy endings for so many characters.
I really liked how the villain was not who you would originally expect based on the fairytale, and the magic changed the story in many ways, making it basically a whole new story with familiar elements like a friend you haven't seen in a long time.
I really liked how the villain was not who you would originally expect based on the fairytale, and the magic changed the story in many ways, making it basically a whole new story with familiar elements like a friend you haven't seen in a long time.
July 27, 2023
Sweet Retelling
This is a sweet Rapunzel retelling. Both main characters are likeable as are most side characters (especially the guard). The plot was simple compared to book 6, which I actually read first, and there seemed to be more convenient happenings.
Amell was charming, yet much younger than male leads I'm used to reading both in years and behavior. That youthful energy doesn't really change throughout the book, but Amell does show growth.
Aurelia showed a decent balance of emotional intelligence and naivete. She demonstrated growth throughout too.
This is a sweet Rapunzel retelling. Both main characters are likeable as are most side characters (especially the guard). The plot was simple compared to book 6, which I actually read first, and there seemed to be more convenient happenings.
Amell was charming, yet much younger than male leads I'm used to reading both in years and behavior. That youthful energy doesn't really change throughout the book, but Amell does show growth.
Aurelia showed a decent balance of emotional intelligence and naivete. She demonstrated growth throughout too.
February 7, 2022
Clean fantasy romance fairytale retelling.
Book 5 of 6. A Rapunzel retelling. We have a personal favorite of mine since he was first introduced in book 1, Prince Amell. He's a hoot! Our lovely princess Aurelia, is quiet but strong.
This is a story of respect, responsibility, and freedom.
I recommend, just for Amell and his sister Tora, it's a lovely lighthearted read. Plus we see our friendly dragons again. Will be reading the conclusion if the series.
Book 5 of 6. A Rapunzel retelling. We have a personal favorite of mine since he was first introduced in book 1, Prince Amell. He's a hoot! Our lovely princess Aurelia, is quiet but strong.
This is a story of respect, responsibility, and freedom.
I recommend, just for Amell and his sister Tora, it's a lovely lighthearted read. Plus we see our friendly dragons again. Will be reading the conclusion if the series.
March 31, 2022
Lovely, and there is a 6th!
Happily, I’m about to venture into the 6th and final book of this series, having thoroughly enjoyed the 5 previous self-contained but interwoven volumes. After reading t(‘em, I feel a kinship with the characters and the adventures for which resolutions are promised and hinted to be explored in the final story. A stormy night’s (like my night right now!) pleasant occupation! Enjoy!
Happily, I’m about to venture into the 6th and final book of this series, having thoroughly enjoyed the 5 previous self-contained but interwoven volumes. After reading t(‘em, I feel a kinship with the characters and the adventures for which resolutions are promised and hinted to be explored in the final story. A stormy night’s (like my night right now!) pleasant occupation! Enjoy!
July 31, 2025
Trigger warning: mild grooming by middle-aged man toward 17 year old girl
(Nothing sexual happens, but there are veiled concerns about it that occur frequently enough that I lowered my rating of the book and had to skip about the middle third of the book due to how frequently a character is worried about it).
Otherwise it's clean, no language, and an interesting retelling of Rapunzel. I just would have enjoyed and preferred it more without the creepiness.
(Nothing sexual happens, but there are veiled concerns about it that occur frequently enough that I lowered my rating of the book and had to skip about the middle third of the book due to how frequently a character is worried about it).
Otherwise it's clean, no language, and an interesting retelling of Rapunzel. I just would have enjoyed and preferred it more without the creepiness.
December 12, 2025
magically sweet and beautiful
Another dreamy HEA full of magic. It’s such a wonderful retelling of Repunzel but it’s the twists and deviations that make it unique and unpredictable.
And of course, as always Mrs. White doesn’t just create a fairytale. She tackles important topics: a choice and strength to chose the right and good is one addressed here.
Happy reading! So worth turning one more page
Another dreamy HEA full of magic. It’s such a wonderful retelling of Repunzel but it’s the twists and deviations that make it unique and unpredictable.
And of course, as always Mrs. White doesn’t just create a fairytale. She tackles important topics: a choice and strength to chose the right and good is one addressed here.
Happy reading! So worth turning one more page
December 28, 2021
Deborah has done it again!! I have been looking forward to hearing this story ever since hints were dropped in the first book. I loved the romance and the plot. Our friendly dragons returned and were as helpful as ever….I love watching the humans interact. Overall, a simply superb tale as usual. Thanks Deborah!!
January 5, 2022
The Princess in the Tower
Prince Amell finally gets his adventure. His long suffering guard, Sir Furnis, and Amell get drawn into a prison break of magic users and all kinds of shenanigans. Then Amell finds a hidden tower housing a beautiful girl and her mother. And so his biggest adventure begins.
Prince Amell finally gets his adventure. His long suffering guard, Sir Furnis, and Amell get drawn into a prison break of magic users and all kinds of shenanigans. Then Amell finds a hidden tower housing a beautiful girl and her mother. And so his biggest adventure begins.
January 6, 2022
Amell and Aurelia
Such a lovely twist on the Rapunzel story blending dragons and magic and a rambunctious young prince who always dreamed of rescuing a princess only to find one in a tower after all. I enjoyed the growth of each character and the alternating point of view to tell the story. Our villain was truly one you loved to hate.
Such a lovely twist on the Rapunzel story blending dragons and magic and a rambunctious young prince who always dreamed of rescuing a princess only to find one in a tower after all. I enjoyed the growth of each character and the alternating point of view to tell the story. Our villain was truly one you loved to hate.
December 8, 2023
Another Great Addition
I love how all the books are intertwined in a big story among the smaller stories of the royals in Solstice. Great writing, just the occasional blip of the editing. Deborah is a talented lady and I look forward to the next book. Please don't forget to use your local library online presence as well as kindle Amazon services.
I love how all the books are intertwined in a big story among the smaller stories of the royals in Solstice. Great writing, just the occasional blip of the editing. Deborah is a talented lady and I look forward to the next book. Please don't forget to use your local library online presence as well as kindle Amazon services.
October 2, 2024
A Refreshing take on Repunzel
I wasn't sure about this installment at first but it was a lot of fun. I struggled to connect with Amel right away however his personality was very different than the other princes in this world and I found it intriguing. The continuity was very enjoyable and fun.
I wasn't sure about this installment at first but it was a lot of fun. I struggled to connect with Amel right away however his personality was very different than the other princes in this world and I found it intriguing. The continuity was very enjoyable and fun.
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