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Snowflakes and Secrets: A Twisted Tales Novel
A dark, stepbrother retelling of Sleeping Beauty.My life changed forever when my mother died in a tragic skiing accident when I was a child.My aunt was the only person I could rely on, especially after my father had remarried so quickly. She encouraged the darkness in my soul and told me to do two things to honour the memory of my mother.Protect my father and sister. Exact revenge on my stepmother.And who better to use for revenge than my stepbrother Kieran? It seemed simple enough to use him as my weapon of choice.What I didn’t realise is that when you push too hard, eventually something will start to push back.Another tragic accident. An unexpected attraction. A chain of events kickstarted which would once more turn my world on its axis.Had I just been sleepwalking through life, sedated by deceit and half truths?
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2021
10 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Findlay
8 books256 followers𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖𝕤 𝕕𝕒𝕣𝕜. 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖𝕤 𝕤𝕨𝕖𝕖𝕥. 𝕒𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕦𝕟𝕚𝕢𝕦𝕖.
L.J. Findlay is a romance author based in London, UK and has been dreaming up stories for as long as she can remember. Since graduating Liverpool uni, she has moved back to London to start a career in media sales but, in true lockdown style, has found the time to put pen to paper.
Other than writing dark and twisted tales, and confusing her family as to how she has imagined such plotlines, she loves reading other stories and loves a good romance. L.J Findlay also enjoys spending time with her friends and exploring different bars and markets around London. Occasionally, if she’s feeling good, she’ll go to the gym but she’d much rather have a gin. She also loves to travel and see as much of the world as possible.
Thank you for taking a chance on this newbie author! She hopes that you enjoy this story and come back for more.
L.J. Findlay is a romance author based in London, UK and has been dreaming up stories for as long as she can remember. Since graduating Liverpool uni, she has moved back to London to start a career in media sales but, in true lockdown style, has found the time to put pen to paper.
Other than writing dark and twisted tales, and confusing her family as to how she has imagined such plotlines, she loves reading other stories and loves a good romance. L.J Findlay also enjoys spending time with her friends and exploring different bars and markets around London. Occasionally, if she’s feeling good, she’ll go to the gym but she’d much rather have a gin. She also loves to travel and see as much of the world as possible.
Thank you for taking a chance on this newbie author! She hopes that you enjoy this story and come back for more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
May 6, 2023
This is the third book in the Twisted Tales collection and a Sleeping Beauty reimagining. I wish the author have included in her blurb, and not just the authors note, that this is a British English story. I’m not averse to reading non-American authors but there are too many region specific idioms for my liking. Sadly, I don’t think this is an author for me.
In all fairness, finishing the book is a struggle and I find myself skimming from 70% and the only reason I won’t DNF is because I’m curious to know the ‘secret.’ The simplicity of the offending skeleton in the closet is quite disappointing when it’s revealed. There is zero reason for it to cause so many problems and such animosity.
I also feel the author would greatly benefit from American beta readers and a stronger editor. Many sections feel repetitive and others lack clarity, both things get fleshed out by an editor. For example, multiple characters are never completely described and other are not given physical descriptions or proper names until 60% into the book.
❄️set in England
❄️British English & idioms throughout
❄️stepsibling troupe
❄️19yo immature h
❄️24yo equally juvenile H
❄️noncon & dubcon; seemed more DC for me
❄️cheating - the H has a girlfriend for 35-40% of the book
❄️sex on a public beach
❄️somnophilia
❄️forced miscarriage of a secondary character
❄️darkness & mystical/magical references in a non paranormal world
Overall, the main characters come across as juvenile and petulant. Snapping at people, running away from problems, using mocking tones, etc. Then there is the way Aurora and her stepbrother Kieran continually denied their attraction out loud, to everyone, while internally said they desired more than a stepsibling relationship.
I understand it’s frowned upon to date your stepsibling but there is no blood relation. It’s not as scandalous as people would like it to be. The continual talk of it being disgusting, gross, unseemly, and the like was tiresome. And when they did finally come together it was through what others called rape. Never mind that the two engaging in the act considered it kink fulfillment.
But what got me the most is the story’s attempt at trying to hide a characters evil nature under a supposed magical force. I understand spells in worlds where magic exists but this is not one of those worlds. This is a modern day story. Characters who are unable to own their personal choices don’t sit well with me. I’d much prefer a psycho who knows they are doing fucked up things and accepts it.
There are two prominent side characters, Kieran’s cousin Xav and a French nurse named Salomé, that ultimately served no purpose but to hinder the relationship between Aurora and Kieran. The same could be said for Aurora’s father and Kieran’s mother, their presence in the story was simply to be Aurora’s punching bag and an obstacle for the main characters union.
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub
🖤Sugar Wood by Brynn Ford - Hansel and Gretel (MF)
🖤Serpent in White by Nyla K. - The White Snake (MMM+F)
➡️Snowflakes and Secrets by L.J. Findlay - Sleeping Beauty (MF)
🖤Violent Delights: Part of the A Death So Sweet universe by Candace Wondrak - Beauty and the Beast (MF+MFM)
🖤Gilded Cage by C. Lymari - Rumplestiltskin
🖤Obsidian Star by A.J. Wolf - Tinkerbell & Hook (MF)
🖤1/14 - Arabian Nights by Ella Burns - Aladdin
🖤1/28 - Poisoned Throne by Nikita - Snow White
🖤1/30 - Echoes of Silence by Indie Black - The Ugly Duckling
🖤TBD - Lake of Depravity by Bree Porter - Swan Lake
🖤TBD - Frost by Liza James - Snow Queen
In all fairness, finishing the book is a struggle and I find myself skimming from 70% and the only reason I won’t DNF is because I’m curious to know the ‘secret.’ The simplicity of the offending skeleton in the closet is quite disappointing when it’s revealed. There is zero reason for it to cause so many problems and such animosity.
I also feel the author would greatly benefit from American beta readers and a stronger editor. Many sections feel repetitive and others lack clarity, both things get fleshed out by an editor. For example, multiple characters are never completely described and other are not given physical descriptions or proper names until 60% into the book.
❄️set in England
❄️British English & idioms throughout
❄️stepsibling troupe
❄️19yo immature h
❄️24yo equally juvenile H
❄️noncon & dubcon; seemed more DC for me
❄️cheating - the H has a girlfriend for 35-40% of the book
❄️sex on a public beach
❄️somnophilia
❄️forced miscarriage of a secondary character
❄️darkness & mystical/magical references in a non paranormal world
Overall, the main characters come across as juvenile and petulant. Snapping at people, running away from problems, using mocking tones, etc. Then there is the way Aurora and her stepbrother Kieran continually denied their attraction out loud, to everyone, while internally said they desired more than a stepsibling relationship.
I understand it’s frowned upon to date your stepsibling but there is no blood relation. It’s not as scandalous as people would like it to be. The continual talk of it being disgusting, gross, unseemly, and the like was tiresome. And when they did finally come together it was through what others called rape. Never mind that the two engaging in the act considered it kink fulfillment.
But what got me the most is the story’s attempt at trying to hide a characters evil nature under a supposed magical force. I understand spells in worlds where magic exists but this is not one of those worlds. This is a modern day story. Characters who are unable to own their personal choices don’t sit well with me. I’d much prefer a psycho who knows they are doing fucked up things and accepts it.
There are two prominent side characters, Kieran’s cousin Xav and a French nurse named Salomé, that ultimately served no purpose but to hinder the relationship between Aurora and Kieran. The same could be said for Aurora’s father and Kieran’s mother, their presence in the story was simply to be Aurora’s punching bag and an obstacle for the main characters union.
𝓋𝓍𝒽𝑒𝓍𝓃 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹𝓈
Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub
🖤Sugar Wood by Brynn Ford - Hansel and Gretel (MF)
🖤Serpent in White by Nyla K. - The White Snake (MMM+F)
➡️Snowflakes and Secrets by L.J. Findlay - Sleeping Beauty (MF)
🖤Violent Delights: Part of the A Death So Sweet universe by Candace Wondrak - Beauty and the Beast (MF+MFM)
🖤Gilded Cage by C. Lymari - Rumplestiltskin
🖤Obsidian Star by A.J. Wolf - Tinkerbell & Hook (MF)
🖤1/14 - Arabian Nights by Ella Burns - Aladdin
🖤1/28 - Poisoned Throne by Nikita - Snow White
🖤1/30 - Echoes of Silence by Indie Black - The Ugly Duckling
🖤TBD - Lake of Depravity by Bree Porter - Swan Lake
🖤TBD - Frost by Liza James - Snow Queen
November 28, 2021
We have a young girl Aurora who is being manipulated by her aunt. The aunt is trying to get the young girl to seek revenge on her father and stepmother as revenge for the death of the young girls mom. The aunts sister.
It’s pretty sick shit like getting the stepmom to slip and fall in the hopes of her having a miscarriage, which she did. And did not have children after that horrific incident.
The father and stepmother had absolutely no backbone when it came to the shit that Aurora put them through.
Aurora grows up and continues to be manipulative towards her stepmother and step brother, Kieran. Ends up drugging the step brother and having sex with him.
“Whether he was a willing participant at the time or not, I knew he would be eventually.”
I get where the author was trying to go with this character. Making this a vengeance seeking psychopath female. It started out pretty interesting.
I feel like if she kept up with Aurora being the Manipulative little psychopath that she was throughout the entire book, it would’ve been hell of a lot better than what it ended up being..
She truly believed that the stepmother had something to do with the death of her mother. And she wanted to make her step mom‘s life hell, her dad‘s life hell, and even mess with her stepbrother.
However this book fell completely flat for me. The characters changed persona and did a complete back flip multiple times. Multiple personalities. All the sudden we have the step brother that was now liking the games that his stepsister was playing.
The author was trying to push the taboo aspect way too fucking much. The amount of times I had to read that they were five years apart and stepsiblings made me roll my eyes multiple times.
The dialogue was just cringe worthy. It wasn’t hot. It just did not work at all.
“Yes, little stepsister. Coat my dick in your cream. Show us both I’m the only one who can fuck you like this.”
The master manipulators ended up fading into different characters and everything was all good and dandy at the end of the book. I just did not click with this whole story. It was honestly a hot mess.
1/5
It’s pretty sick shit like getting the stepmom to slip and fall in the hopes of her having a miscarriage, which she did. And did not have children after that horrific incident.
The father and stepmother had absolutely no backbone when it came to the shit that Aurora put them through.
Aurora grows up and continues to be manipulative towards her stepmother and step brother, Kieran. Ends up drugging the step brother and having sex with him.
“Whether he was a willing participant at the time or not, I knew he would be eventually.”
I get where the author was trying to go with this character. Making this a vengeance seeking psychopath female. It started out pretty interesting.
I feel like if she kept up with Aurora being the Manipulative little psychopath that she was throughout the entire book, it would’ve been hell of a lot better than what it ended up being..
She truly believed that the stepmother had something to do with the death of her mother. And she wanted to make her step mom‘s life hell, her dad‘s life hell, and even mess with her stepbrother.
However this book fell completely flat for me. The characters changed persona and did a complete back flip multiple times. Multiple personalities. All the sudden we have the step brother that was now liking the games that his stepsister was playing.
The author was trying to push the taboo aspect way too fucking much. The amount of times I had to read that they were five years apart and stepsiblings made me roll my eyes multiple times.
The dialogue was just cringe worthy. It wasn’t hot. It just did not work at all.
“Yes, little stepsister. Coat my dick in your cream. Show us both I’m the only one who can fuck you like this.”
The master manipulators ended up fading into different characters and everything was all good and dandy at the end of the book. I just did not click with this whole story. It was honestly a hot mess.
1/5
November 27, 2021
It was an interesting retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty fairytale. The author did a great job giving nods to characters and plot points of the classic tale while also making it their own. Agreed but you were thrown right into the story and it’s pretty consistent throughout. There’s drama, romance, a few darker themes and a bit of a mystery that you just have to know the answer to.
I think it had a lot of potential but some things fell a little short for me. I found it hard to connect to the characters. Although the story was told from the point of view of the female and male main character, I wasn’t sure about how I felt about either of them. That could just be me though. As well, there was a pretty big build up for some secrets and I feel like I was expecting a little bit more in terms of the reveal and its affects on the characters. Again, that is probably just me.
I think this was a good and original retelling and it’s a quick read. For those who enjoy the stepsibling trope with some dubious scenes then this is perfect.
3.5/5
I think it had a lot of potential but some things fell a little short for me. I found it hard to connect to the characters. Although the story was told from the point of view of the female and male main character, I wasn’t sure about how I felt about either of them. That could just be me though. As well, there was a pretty big build up for some secrets and I feel like I was expecting a little bit more in terms of the reveal and its affects on the characters. Again, that is probably just me.
I think this was a good and original retelling and it’s a quick read. For those who enjoy the stepsibling trope with some dubious scenes then this is perfect.
3.5/5
January 10, 2022
Repetitive, all over the place, with characters with serious multiple personality disorders. I could neither connect with the story, not its characters. This one was not for me 🙈
November 11, 2021
A fast paced, enchanting read with a dash of taboo, a sprinkling of mystery and a helping of steamy scenes.
LJ has a way of drawing you into the world she creates and even though this book is darker than what she has previously wrote, she has not shied away from the taboo topics that come up Snowflakes and Secrets. I am all for it and hope to read more in the future.
Aurora is a fascinating character to say the least, out for revenge she will manipulate, twist the truth and use her body to get what she wants. Rora does some very dishonourable things and I found this refreshing as it is usually just the male characters that do this.
Kieran is keeping secrets of his own and when the truth is finally out things escalate in ways you wouldn't expect. From the beginning I thought he was the sensible one that would bring Aurora down from her high horse, but boy was I wrong when he turned around and done some questionable things himself!
LJ has a way of drawing you into the world she creates and even though this book is darker than what she has previously wrote, she has not shied away from the taboo topics that come up Snowflakes and Secrets. I am all for it and hope to read more in the future.
Aurora is a fascinating character to say the least, out for revenge she will manipulate, twist the truth and use her body to get what she wants. Rora does some very dishonourable things and I found this refreshing as it is usually just the male characters that do this.
Kieran is keeping secrets of his own and when the truth is finally out things escalate in ways you wouldn't expect. From the beginning I thought he was the sensible one that would bring Aurora down from her high horse, but boy was I wrong when he turned around and done some questionable things himself!
November 8, 2021
Kieran and Aurora are one hell of a dark and twisted ride. And my little black heart is all for it!
Manipulative, angry, and revenge-driven, Aurora is quite an intriguing FMC. Some of her decisions are so cringy, I questioned how things would ever work out.
With the amount of secrets and lies, these two have it rough, but can’t deny the chemistry they exude between each other. Their romance is unconventional and messy…but it’s them.
LJ had me on the edge of my seat with this one!
Manipulative, angry, and revenge-driven, Aurora is quite an intriguing FMC. Some of her decisions are so cringy, I questioned how things would ever work out.
With the amount of secrets and lies, these two have it rough, but can’t deny the chemistry they exude between each other. Their romance is unconventional and messy…but it’s them.
LJ had me on the edge of my seat with this one!
November 7, 2021
A dark twisted retelling of sleeping beauty - I was instantly in when I heard that!
Aurora and Kieran are stepsiblings but have an undeniable bond to each other. Aurora is one hell of a character, she's twisted, has this darkness that runs through her and I loved that about her character. She's not your typical good girl, she does a lot of VERY questionable things. Kieran is the older sibling and the one who seems to be more sensible than Aurora, but this is a twisted tale so he doesn't stay sensible for very long.
There's so many twists in this book, that will definitely keep you on your toes! This is the darkest book that L.J Findlay has done to date - and I am SO here for it!
Aurora and Kieran are stepsiblings but have an undeniable bond to each other. Aurora is one hell of a character, she's twisted, has this darkness that runs through her and I loved that about her character. She's not your typical good girl, she does a lot of VERY questionable things. Kieran is the older sibling and the one who seems to be more sensible than Aurora, but this is a twisted tale so he doesn't stay sensible for very long.
There's so many twists in this book, that will definitely keep you on your toes! This is the darkest book that L.J Findlay has done to date - and I am SO here for it!
November 27, 2021
3.5~4 ★
Ever since I first heard about this book I have been so intrigued with the whole concept of the heroine being the "bad" one in the story, that's not something I usually see and I'm all for reading books that surprise me. And after finishing it I can say that this book wasn't similar to anything I read before and I like that.
Snowflakes and Secrets it's twisted, messy, entertaining, different...It's fast paced and full of secrets. The characters put you through a roller coaster of emotions and I had a love/hate relationship with most of them lol. You think someone is the villain and then you are like ohh wait, what just happened?! This story and characters have a lot of layers and let's just say no one is really the hero.
Reading this book there were things I loved like how surprising and different it was, it pushed some boundaries and I was here for it. But I did feel like sometimes it was too fast paced, things and time moved really quickly and sometimes it was hard for me to connect because of that. Some actions frustrated me because I felt like they couldn't see what was right in front of them which just led to some unnecessary drama. But overall this was an entertaining book and I recommend you give it a try if you are after something different.
Ever since I first heard about this book I have been so intrigued with the whole concept of the heroine being the "bad" one in the story, that's not something I usually see and I'm all for reading books that surprise me. And after finishing it I can say that this book wasn't similar to anything I read before and I like that.
Snowflakes and Secrets it's twisted, messy, entertaining, different...It's fast paced and full of secrets. The characters put you through a roller coaster of emotions and I had a love/hate relationship with most of them lol. You think someone is the villain and then you are like ohh wait, what just happened?! This story and characters have a lot of layers and let's just say no one is really the hero.
Reading this book there were things I loved like how surprising and different it was, it pushed some boundaries and I was here for it. But I did feel like sometimes it was too fast paced, things and time moved really quickly and sometimes it was hard for me to connect because of that. Some actions frustrated me because I felt like they couldn't see what was right in front of them which just led to some unnecessary drama. But overall this was an entertaining book and I recommend you give it a try if you are after something different.
November 25, 2021
Oh God. This book really has me thinking hard because I don’t know how I feel about it…
Aurora and Kieran are step-siblings (I have absolutely no problem with this trope) and what I’d say is enemies to lovers. Aurora blames her dad and Kieran’s mother for the death of her own mom. Kieran has always tried to avoid Aurora’s advances to him until one night that in involved a few ✨drugs✨
…and another instance where it was Kieran trying to make a move on this girl that took somnophilia to whole other level👀
Though I was at the edge of my seat reading this as my first by L. J. Findlay, Aurora and Kieran’s relationship is based off of dubious consent. I think that would be the main trigger for anyone; it’s not mine but I did feel a bit iffy about it. I suppose it goes with the whole Sleeping Beauty retelling. I didn’t know what to expect, obviously, because I don’t know the author’s writing style. This was a short read and it’s fast-paced.
November 26, 2021
Snowflakes and Secrets is the first story I've read by this author. It's a stepsibling story that plays off of Sleeping Beauty.
Aurora and Kieran have a toxic, messy, dysfunctional relationship and yet they are so hot!
The reason I gave it three stars was because as the secrets portion built up and had me on the edge of my seat to find out what really happened, the reveal seemed lackluster.
Everything else about the story, I enjoyed though. These two were about as dysfunctional and crazy as a couple can get. As I'm reading, I can't help but wonder what what will happen next and what they will do.
**Warning: There are two scenes that could be big triggers, so be warned before reading **
Aurora and Kieran have a toxic, messy, dysfunctional relationship and yet they are so hot!
The reason I gave it three stars was because as the secrets portion built up and had me on the edge of my seat to find out what really happened, the reveal seemed lackluster.
Everything else about the story, I enjoyed though. These two were about as dysfunctional and crazy as a couple can get. As I'm reading, I can't help but wonder what what will happen next and what they will do.
**Warning: There are two scenes that could be big triggers, so be warned before reading **
November 13, 2021
As part of the Twisted Tale Novels, L.J Findlay brings you a modernised yet corrupted version of traditional fairytale, Sleeping Beauty.
Snowflakes and Secrets, a tale between Aurora and Kieran, two step siblings who find love.
Being brought up by lies and deceit, Aurora, a strong, determined yet powerful young woman is finally fed some truth and uses the deadly darkness within her to slay and conquer those who brought misery to her.
Not only protecting herself but also her younger sibling, Aurora uses her evil wrath to bring down the one woman who she has known to cause pain between her and her family, and that’s her step mother.
Going above and beyond to banish Ivy away, Aurora plans her attack on the most important person in Ivy’s life, her son, Kieran.
However, Kieran sees right through Aurora’s plans and attempts to steer away from her, but Aurora’s beauty cannot keep him away. He is captivated by her.
Seeking revenge on Aurora, Kieran realises that he has gone too far when his plan goes wrong, and his emotions get the better of him.
Wanting to fix his error, Kieran tries to show Aurora what she means to him, and what they have despite the reality that they are in.
He is the villain after all, and yet she certainly isn’t the princess.
Snowflakes and Secrets, I thoroughly enjoyed despite it being a dark, twisted and corrupted version of a traditional fairytale.
The story flowed smoothly with so many twists and turns that could not be predicted.
L.J Findlay has certainly blown me away once more with this novel to the point that I could not put the book down.
I was so intrigued and on tender hooks entirely.
I loved both Aurora and Kieran despite their situation. I loved how fierce they both are to protect their families and for what they believed in.
Another captivating masterpiece from the one and only L.J Findlay.
Snowflakes and Secrets, a tale between Aurora and Kieran, two step siblings who find love.
Being brought up by lies and deceit, Aurora, a strong, determined yet powerful young woman is finally fed some truth and uses the deadly darkness within her to slay and conquer those who brought misery to her.
Not only protecting herself but also her younger sibling, Aurora uses her evil wrath to bring down the one woman who she has known to cause pain between her and her family, and that’s her step mother.
Going above and beyond to banish Ivy away, Aurora plans her attack on the most important person in Ivy’s life, her son, Kieran.
However, Kieran sees right through Aurora’s plans and attempts to steer away from her, but Aurora’s beauty cannot keep him away. He is captivated by her.
Seeking revenge on Aurora, Kieran realises that he has gone too far when his plan goes wrong, and his emotions get the better of him.
Wanting to fix his error, Kieran tries to show Aurora what she means to him, and what they have despite the reality that they are in.
He is the villain after all, and yet she certainly isn’t the princess.
Snowflakes and Secrets, I thoroughly enjoyed despite it being a dark, twisted and corrupted version of a traditional fairytale.
The story flowed smoothly with so many twists and turns that could not be predicted.
L.J Findlay has certainly blown me away once more with this novel to the point that I could not put the book down.
I was so intrigued and on tender hooks entirely.
I loved both Aurora and Kieran despite their situation. I loved how fierce they both are to protect their families and for what they believed in.
Another captivating masterpiece from the one and only L.J Findlay.
November 20, 2021
I am living for the darkness in this book! Aurora and Kieran are twisted, yet perfect.
Aurora's life changed drastically when she was younger and has had a manipulative voice whispering in her ear since then. She has seen Kieran and his mom as the villains since they came into her life.
She's been doing whatever she can to enact her revenge, but is everything she has been told true? Some of the things she has done is definitely a little on the crazy side, but seeing as she's been fed these thoughts of Kieran's mom replacing her's, I can see why she reacts so horribly.
Kieran has put up with her stuff for so long, that seeing one thing has pushed him over the edge. He had instant regret when he was getting his revenge. What he did changed both of their lives.
These two are so magnetic and cannot stay away from each other. Nothing can keep them away. This book also has some spice to it too!! I loved this retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It's full of darkness, secrets, revenge and that kick of spice we all love. Amazing job, LJ!!
Aurora's life changed drastically when she was younger and has had a manipulative voice whispering in her ear since then. She has seen Kieran and his mom as the villains since they came into her life.
She's been doing whatever she can to enact her revenge, but is everything she has been told true? Some of the things she has done is definitely a little on the crazy side, but seeing as she's been fed these thoughts of Kieran's mom replacing her's, I can see why she reacts so horribly.
Kieran has put up with her stuff for so long, that seeing one thing has pushed him over the edge. He had instant regret when he was getting his revenge. What he did changed both of their lives.
These two are so magnetic and cannot stay away from each other. Nothing can keep them away. This book also has some spice to it too!! I loved this retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It's full of darkness, secrets, revenge and that kick of spice we all love. Amazing job, LJ!!
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November 25, 2021I don't really read Fairy Tale re tellings. But I gave this a chance and was not disappointed.
We meet Rora and Kier, Step siblings since they were children.
This book is about revenge, tragedy, and passion.
Aurora is the epitome of dark and is conniving to get her way.
I loved the plot, it sucks you straight in with the secrets, making you want to read more to find out what's going on.
If you love dark fairy re telling romances with plenty of spice, then this is for you.
We meet Rora and Kier, Step siblings since they were children.
This book is about revenge, tragedy, and passion.
Aurora is the epitome of dark and is conniving to get her way.
I loved the plot, it sucks you straight in with the secrets, making you want to read more to find out what's going on.
If you love dark fairy re telling romances with plenty of spice, then this is for you.
November 20, 2021
3.5 ⭐⭐⭐
Snowflakes and Secrets is the first book that I've read by L.J Findlay. Therefore, I'm not very familiar with the author's writing so I didn't really know what to expect. After reading this book, it really gave me mixed feelings.
To be honest, this book has interesting concept. The fact that it serves step-siblings trope made it even better. As a dark romance lover, there are certain dark and taboo scenes in the book that didn't really surprise me. In fact, I had to put my moral aside when I read those scenes.
I have to admit, there are some parts that I did enjoy, but there are also some parts that kinda got me (?????). In the book, the characters were a mess. I couldn't really build a connection with the characters but I do found them to be pretty entertaining. Another thing about this book is that it's kinda short. It was a fast read for me so I felt like it lack development. I was hoping for something more but I didn't get what I wanted.
Overall, it was an ok read for me. Will I read it again? Probably no. If you're in the mood to read twisted story, then I do recommend you guys to read this one. It may not suit my taste, but it may suit others. Hence, go and give this one a chance.
Snowflakes and Secrets is the first book that I've read by L.J Findlay. Therefore, I'm not very familiar with the author's writing so I didn't really know what to expect. After reading this book, it really gave me mixed feelings.
To be honest, this book has interesting concept. The fact that it serves step-siblings trope made it even better. As a dark romance lover, there are certain dark and taboo scenes in the book that didn't really surprise me. In fact, I had to put my moral aside when I read those scenes.
I have to admit, there are some parts that I did enjoy, but there are also some parts that kinda got me (?????). In the book, the characters were a mess. I couldn't really build a connection with the characters but I do found them to be pretty entertaining. Another thing about this book is that it's kinda short. It was a fast read for me so I felt like it lack development. I was hoping for something more but I didn't get what I wanted.
Overall, it was an ok read for me. Will I read it again? Probably no. If you're in the mood to read twisted story, then I do recommend you guys to read this one. It may not suit my taste, but it may suit others. Hence, go and give this one a chance.
November 26, 2021
Beautifully Dark
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review
This was definitely a dark twisted taboo retelling of Sleeping Beauty.
‘Two lost, dark souls seeking solace within each other.’ L.J. Findlay.
This is Aurora and Kieran’s story and their story is definitely unconventional to say the least. Reading this I definitely had a hard time deciding if I loved or hated the main characters and the way they treated and acted towards each other. Of course the more I read the more I became addicted to Aurora and Kieran and to seeing them finally get their happily ever after. With all the lies, deceit, abuse, betrayal and past tragedies you can’t help but want to see someone happy for once in this tale.
If you love fairytale retellings, taboo love, strong dominant alpha characters and all the good stuff in between then you really need to read this because you’ll definitely enjoy it!! Highly recommended!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review
This was definitely a dark twisted taboo retelling of Sleeping Beauty.
‘Two lost, dark souls seeking solace within each other.’ L.J. Findlay.
This is Aurora and Kieran’s story and their story is definitely unconventional to say the least. Reading this I definitely had a hard time deciding if I loved or hated the main characters and the way they treated and acted towards each other. Of course the more I read the more I became addicted to Aurora and Kieran and to seeing them finally get their happily ever after. With all the lies, deceit, abuse, betrayal and past tragedies you can’t help but want to see someone happy for once in this tale.
If you love fairytale retellings, taboo love, strong dominant alpha characters and all the good stuff in between then you really need to read this because you’ll definitely enjoy it!! Highly recommended!!
November 29, 2021
How do I describe this book oh man, amazing fast paced dark and twisted. These two characters are toxic, not only for each other but for those around them. Lets be real Rora was a bit cray and she did some things that should be unforgivable but I was totally here for it and I got where she was coming from. I mean pretty much everyone did some unforgivable ish which lead to the cray that was coming from Rora. This story was filled with secrets, lies, betrayal and so much anger and hurt. This was a fantastic read that will have you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
November 26, 2021
This one was amazing. L.J Findlay really did a good job of a Sleeping Beauty retelling. I could not put this book down. Kieran and Aurora’s story is a bit dark and taboo as Kieran is her stepbrother. This book has some twist and alot of secrets. This quote in the blurb is amazing way to describe this book "Had I just been sleepwalking through life, sedated by deceit and half truths?"
November 28, 2021
brainless characters and repetitive use of the word ‘babe.’
November 28, 2021
You must read this, twisted dark, I couldn't put it down. Shocks and more shocks make this unforgettable. I voluntarily reviewed this book.
June 7, 2022
3.5⭐️
November 17, 2021
A Twisted Tale it is.
This retelling of Sleeping Beauty is dark, twisted and shows how manipulative one can be.
Rora and Kier are step-siblings that neither wanted. When Rora's mom passed away, her aunt Mal used Rora in her plots for revenge. Rora goes along with what she's told only to realize that things aren't always what they seem. Kier tries to fight everything that he feels and wants for Rora but he soon learns that he will never be able to.
The past, however, shows them that lies do nothing but break you. They have to learn to live with what was done. They go in this vicious cycle.
They are everything a couple shouldn't be but they are perfect for each other. There is magic between them. They understand what the other one wants and needs and are determined to see it through, even if the outside world doesn't understand.
This retelling of Sleeping Beauty is dark, twisted and shows how manipulative one can be.
Rora and Kier are step-siblings that neither wanted. When Rora's mom passed away, her aunt Mal used Rora in her plots for revenge. Rora goes along with what she's told only to realize that things aren't always what they seem. Kier tries to fight everything that he feels and wants for Rora but he soon learns that he will never be able to.
The past, however, shows them that lies do nothing but break you. They have to learn to live with what was done. They go in this vicious cycle.
They are everything a couple shouldn't be but they are perfect for each other. There is magic between them. They understand what the other one wants and needs and are determined to see it through, even if the outside world doesn't understand.
November 21, 2021
This is a wickedly fabulous twist on sleeping beauty. Aurora and Keiran are both at times the villains in this story and are such a toxic mess together it is delicious. This had suspense and lots of steam. Loved it.
November 17, 2021
A dark and twisted Sleeping Beauty retelling 🖤
Aurora is struggling with the loss of her mother, she has a darkness inside of her which just grows and grows over the years as her need for revenge spirals. It also doesn't help that she has her aunt whispering in her ear and urging her darkness to seep further
Kieran is definitely no Prince Charming, he's Aurora's step brother and that should make their relationship off limits. What starts as a dark and twisted game for both of them soon morphs into something so much more
I loved the taboo aspect of this book, LJ hasn't shied away from the darkness and I ate it up!
Aurora is struggling with the loss of her mother, she has a darkness inside of her which just grows and grows over the years as her need for revenge spirals. It also doesn't help that she has her aunt whispering in her ear and urging her darkness to seep further
Kieran is definitely no Prince Charming, he's Aurora's step brother and that should make their relationship off limits. What starts as a dark and twisted game for both of them soon morphs into something so much more
I loved the taboo aspect of this book, LJ hasn't shied away from the darkness and I ate it up!
Read
December 1, 2021Fast paced, forbidden, sleeping beauty retelling. Twisted & Toxic.. This review is long over due and not in a good way.
Fairytale Retellings are my JAM, add a bit of spice and darkness. I’ll read that shit like reading the menus at my favorite restaurant.
Aurora is easy prey, ever since she was a child and lost her mother. Manipulated and used by her Aunt, Secrets and Betrayal from her father. And then there’s her step brother, is was all so repetitive from the dialogue and the monologue from both POV’s. OOOHHH, and the trigger warnings in this? WTF, I started questioning my insanity.
TW/CW: SA, Drugs, Dubious Con
Fairytale Retellings are my JAM, add a bit of spice and darkness. I’ll read that shit like reading the menus at my favorite restaurant.
Aurora is easy prey, ever since she was a child and lost her mother. Manipulated and used by her Aunt, Secrets and Betrayal from her father. And then there’s her step brother, is was all so repetitive from the dialogue and the monologue from both POV’s. OOOHHH, and the trigger warnings in this? WTF, I started questioning my insanity.
TW/CW: SA, Drugs, Dubious Con
November 26, 2021
Wow
I absolutely love Aurora and Kieran story! I was completely absorbed into their world. I loved all steamy and twisted moment. Overall the book was amazing and explosive!!
I absolutely love Aurora and Kieran story! I was completely absorbed into their world. I loved all steamy and twisted moment. Overall the book was amazing and explosive!!
November 26, 2021
Definitely a Twisted Tale!
⚠️ This is a darker book and contains things that some readers may find disturbing. Please read with caution.
One of the things I've come to love about LJ Findlay's characters...is that she makes them real. She doesn't shy away from giving them flaws (or attitudes!) which is refreshing.
Snowflakes and Secrets loves up to its name - secrets, lies, and omissions stack up to create a mess that could have been solved with communication and honesty. It truly is a study on how lives can be destroyed by lies.
I'll be honest...I was not a fan of the main characters throughout most of the book. Buy here is where the author is a crafty little genius: you aren't meant to. Through her talented writing, she draws you in, unable to look away (like when you see a car crash)...and somehow, by the end of the book, you find yourself inadvertently rooting for the characters you were convinced you didn't like...and find yourself smiling foolishly at the ending.
(Or maybe it's just me, cause I'm a sap.)
From London to the Alps and back again, there is plenty going on, twists to unravel, and lies to unfold...and a twisted love story to tie it all together in a neat little bow.
⚠️ This is a darker book and contains things that some readers may find disturbing. Please read with caution.
One of the things I've come to love about LJ Findlay's characters...is that she makes them real. She doesn't shy away from giving them flaws (or attitudes!) which is refreshing.
Snowflakes and Secrets loves up to its name - secrets, lies, and omissions stack up to create a mess that could have been solved with communication and honesty. It truly is a study on how lives can be destroyed by lies.
I'll be honest...I was not a fan of the main characters throughout most of the book. Buy here is where the author is a crafty little genius: you aren't meant to. Through her talented writing, she draws you in, unable to look away (like when you see a car crash)...and somehow, by the end of the book, you find yourself inadvertently rooting for the characters you were convinced you didn't like...and find yourself smiling foolishly at the ending.
(Or maybe it's just me, cause I'm a sap.)
From London to the Alps and back again, there is plenty going on, twists to unravel, and lies to unfold...and a twisted love story to tie it all together in a neat little bow.
November 29, 2021
Wow. This is definitely a twisted version of Sleeping Beauty. And as a trigger warnings there was some Dub Con and the whole step-siblings thing might cause an issue to some. However, I am able to overlook those knowing it’s a dark, fictional story.
What intrigued me and kept me reading was knowing that there were secrets that would tie the whole story together. Kieran and Aurora were manipulated by these lies and secrets by their parents and aunt who should have let the truth come out in the beginning. (Of course, then there wouldn’t have been a story). Despite everything these two had this scorching hot chemistry that in the end they couldn’t fight…and boy were their scenes together HOT.
So, if you can overlook these triggers, give this twisted retelling a try. I promise it will keep you intrigued.
What intrigued me and kept me reading was knowing that there were secrets that would tie the whole story together. Kieran and Aurora were manipulated by these lies and secrets by their parents and aunt who should have let the truth come out in the beginning. (Of course, then there wouldn’t have been a story). Despite everything these two had this scorching hot chemistry that in the end they couldn’t fight…and boy were their scenes together HOT.
So, if you can overlook these triggers, give this twisted retelling a try. I promise it will keep you intrigued.
November 25, 2021
Snowflakes and Secrets has been my first read of LJ Findlay, and while it had an interesting premise, I think something was off, but most probably it was just me. I couldn't really understand the characters, the things they did and how the whole plot evolved. There is an entire secret affecting Aurora's family and add in the attraction between her and Kieran, her step-brother, of course that there was an explosion of epic proportion.
This is a taboo story, with some dark elements, some twists along the way and a forbidden love story or is it forbidden? I was curious to read how the story will be like between Aurora and Kieran, how they will get over their frustrations and believes, I would have liked this to be a little bit more darker, but I enjoyed.
This is a taboo story, with some dark elements, some twists along the way and a forbidden love story or is it forbidden? I was curious to read how the story will be like between Aurora and Kieran, how they will get over their frustrations and believes, I would have liked this to be a little bit more darker, but I enjoyed.
February 13, 2022
I REALLY wanted to give this 4 stars because I did enjoy it. There was just a bunch of stuff that took me out of the story trying to figure it out.
I’m not sure if it was the “British English”, which I’ve never had problems with before, or if it really needed a better editing job done. Some words just didn’t make sense and I would I have to go back and read again several times trying to make sense of it.
All of the secrets that were being hidden from the girls….it really made no sense why they were secrets. I guess it works because it’s fiction, but I felt like some of what happened they should’ve been told from the beginning.
Besides the weird secret keeping, I liked the plot! If you’re into dubcon, this is for you. Especially dubcon while unconscious or drugged.
I’d love to see how their story comes together later than just the one year later epilogue. Just a little flash into their future.
I’m not sure if it was the “British English”, which I’ve never had problems with before, or if it really needed a better editing job done. Some words just didn’t make sense and I would I have to go back and read again several times trying to make sense of it.
All of the secrets that were being hidden from the girls….it really made no sense why they were secrets. I guess it works because it’s fiction, but I felt like some of what happened they should’ve been told from the beginning.
Besides the weird secret keeping, I liked the plot! If you’re into dubcon, this is for you. Especially dubcon while unconscious or drugged.
I’d love to see how their story comes together later than just the one year later epilogue. Just a little flash into their future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2021
This is a twisted taboo story of a forbidden love that will leave you scandalized by how hot and bothered it get you. Why is it the most taboo leave you wanting more?
This story of Aurora and Kieran is built on a tangled web of lies that if these two can over come they can over come anything; even their family ties.
I always enjoy reading these dark stories from L.J. Findlay, she makes a not so sane person feel very sane. (insert evil laugh).
This story of Aurora and Kieran is built on a tangled web of lies that if these two can over come they can over come anything; even their family ties.
I always enjoy reading these dark stories from L.J. Findlay, she makes a not so sane person feel very sane. (insert evil laugh).
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