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Storyteller's #3
The Winter Charlatan
A Queen raised in the shadows, and a Fraud Prince who needs her help.
The sole heir to the kingdom is destined to sleep for a hundred years. To hide this liability, the queen left her cursed daughter in the care of a trusted lord, while taking his son as her own. Rowan grew up hating the boy who had her crown and vowed to one day reclaim her place as queen.
But when a neighboring king threatens a war they won’t survive, Rowan must work with the fraud prince to save Elenvérs. She pledges herself as his spy in the enemy court and lives in the heart of danger. If she can’t save her kingdom before the curse hits, there may be nothing left to wake up to.
Book Three in the Storyteller's Series. Each book is set in the same world with a few overlaying character, but is a unique plot.
The sole heir to the kingdom is destined to sleep for a hundred years. To hide this liability, the queen left her cursed daughter in the care of a trusted lord, while taking his son as her own. Rowan grew up hating the boy who had her crown and vowed to one day reclaim her place as queen.
But when a neighboring king threatens a war they won’t survive, Rowan must work with the fraud prince to save Elenvérs. She pledges herself as his spy in the enemy court and lives in the heart of danger. If she can’t save her kingdom before the curse hits, there may be nothing left to wake up to.
Book Three in the Storyteller's Series. Each book is set in the same world with a few overlaying character, but is a unique plot.
336 pages, Paperback
Published December 7, 2021
About the author
Victoria McCombs
25 books1,125 followersVictoria McCombs is the author of many YA novels, with hopefully many more to come. All her stories are no spice with no language or gore. She’s drawn to stories of stubborn courage, dangerous romance, and atmospheres thick with fairytale intrigue. When she isn’t drafting, she can be found raising four wildlings with her husband in Omaha, Nebraska, fueled by hazelnut coffee and an unwavering respect for her deadlines.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 23, 2022
My heart. I have no words. *takes deep breath*
This is hands down my favourite book of Victoria’s (and I’ve read all of them)!
I wasn’t familiar with the story of Sleeping Beauty beforehand, apart from a princess, a spindle, and sleeping for 100 years & being awoken with a kiss. Frankly, I always thought it sounded a little ridiculous. However, this story was incredibly intriguing! The tension was intense & palatable, and I was dying to see how it would all end.
There are so many parts of the book I can’t talk about because of spoilers. The layers Victoria wove about who is trustworthy and who isn’t was just incredible…I mean I was afraid to trust anyone!
I found Rowan to be a deeply relatable heroine, and I loved seeing Cassian and Rowan have to work together and trust each other. It was thrill that offered plenty of comical and tense moments!
In every book of this series, Victoria has managed to upset my idea of how the romance was going to turn out. That’s not a bad thing but definitely unexpected!
Finally, THAT ENDING! My heart has been shattered, stomped on, and scattered to the wind. I’m sure this MUST be the epitome of bittersweet endings, but my heart is convinced it’s a sad ending. I will unashamedly admit to crying.
There are two lines at a very specific moment towards the end that are very short, almost simple really, and yet their poignancy had me bawling. I can’t mention them for spoiler reasons, but they are my new “go to lines to remember when I’m in need of a good cry and would rather cry over someone’s problems and not my own.” Please tell me this isn’t just me. 😂
Anyways, I absolutely adored this book, and it will be one of the first books I order a physical copy of, after I come off my self proclaimed book buying ban! 😅
This is hands down my favourite book of Victoria’s (and I’ve read all of them)!
I wasn’t familiar with the story of Sleeping Beauty beforehand, apart from a princess, a spindle, and sleeping for 100 years & being awoken with a kiss. Frankly, I always thought it sounded a little ridiculous. However, this story was incredibly intriguing! The tension was intense & palatable, and I was dying to see how it would all end.
There are so many parts of the book I can’t talk about because of spoilers. The layers Victoria wove about who is trustworthy and who isn’t was just incredible…I mean I was afraid to trust anyone!
I found Rowan to be a deeply relatable heroine, and I loved seeing Cassian and Rowan have to work together and trust each other. It was thrill that offered plenty of comical and tense moments!
In every book of this series, Victoria has managed to upset my idea of how the romance was going to turn out. That’s not a bad thing but definitely unexpected!
Finally, THAT ENDING! My heart has been shattered, stomped on, and scattered to the wind. I’m sure this MUST be the epitome of bittersweet endings, but my heart is convinced it’s a sad ending. I will unashamedly admit to crying.
There are two lines at a very specific moment towards the end that are very short, almost simple really, and yet their poignancy had me bawling. I can’t mention them for spoiler reasons, but they are my new “go to lines to remember when I’m in need of a good cry and would rather cry over someone’s problems and not my own.” Please tell me this isn’t just me. 😂
Anyways, I absolutely adored this book, and it will be one of the first books I order a physical copy of, after I come off my self proclaimed book buying ban! 😅
December 8, 2021
Actual rating 3.5
THANKS TO TBR AND BEYOND TOURS AND NETGALLEY FOR GIVING ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO HOST THIS TOUR.
It is the third book of Story teller's series and retelling of sleeping beauty. I'd say the author took inspiration from Sleeping beauty but this book has its own world, story, and characters.
Rowan is the sole heir of the throne but the sleeping curse is in her history. No one wants a queen who'll sleep for years and only a prince will be able to wake her, It is not practical. So King and Queen gave her to their friends and took their son instead. Rowan and Ellis are sisters by this relation and Rowan can't ask for a better sister. Everyone can close their eyes from the curse but Rowan can't. She has to find a way to break this curse and claim her throne back.
I'd say the first part of the book focused on building the world and establishing the dynamics among all of the characters. The beautifully portrayed Winterland and ice castle made me shiver just by thinking of it😃. Rowan was so selfish and self-absorbed but I'll have to give her credit that she was at least aware of that. She was not a perfect princess type material but her ordinary nature made her character interesting enough. Her character development was solid though. Rowan's relationships with certain people were quite underdeveloped. A few aspects of the politics and distances among the countries were quite confusing and I couldn't understand how easily everyone was traveling despite all those wars and stuff.
Anyways the book was interesting and the world-building was solid.
THANKS TO TBR AND BEYOND TOURS AND NETGALLEY FOR GIVING ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO HOST THIS TOUR.
It is the third book of Story teller's series and retelling of sleeping beauty. I'd say the author took inspiration from Sleeping beauty but this book has its own world, story, and characters.
Rowan is the sole heir of the throne but the sleeping curse is in her history. No one wants a queen who'll sleep for years and only a prince will be able to wake her, It is not practical. So King and Queen gave her to their friends and took their son instead. Rowan and Ellis are sisters by this relation and Rowan can't ask for a better sister. Everyone can close their eyes from the curse but Rowan can't. She has to find a way to break this curse and claim her throne back.
I'd say the first part of the book focused on building the world and establishing the dynamics among all of the characters. The beautifully portrayed Winterland and ice castle made me shiver just by thinking of it😃. Rowan was so selfish and self-absorbed but I'll have to give her credit that she was at least aware of that. She was not a perfect princess type material but her ordinary nature made her character interesting enough. Her character development was solid though. Rowan's relationships with certain people were quite underdeveloped. A few aspects of the politics and distances among the countries were quite confusing and I couldn't understand how easily everyone was traveling despite all those wars and stuff.
Anyways the book was interesting and the world-building was solid.
November 14, 2021
This frosty read is evocative of all that is beloved about fairytales and spine-tingling legends. McCombs is a master of prose, twists, and well fleshed-out characters. I can't wait to see what happens next.
November 27, 2021
A very unique twist on the familiar tale of Sleeping Beauty, where the original curse is passed down to the daughter of each queen. Rowan, granddaughter of the first cursed princess, seeks to remove the curse and get her real life back. For sure was traded away as a child by a father and mother who feared the curse, and the instability it would bring the kingdom. So if Rowan can change her date, maybe she can have her family back as well.
I love how Rowan feels so authentic, in her strengths and in her flaws. A character who struggles with jealousy and discontentment is especially compelling, and convicting. I also love the journey her character takes, with all of it's ups and downs, twists and turns, and where it finally ends up is really beautiful and inspiring.
I was most sad about the twists for certain characters, as I was hopeful to see restoration and for a bit more happiness in the ending, but glad to see other characters turn out to be perhaps different than we first imagined. Lindy and Lance were also great minor characters with a lot of heart and personality!
There was a lot of action in this story, which was very fun, and I loved the White Bear! Every time he showed up, something important was about to happen, which was always very exciting.
The ending was definitely bittersweet, but I think it was very appropriate and poignant. Plus I love bittersweet endings so I didn’t mind 😜
I was very happy to find that we get more of Rowan's story in Heir of Roses, since as soon as the lad appeared I was like "wait, there are not enough pages to give me closure on this" haha so I look forward to reading that when it releases!
I love how Rowan feels so authentic, in her strengths and in her flaws. A character who struggles with jealousy and discontentment is especially compelling, and convicting. I also love the journey her character takes, with all of it's ups and downs, twists and turns, and where it finally ends up is really beautiful and inspiring.
I was most sad about the twists for certain characters, as I was hopeful to see restoration and for a bit more happiness in the ending, but glad to see other characters turn out to be perhaps different than we first imagined. Lindy and Lance were also great minor characters with a lot of heart and personality!
There was a lot of action in this story, which was very fun, and I loved the White Bear! Every time he showed up, something important was about to happen, which was always very exciting.
The ending was definitely bittersweet, but I think it was very appropriate and poignant. Plus I love bittersweet endings so I didn’t mind 😜
I was very happy to find that we get more of Rowan's story in Heir of Roses, since as soon as the lad appeared I was like "wait, there are not enough pages to give me closure on this" haha so I look forward to reading that when it releases!
February 9, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
review to come 🥰❄️
review to come 🥰❄️
January 10, 2022
As far as fairytale retellings go, The Winter Charlatan borrows elements from Sleeping Beauty but still largely creates its own unique story filled with interesting characters. As the book title and cover suggest, the story is set in a magical winter kingdom where mischief and secrets run amok and royal politics take the spotlight. We follow Rowan’s journey to break a centuries old curse passed down through generations which, upon her nineteenth birthday, will doom her to sleep for a hundred years and miss out on a normal life among her loved ones.
I absolutely loved the world building in this book! I could visualize the frozen lands and mystical grounds in which Elenvérs and its neighboring kingdoms stood with clarity. The political tension between the rival lands was so palpable, and you could tell how close the strain between Rowan and Cassian was to snapping in every stilted conversation they had during court meetings.
I enjoyed all the political drama happening behind the scenes and trying to decide who could be trusted, who was playing spy, and if this person or that person could actually be a double agent. There are loads of double crossing, backstabbing, and plenty of mystery in this fantasy novel so trust me when I say this story brings the tea! Keep in mind this is a YA book though so there is a notable lack of gore and violent scenes to match the dangerous and often life-threatening situations in which the characters find themselves.
If there was one thing I wanted more of, it would be the magical elements. There are a few magical creatures introduced in the beginning of the story, and of course Rowan’s sleeping curse is prevalent throughout the book. But the fight between the neighboring kingdoms and Rowan’s alliances with Cassian and Tarian largely take center stage for the majority of the novel’s central plot. I enjoyed these parts immensely but I think it would’ve enhanced the fantasy parts of the story to include things such as other curses that may have plagued other families over the years, or just more cool creatures like witches and dragons for the characters to encounter.
Overall I had a fun time reading The Winter Charlatan. Some of the supporting characters could have been fleshed out a little better with more page time, but I enjoyed the characterizations of the main characters. And the ending oh my goodness!! I wanna keep this spoiler free but gosh I really didn’t expect it to go where it did! This was a really cool universe to read about, and now I want to read the other books in this series too.
Many thanks to the author and BOMM for a gifted ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I absolutely loved the world building in this book! I could visualize the frozen lands and mystical grounds in which Elenvérs and its neighboring kingdoms stood with clarity. The political tension between the rival lands was so palpable, and you could tell how close the strain between Rowan and Cassian was to snapping in every stilted conversation they had during court meetings.
I enjoyed all the political drama happening behind the scenes and trying to decide who could be trusted, who was playing spy, and if this person or that person could actually be a double agent. There are loads of double crossing, backstabbing, and plenty of mystery in this fantasy novel so trust me when I say this story brings the tea! Keep in mind this is a YA book though so there is a notable lack of gore and violent scenes to match the dangerous and often life-threatening situations in which the characters find themselves.
If there was one thing I wanted more of, it would be the magical elements. There are a few magical creatures introduced in the beginning of the story, and of course Rowan’s sleeping curse is prevalent throughout the book. But the fight between the neighboring kingdoms and Rowan’s alliances with Cassian and Tarian largely take center stage for the majority of the novel’s central plot. I enjoyed these parts immensely but I think it would’ve enhanced the fantasy parts of the story to include things such as other curses that may have plagued other families over the years, or just more cool creatures like witches and dragons for the characters to encounter.
Overall I had a fun time reading The Winter Charlatan. Some of the supporting characters could have been fleshed out a little better with more page time, but I enjoyed the characterizations of the main characters. And the ending oh my goodness!! I wanna keep this spoiler free but gosh I really didn’t expect it to go where it did! This was a really cool universe to read about, and now I want to read the other books in this series too.
Many thanks to the author and BOMM for a gifted ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts.
October 3, 2024
Yikes! This was boring 🥱.
I’m sorry, that sounds mean buuut… unfortunately, I was bored the entire time reading this.
I found the characters to be dull with little to no personality. The plot was mediocre but I was interested at times to see what would happen and how it would tie to the ending. I thought the ending would be worth it. But it was not 😭. The ending was pretty much the same as any Sleeping Beauty retelling only she is literally woken up by a total stranger who is meant to be her true love instead of actually having the story build up the love interest and her. It was very disappointing 🤧.
What was the story about if not building on a potential love interest? It was about her saving her kingdom. But in the end *SPOILER* she doesn’t save it. The story was also about her finding a way to break the curse so she wouldn’t have to sleep for 100 years. Again *SPOILER* she doesn’t break the curse and she does sleep for 100 years. Why did I spend so much time reading 350+ pages for an ending where the protagonist doesn’t even achieve her end goal? 😩🙄
The only positive comments, I can muster for this book is that the cover is absolutely stunning, and there is no sexual content or inappropriate behavior/language. It just bored me to tears.
Therefore, if you’re into fairytale retellings, you may be interested in this book. I, however, was not impressed.
So, very sad 2 stars for me.
I’m sorry, that sounds mean buuut… unfortunately, I was bored the entire time reading this.
I found the characters to be dull with little to no personality. The plot was mediocre but I was interested at times to see what would happen and how it would tie to the ending. I thought the ending would be worth it. But it was not 😭. The ending was pretty much the same as any Sleeping Beauty retelling only she is literally woken up by a total stranger who is meant to be her true love instead of actually having the story build up the love interest and her. It was very disappointing 🤧.
What was the story about if not building on a potential love interest? It was about her saving her kingdom. But in the end *SPOILER* she doesn’t save it. The story was also about her finding a way to break the curse so she wouldn’t have to sleep for 100 years. Again *SPOILER* she doesn’t break the curse and she does sleep for 100 years. Why did I spend so much time reading 350+ pages for an ending where the protagonist doesn’t even achieve her end goal? 😩🙄
The only positive comments, I can muster for this book is that the cover is absolutely stunning, and there is no sexual content or inappropriate behavior/language. It just bored me to tears.
Therefore, if you’re into fairytale retellings, you may be interested in this book. I, however, was not impressed.
So, very sad 2 stars for me.
April 24, 2023
I love a good retelling and this one was really great! The ending really tugged on my heartstrings!
McCombs has proved herself good at writing flawed characters, and the character of Rowan is her most believable yet. She is so sure of herself and her plans, and that makes her reckless and haughty. I loved watching her grow and improve throughout the story, and the culmination of her newfound selflessness at the end of the story nearly brought me to tears. The first part of her arc captured here really shows her personality and growth, and this was probably my favorite book of the series. I would also recommend this one to fans of retellings.
McCombs has proved herself good at writing flawed characters, and the character of Rowan is her most believable yet. She is so sure of herself and her plans, and that makes her reckless and haughty. I loved watching her grow and improve throughout the story, and the culmination of her newfound selflessness at the end of the story nearly brought me to tears. The first part of her arc captured here really shows her personality and growth, and this was probably my favorite book of the series. I would also recommend this one to fans of retellings.
February 1, 2022
◦ I've received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review ◦
The book begins with Rowan and her sister trying to hunt down a legendary bear that is granted to show up only to those with a pure heart.
At the beginning of the story, I found it to be slow, almost like dragging, however, I didn't feel bored by it, instead, it intrigued me, I wanted to know more even tho it was slow and there wasn't much action happening but something made me feel like things are going to go down and fast. And for sure I wasn't wrong about it.
The story is being told from only 1 pov and that’s Rowan’s side of the story. I really enjoyed the fact we got to see the story through her eyes and not being told about it – this was really amazing especially after she fell asleep, the feelings she had along the way were really catchy and sucked me in finishing the book in a heartbeat.
The magic system in the book is based mostly on witches and other types of mages that contain magic, Rowan on herself doesn’t have magic but can use magical objects. I really loved the moral of the story behind and how she redeemed herself and how she could call herself a pure heart.
The espionage in the story was really catchy and made me enjoy the story even more. The plot twist somehow I felt it coming, I felt there’s some betrayal going on but I wasn’t sure from who exactly because so many persons were suspicious and there was so much mystery involving everyone making it really hard who to trust.
The ending of the book I felt to be perfect especially since there’s a 2nd book coming out since this is a duology. I loved the ending because it wasn’t based on instant love and even tho is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty the ending left space for so many things to be explored and I’m really excited to read it further.
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The book begins with Rowan and her sister trying to hunt down a legendary bear that is granted to show up only to those with a pure heart.
At the beginning of the story, I found it to be slow, almost like dragging, however, I didn't feel bored by it, instead, it intrigued me, I wanted to know more even tho it was slow and there wasn't much action happening but something made me feel like things are going to go down and fast. And for sure I wasn't wrong about it.
The story is being told from only 1 pov and that’s Rowan’s side of the story. I really enjoyed the fact we got to see the story through her eyes and not being told about it – this was really amazing especially after she fell asleep, the feelings she had along the way were really catchy and sucked me in finishing the book in a heartbeat.
The magic system in the book is based mostly on witches and other types of mages that contain magic, Rowan on herself doesn’t have magic but can use magical objects. I really loved the moral of the story behind and how she redeemed herself and how she could call herself a pure heart.
The espionage in the story was really catchy and made me enjoy the story even more. The plot twist somehow I felt it coming, I felt there’s some betrayal going on but I wasn’t sure from who exactly because so many persons were suspicious and there was so much mystery involving everyone making it really hard who to trust.
The ending of the book I felt to be perfect especially since there’s a 2nd book coming out since this is a duology. I loved the ending because it wasn’t based on instant love and even tho is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty the ending left space for so many things to be explored and I’m really excited to read it further.
Follow me on my social media for more than just reviews:
BookBub
Reedsy
Blog
February 1, 2022
❄️ The prince needs the girl's help to save the kingdom. First she’ll save it, then she’ll steal it back. ❄️
Once you start The Winter Charlatan, you cannot put it down. Rowan is a princess. Or well, she's supposed to be. Knowing that she is supposed to prick her finger and fall into an 100-year sleep on the eve of her 19th birthday, her parents make the decision to swap her for the throne's security. Growing up in the false prince's shadow, she yearns for the day where she will be recognized as the rightful heir.
And she'll do anything to take back her throne.
The world that Victoria built is lovely, and so vivid! I loved discovering world that the characters lived in - particularly the politics behind the kingdoms, and the unique pieces of magic that were part of their day-to-day lives. The pacing in this book was perfect!
I loved seeing Rowan's character development throughout the books! Watching her open herself to those around her, and find the courage to be the Queen that she needed to be was truly inspiring.
I did not mind the lack of romance in this book at all! There was absolutely no room in Rowan's life (or in her mind) for romance, and I never felt as if this book was lacking for it. Definitely a breath of fresh air! I did feel, however, that the extent of some of her friendships were not completely explored.
I enjoyed every minute of this book - especially the plot twists! The ending though...I should have seen it coming but I was in complete and utter denial. I was glad to find out that a second book was coming because I would not have accepted it otherwise 🤣
I cannot wait to see what happens next!!!
Once you start The Winter Charlatan, you cannot put it down. Rowan is a princess. Or well, she's supposed to be. Knowing that she is supposed to prick her finger and fall into an 100-year sleep on the eve of her 19th birthday, her parents make the decision to swap her for the throne's security. Growing up in the false prince's shadow, she yearns for the day where she will be recognized as the rightful heir.
And she'll do anything to take back her throne.
The world that Victoria built is lovely, and so vivid! I loved discovering world that the characters lived in - particularly the politics behind the kingdoms, and the unique pieces of magic that were part of their day-to-day lives. The pacing in this book was perfect!
I loved seeing Rowan's character development throughout the books! Watching her open herself to those around her, and find the courage to be the Queen that she needed to be was truly inspiring.
I did not mind the lack of romance in this book at all! There was absolutely no room in Rowan's life (or in her mind) for romance, and I never felt as if this book was lacking for it. Definitely a breath of fresh air! I did feel, however, that the extent of some of her friendships were not completely explored.
I enjoyed every minute of this book - especially the plot twists! The ending though...I should have seen it coming but I was in complete and utter denial. I was glad to find out that a second book was coming because I would not have accepted it otherwise 🤣
I cannot wait to see what happens next!!!
December 10, 2021
If you enjoy fairytale retellings, you should definitely check out The Winter Charlatan!
For me, the first half of this story was a tad slow. It didn’t help that I was given an eARC of another book (with pirates!) and got completely side-tracked by that book for a bit. (That book is Oathbound and happens to also be by Victoria McCombs, but that’s another review that I already wrote. Feel free to check it out too.)
Once I finished reading the pirate book, I returned to The Winter Charlatan. At about the mid-point of the story, I felt that it started to pick up speed a little and get a bit more interesting too. Somewhere in there I finally started to connect with Rowan too, and I wanted to know what would happen to her.
I’ve always loved the Sleeping Beauty fairytale (the Disney version is one of my faves). I found that although The Winter Charlatan has elements of the original tale, it really is a unique story of its own. And that’s a good thing. I enjoyed Rowan’s story and look forward to reading the next book in the series too!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
I received an early ebook ARC from the author to read and review. All thoughts expressed in this review are honest and my own.
For me, the first half of this story was a tad slow. It didn’t help that I was given an eARC of another book (with pirates!) and got completely side-tracked by that book for a bit. (That book is Oathbound and happens to also be by Victoria McCombs, but that’s another review that I already wrote. Feel free to check it out too.)
Once I finished reading the pirate book, I returned to The Winter Charlatan. At about the mid-point of the story, I felt that it started to pick up speed a little and get a bit more interesting too. Somewhere in there I finally started to connect with Rowan too, and I wanted to know what would happen to her.
I’ve always loved the Sleeping Beauty fairytale (the Disney version is one of my faves). I found that although The Winter Charlatan has elements of the original tale, it really is a unique story of its own. And that’s a good thing. I enjoyed Rowan’s story and look forward to reading the next book in the series too!
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)
I received an early ebook ARC from the author to read and review. All thoughts expressed in this review are honest and my own.
October 22, 2025
Spoilers ahead!!
What a lovely read! I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Some of my favorite quotes/comments on this read:
“…it all drifted away as he held me tight.”
“Not his sister indeed” Lance muttered.
“You’re safe.” He breathed into my hair, crushing me in his embrace” pg. 326
Lance had me rolling here!!
Also, Cassian’s affection for Rowan being on full display here is just so wholesome.
“Thank you. I hope to be half the ruler you are.”
He wiped a tear from his cheek. “You’ll be twice as great. I believe in you.”
Pg. 334
ALRIGHTY BREAK OUT THE TISSUES.
Overall, this novel incorporated the basic Snow White elements, while taking beautiful creative liberties with the characters, plot, and world-building.
There were a number of unexpected turn of events for me, which I appreciated and thought to be so clever of the author! Namely, Rowan and Cassian’s character growth and the regression of Elis’. Watching Rowan change throughout the story as she adopts humility and altruism was satisfying and inspiring.
“You are the strongest queen Elenvers could have asked for.”
Pg. 341
I couldn’t agree more, Cassian!
What a lovely read! I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Some of my favorite quotes/comments on this read:
“…it all drifted away as he held me tight.”
“Not his sister indeed” Lance muttered.
“You’re safe.” He breathed into my hair, crushing me in his embrace” pg. 326
Lance had me rolling here!!
Also, Cassian’s affection for Rowan being on full display here is just so wholesome.
“Thank you. I hope to be half the ruler you are.”
He wiped a tear from his cheek. “You’ll be twice as great. I believe in you.”
Pg. 334
ALRIGHTY BREAK OUT THE TISSUES.
Overall, this novel incorporated the basic Snow White elements, while taking beautiful creative liberties with the characters, plot, and world-building.
There were a number of unexpected turn of events for me, which I appreciated and thought to be so clever of the author! Namely, Rowan and Cassian’s character growth and the regression of Elis’. Watching Rowan change throughout the story as she adopts humility and altruism was satisfying and inspiring.
“You are the strongest queen Elenvers could have asked for.”
Pg. 341
I couldn’t agree more, Cassian!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2021
I'M OBSESSED!!! A curse, a deadly struggle for the throne, and a girl who will fight to save her kingdom at all costs. This Sleeping Beauty retelling will steal your heart!
Okay. First, I really connected with the heroine, Rowan. She is definitely jaded and a little rough around the edges, but that made me like her more. I could see a lot of myself in her. She is a go-getter, and I enjoyed her tenacity.
There was fantastic character development in this book. I loved Elis & Rowan's sister relationship. I'm a big fan of the lead boys as well (Cassian & Tarion), and I found myself questioning if I wanted love to happen in this novel or not.
The writing: very well done. Victoria certainly knows how to weave together words. As an author myself, I'm learning from her quite a bit.
And the TWISTS!!! Okay, no spoilers, but WOW. There were some things I did NOT see coming. This was a book that made me feel ALL the things (including several times where I gasped aloud, a moment where I teared up, and another moment where I was screaming "WHAT!?" at my phone.)
If you're a fan of magic, brave hearts, struggling Kingdoms on the brink of war, and high stakes, this is the book for you!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an early copy of TWC. All thoughts are my own.*
Okay. First, I really connected with the heroine, Rowan. She is definitely jaded and a little rough around the edges, but that made me like her more. I could see a lot of myself in her. She is a go-getter, and I enjoyed her tenacity.
There was fantastic character development in this book. I loved Elis & Rowan's sister relationship. I'm a big fan of the lead boys as well (Cassian & Tarion), and I found myself questioning if I wanted love to happen in this novel or not.
The writing: very well done. Victoria certainly knows how to weave together words. As an author myself, I'm learning from her quite a bit.
And the TWISTS!!! Okay, no spoilers, but WOW. There were some things I did NOT see coming. This was a book that made me feel ALL the things (including several times where I gasped aloud, a moment where I teared up, and another moment where I was screaming "WHAT!?" at my phone.)
If you're a fan of magic, brave hearts, struggling Kingdoms on the brink of war, and high stakes, this is the book for you!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an early copy of TWC. All thoughts are my own.*
December 7, 2021
This is the third book in the storyteller universe. Every book is it’s own retelling, with a completely different story but in the same world. You can read them separately, but also as a series because then you’ll understand the little cross-overs. I’ve read all of them and really love them! I’ve always been a big sucker for retellings, so when I first heard about the books I immediately wanted to read them. And now being able to review them for Victoria, is really cool!
This third book is a Sleeping Beauty retelling. I haven’t read many Sleeping Beauty retellings, so I was very curious about this one. The cover is just super pretty and magical and wintery, so this was the perfect time to read it!
Our main character, Rowan, is the rightful heir to the throne. A curse rests on her, which means she will sleep for a hundred years, beginning in her eighteenth year. Her parents switched her with a boy when she was born. Now that she’s older, she’s ready to break the curse and take back her throne.
Rowan is a super strong character. She’s not a girl who thinks she needs pity because she’s cursed. She’s willing to do what needs to be done to break it. She kills a bear, goes spying on another kingdom and is even willing to cut off her hand if it will prevent her from being pricked by the spindle.
The story was very enjoyable. There were a few plot twists that I didn’t see coming and there was a lot of character growth. I loved the relationship between Rowan and her sister Elis, and I adored Cassian!
I’m really curious about the next book, because then the story will continue and we will hopefully see more about Rowan’s story. Can’t wait to read the fourth book in the series!
This third book is a Sleeping Beauty retelling. I haven’t read many Sleeping Beauty retellings, so I was very curious about this one. The cover is just super pretty and magical and wintery, so this was the perfect time to read it!
Our main character, Rowan, is the rightful heir to the throne. A curse rests on her, which means she will sleep for a hundred years, beginning in her eighteenth year. Her parents switched her with a boy when she was born. Now that she’s older, she’s ready to break the curse and take back her throne.
Rowan is a super strong character. She’s not a girl who thinks she needs pity because she’s cursed. She’s willing to do what needs to be done to break it. She kills a bear, goes spying on another kingdom and is even willing to cut off her hand if it will prevent her from being pricked by the spindle.
The story was very enjoyable. There were a few plot twists that I didn’t see coming and there was a lot of character growth. I loved the relationship between Rowan and her sister Elis, and I adored Cassian!
I’m really curious about the next book, because then the story will continue and we will hopefully see more about Rowan’s story. Can’t wait to read the fourth book in the series!
January 6, 2022
I was so happy to receive a copy of this book. Sleeping Beauty isn’t a fairytale that I feel gets much spotlight in the retelling world, so I was excited to see what McCombs had to bring to the table.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. I loves the idea that the princess knows about her curse and fights to find a way to stop it. I don’t like to talk too much about plot because I always want to avoid spoilers but I thought the twist was pretty good.
The workd building was great, imagining Elenvèrs was so cool, a literal ice palace is just so fairytale. I loved the magic elements in the story also. I felt that the world was solid.
I always enjoy reading reviews where the reviewer gives comparable works. I feel like The Cruel Prince is a good comparison in the sense of the main character being so strategic and cunning, and I was also reminded of East by Ellen Pattou, with the pure magic and straightforward storytelling that captivates you.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. I loves the idea that the princess knows about her curse and fights to find a way to stop it. I don’t like to talk too much about plot because I always want to avoid spoilers but I thought the twist was pretty good.
The workd building was great, imagining Elenvèrs was so cool, a literal ice palace is just so fairytale. I loved the magic elements in the story also. I felt that the world was solid.
I always enjoy reading reviews where the reviewer gives comparable works. I feel like The Cruel Prince is a good comparison in the sense of the main character being so strategic and cunning, and I was also reminded of East by Ellen Pattou, with the pure magic and straightforward storytelling that captivates you.
January 25, 2022
I had mostly given up fairy tale/fantasy books as a) dumb; b) inappropriate; c) boring; or d) about as good as a particularly cringe Hallmark movie. This book hasn't cured that as there are still some terrible books out there but it has reminded me that quite a few modern books are still worth reading. It is the first self published book I've ever read and I bought it because of how awesome the description. This book was super fun. The plot was compelling with quite a few twists, several which were better than anything I've read in a traditionally published book. Rowan was an awesome main character and actually had some really good character development. She was everything you'd want in a heroine. The supporting cast was vibrant and interesting. Rowan's maid in particular was so much more fun than the typical lady's maid in books. I loved how the white bear was used as a literary device and thought his second appearance was one of the best parts of the whole book. The ending was equally frustrating and exactly what needed to happen.
I will say there were times the plot felt a bit unbelievable but overall, I really really enjoyed this book. I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel and in the meantime will be purchasing the author's upcoming novel, Oathbound.
I will say there were times the plot felt a bit unbelievable but overall, I really really enjoyed this book. I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel and in the meantime will be purchasing the author's upcoming novel, Oathbound.
January 29, 2022
"The prince needs the girl's help to save the kingdom. First she’ll save it, then she’ll steal it back."
Firstly the cover is beautiful. The author has created a unique plot and the cold atmosphere. In this season we get an ice cold retelling of Sleeping Beauty.
Rowan is cursed to prick her finger at nineteen and fall asleep for hundred years. She is hurt by negligence from her parents. She has a tremendous character development. The other characters were also good with each being well developed. I liked Cassian towards the end. This had some predictable moments but it didn't stop me from liking it.
The author didn't focus on romance, it wasn't the main part of this book and I am glad for that. It made the entire story much more interesting with the character journey to focus on and twists.
Victoria McCombs is a great writer and this world will capture all your attention. I would recommend this beautiful story with wonderful world building.
Thank you author and Book of Matches Media for providing me with this arc.
Firstly the cover is beautiful. The author has created a unique plot and the cold atmosphere. In this season we get an ice cold retelling of Sleeping Beauty.
Rowan is cursed to prick her finger at nineteen and fall asleep for hundred years. She is hurt by negligence from her parents. She has a tremendous character development. The other characters were also good with each being well developed. I liked Cassian towards the end. This had some predictable moments but it didn't stop me from liking it.
The author didn't focus on romance, it wasn't the main part of this book and I am glad for that. It made the entire story much more interesting with the character journey to focus on and twists.
Victoria McCombs is a great writer and this world will capture all your attention. I would recommend this beautiful story with wonderful world building.
Thank you author and Book of Matches Media for providing me with this arc.
December 8, 2021
So this was a unique and wonderful retelling of sleeping beauty but not the same old thing you've always read. This had a twist. I know this is the 3rd book in a series but I only read this one and honestly, I had no trouble at all following along. I will likely be adding the others to my to-read list. Authors do not always remember that people change and evolve over time but the character development in this was fantastic and with relatable characters, amazing considering the fairytale aspect but entirely true. The brother-sister relationship made me wish I had a brother! You really should read this if you are a fan of fairytales or even just fantasy in general.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
February 20, 2025
It’s 10:30pm… I just finished this book and I’m breathless! I could have never guessed the ending and I’m just so in love! It didn’t end how I wanted but somehow it’s better!? I don’t want to give spoilers but the way the ending is written, while different from the rest of the book, is absolutely chefs kiss 😚
Truthfully, it took me several chapters to really get into this one, but I adored the first two books so I convinced myself to give it time. I’m so so glad I did, I was over halfway through when I started telling my husband and my daughter that it was starting to get good but boy did it build from there!
By the last several chapters I was gasping aloud, crying, and grinning from ear to ear! Thank goodness I ordered Heir of Roses when I ordered this one so I can start it tomorrow!
Victoria McCombs has a fan for life in me! ❤️🔥
Truthfully, it took me several chapters to really get into this one, but I adored the first two books so I convinced myself to give it time. I’m so so glad I did, I was over halfway through when I started telling my husband and my daughter that it was starting to get good but boy did it build from there!
By the last several chapters I was gasping aloud, crying, and grinning from ear to ear! Thank goodness I ordered Heir of Roses when I ordered this one so I can start it tomorrow!
Victoria McCombs has a fan for life in me! ❤️🔥
December 18, 2021
This was a great book to read for this time of year! The author has created a chilly but absolutely beautiful winter icy world with an ice kingdom & a magical polar bear! I really liked Rowan, the main character! She isn't perfect actually she's pretty selfish and knows she is but it was nice to see her character develop throughout the book! The other character would be the polar bear. I loved him! There's a lot of action in this book which made for an entertaining & exciting read! As for the retelling of the Beauty & the Beast I rather liked the author's twists! I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next. Maybe we'll see some more Rowan in the future!
November 12, 2021
Loved this story! It's so full of twists and turns, and I was continually second-guessing any thoughts I had about where the plot was going. XD Loved watching the characters grow in the story (especially Rowan), and I can't wait to see where their stories will lead in the next book!
~I received a free copy of this book and was not required to leave a positive review.~
~I received a free copy of this book and was not required to leave a positive review.~
Want to Read
April 3, 2021Pretty cover....so pretty....*starry eyes*
April 23, 2022
BEWARE!!! This book ends on a cliffhanger so you have to wait until after May 10th to read it or you'll be stuck in the miserable position that I'm in right now. 😂
December 13, 2021
I read this right at the end of November when all the drama at home started kicking off. This was such a beautifully written and unique take on Sleeping Beauty that I really enjoyed.
It gave me an escape that I felt I really needed at the time.
Sleeping Beauty is not typically my favourite fairytale so it is always so great to be able to share the exception to the rule.
This is absolutely an exception!
Though it is the third book in a series I didn't feel confused by anything that was happening and the book can easily be read as a standalone.
The world-building in this book is stunning. The author has a beautiful writing style that is very easy to follow and that paints a very vivid picture of the world and characters in the reader's mind.
I really loved Rowan as a MC, she is a girl you feel like you can really get behind even though she has her faults. She really grows as a character which is something I really enjoyed.
The book was filled with twists and turns and there were so many shocks, especially toward the end.
I would highly recommend it, it is a quick and easy read with a unique take on a well-known story!
It gave me an escape that I felt I really needed at the time.
Sleeping Beauty is not typically my favourite fairytale so it is always so great to be able to share the exception to the rule.
This is absolutely an exception!
Though it is the third book in a series I didn't feel confused by anything that was happening and the book can easily be read as a standalone.
The world-building in this book is stunning. The author has a beautiful writing style that is very easy to follow and that paints a very vivid picture of the world and characters in the reader's mind.
I really loved Rowan as a MC, she is a girl you feel like you can really get behind even though she has her faults. She really grows as a character which is something I really enjoyed.
The book was filled with twists and turns and there were so many shocks, especially toward the end.
I would highly recommend it, it is a quick and easy read with a unique take on a well-known story!
December 26, 2022
I absolutely devoured this book!!! The Winter Charlatan was the perfect Christmas read that made me feel all kinds of ways🙈 The characters were so raw and real that I fell in love with them all—even the backstabers and betrayers—and the story itself is full of political intrigue, powerful magic, and heartache that made me as a reader really feel for the characters.
I’ve read some of Victoria’s work before, but this was the first in her Storyteller’s Series that I’ve picked up. You absolutely don’t have to read the others before The Winter Charlatan, but after this I’m going to have to get ahold of the first two!
I’ve read some of Victoria’s work before, but this was the first in her Storyteller’s Series that I’ve picked up. You absolutely don’t have to read the others before The Winter Charlatan, but after this I’m going to have to get ahold of the first two!
August 12, 2022
All the characters that matter get killed in the second to last chapter and then a bunch of randoms get introduced in the lsat chapter. apparently the sequel is all about MC's adventures with the randos. Also the book itself, up to this point, was incredibly boring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2021
I'm a little torn on this story. There were parts about it that were very well done but others were more little lackluster for me. Some of the character arcs were excellent. The world-building was also very good.
This is a Sleeping Beauty retelling and 85% of the book is leading up to the finger prick. There is a lot of traveling back and forth between kingdoms and I must say as many times as they moved around we didn't have to hear the details of each trip. So the pacing was good on that point. Rowan had a great character arc. She was very self-absorbed and she knew it. On the other hand, she did have a lot of crappy stuff in her life. Her parents treated her like a dead woman walking. Her father showed her no regard whatsoever. Even if we learn that was his way of coping. It was a really cruel way to treat her even if it was to protect the big secret.
Rowan never seems to know who to trust. One minute this person threatens to kill her and the next he's worried for her safety. All of the characters seemed to flip flop at one point or another.
Another thing about Rowan that somewhat annoyed me as she was gifted with wisdom when she was an infant but you really saw no signs of wisdom. She was constantly making unwise choices. Despite not trusting anyone around her she is very quick to do whatever it is they ask of her even at great personal risk.
Also, she's searching the whole book for a way to break the curse That will make her sleep for 100 years. The curse that can only be lifted with true love's first kiss. Why does she never look for true love in her search to break the curse? Not only does she not look for love but she actively avoids romantic attachments. It just seemed the easiest way to break the curse, especially since (Although she didn't trust him at first.) There was a perfectly good option in front of her. Maybe it wasn't true love but there were definitely feelings there. Plus that was how her mom got broke the curse early.
I will say the last 25% was binge-worthy! I do have a few other points but I'm going to hide them below so I don't spoil them for anyone. But I'd love your feedback if you've read this too.
This is a Sleeping Beauty retelling and 85% of the book is leading up to the finger prick. There is a lot of traveling back and forth between kingdoms and I must say as many times as they moved around we didn't have to hear the details of each trip. So the pacing was good on that point. Rowan had a great character arc. She was very self-absorbed and she knew it. On the other hand, she did have a lot of crappy stuff in her life. Her parents treated her like a dead woman walking. Her father showed her no regard whatsoever. Even if we learn that was his way of coping. It was a really cruel way to treat her even if it was to protect the big secret.
Rowan never seems to know who to trust. One minute this person threatens to kill her and the next he's worried for her safety. All of the characters seemed to flip flop at one point or another.
Another thing about Rowan that somewhat annoyed me as she was gifted with wisdom when she was an infant but you really saw no signs of wisdom. She was constantly making unwise choices. Despite not trusting anyone around her she is very quick to do whatever it is they ask of her even at great personal risk.
Also, she's searching the whole book for a way to break the curse That will make her sleep for 100 years. The curse that can only be lifted with true love's first kiss. Why does she never look for true love in her search to break the curse? Not only does she not look for love but she actively avoids romantic attachments. It just seemed the easiest way to break the curse, especially since (Although she didn't trust him at first.) There was a perfectly good option in front of her. Maybe it wasn't true love but there were definitely feelings there. Plus that was how her mom got broke the curse early.
I will say the last 25% was binge-worthy! I do have a few other points but I'm going to hide them below so I don't spoil them for anyone. But I'd love your feedback if you've read this too.
August 2, 2021
THE WINTER CHARLATAN is an engaging fantasy full of mystery and intrigue. Victoria McCombs casts a spell on her readers with her description of two countries whose ties are colder than the air around them.
Rowan is the daughter of the king and queen of Elenvérs, but she may never sit on the royal throne. A curse to sleep one hundred years from the day before her nineteenth birthday was cast on her grandmother and continues to haunt the women in her family line. Fairies bestowed divine gifts upon her, but the king and queen still worried for the longevity of the country once their subjects realized their princess’s destiny was sealed. Switched near her birth with a baby boy born to noble parents, Rowan is kept close to her royal family, but she must watch as their son, Cassian, is treated with the loyalty and respect owed to her. Hiding in private areas, Rowan is privy to secret meetings and strategic planning to help her for the day she may become queen, and she is given battle lessons with Cassian. She forms a strong relationship with her foster sister, Elis, and they look for ways to release Rowan from the curse. A witch provides Rowan with a wish, and she and Elis search for a way to use it creatively to indirectly break the curse.
After a visit from the king and prince of ThornHigh, Elis and Rowan are sent as emissaries. The relationship between their country and ThornHigh is strained, but they are welcomed, especially by Prince Tarion. Is he only misleading them into false comfort so that ThornHigh soldiers can overtake Elenvérs, or does he really want to encourage friendship between their countries?
Will Rowan break the curse, or will she lose her friends and family as she sleeps for one hundred years? Worse, will she wake to find her country gone?
The title of the book is THE WINTER CHARLATAN, and I tried to guess the identity of the deceiver throughout the book. However, there are many cold people, and their frigid natures make them all suspects. Readers will shiver when the bitter swindler is revealed.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book for my honest review. I like fantasy stories, and I really enjoyed this one. Victoria McCombs did a great job building a world with explanations that were gently weaved into the pages. Also, the main character is multi-sided, and isn’t always likeable, so she’s more relatable.
I recommend this book for middle grade readers, as there are only a few light kisses. Also, more experienced readers may enjoy the conspiracy in the plot and the parallels between THE WINTER CHARLATAN and SLEEPING BEAUTY.
Rowan is the daughter of the king and queen of Elenvérs, but she may never sit on the royal throne. A curse to sleep one hundred years from the day before her nineteenth birthday was cast on her grandmother and continues to haunt the women in her family line. Fairies bestowed divine gifts upon her, but the king and queen still worried for the longevity of the country once their subjects realized their princess’s destiny was sealed. Switched near her birth with a baby boy born to noble parents, Rowan is kept close to her royal family, but she must watch as their son, Cassian, is treated with the loyalty and respect owed to her. Hiding in private areas, Rowan is privy to secret meetings and strategic planning to help her for the day she may become queen, and she is given battle lessons with Cassian. She forms a strong relationship with her foster sister, Elis, and they look for ways to release Rowan from the curse. A witch provides Rowan with a wish, and she and Elis search for a way to use it creatively to indirectly break the curse.
After a visit from the king and prince of ThornHigh, Elis and Rowan are sent as emissaries. The relationship between their country and ThornHigh is strained, but they are welcomed, especially by Prince Tarion. Is he only misleading them into false comfort so that ThornHigh soldiers can overtake Elenvérs, or does he really want to encourage friendship between their countries?
Will Rowan break the curse, or will she lose her friends and family as she sleeps for one hundred years? Worse, will she wake to find her country gone?
The title of the book is THE WINTER CHARLATAN, and I tried to guess the identity of the deceiver throughout the book. However, there are many cold people, and their frigid natures make them all suspects. Readers will shiver when the bitter swindler is revealed.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book for my honest review. I like fantasy stories, and I really enjoyed this one. Victoria McCombs did a great job building a world with explanations that were gently weaved into the pages. Also, the main character is multi-sided, and isn’t always likeable, so she’s more relatable.
I recommend this book for middle grade readers, as there are only a few light kisses. Also, more experienced readers may enjoy the conspiracy in the plot and the parallels between THE WINTER CHARLATAN and SLEEPING BEAUTY.
December 30, 2021
Find this review and more on my blog at
Worlds Unlike Our Own
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Thank you to the publisher, Parliament House Press, and TBR and Beyond Tours for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rowan is the true heir to the throne of Elenvers, but she has a curse that will see her sleep for a hundred years when she turns 18. Fearing the instability her curse could plunge the kingdom into, the king and queen traded away their own daughter to a family friend, taking in return their son, Cassian, who has been raised as the crown prince. Rowan has grown up hating Cassian, and continuously searches for a way to break her curse, determined to one day reclaim her rightful place. But when the neighboring kingdom of ThornHigh threatens to invade, Rowan will have to work with the imposter on her throne to save Elenvers with only a matter of months before the curse is due to strike.
The third novel in the Storyteller’s series is an imaginative retelling of Sleeping Beauty, but just like the two books before it, it takes the base story and creates an entirely new world and cast of characters. There are a few familiar faces but this can definitely be read as a standalone, which is really nice because you don’t have to remember the entirety of the stories so far to keep up either. The world building was really good, and I loved the concept of an ice palace. This was an enjoyable read and I really liked this take on the fairytale. With the added aspect of the tensions between the neighboring kingdoms, it was quite difficult to make out who was friend or foe, and I was constantly trying to figure out the characters motivations and how things might end.
Rowan was a very interesting character and she felt very authentic in her struggle with her situation. Her character arc was well done and I liked her relationship with her adoptive sister Elis. I couldn’t make up my mind about Cassian for quite some time, since we see him only from Rowan’s perspective and she hates him. It would have been nice if he had POVs as well, because my question from page one was what Cassian really thinks about the whole heir switch that their parents decided on.
Overall, I was very impressed with this latest addition to the Storyteller’s series and I really like the author’s approach to retellings. The Winter Charlatan was a fast paced read with some great plot twists and I think it’s my favorite in the series so far. The fourth book, Heir of Roses, already has a publishing date and seems to be a continuation of Rowan’s story, so I’m really excited to read it. Highly recommended!
Thank you to the publisher, Parliament House Press, and TBR and Beyond Tours for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Rowan is the true heir to the throne of Elenvers, but she has a curse that will see her sleep for a hundred years when she turns 18. Fearing the instability her curse could plunge the kingdom into, the king and queen traded away their own daughter to a family friend, taking in return their son, Cassian, who has been raised as the crown prince. Rowan has grown up hating Cassian, and continuously searches for a way to break her curse, determined to one day reclaim her rightful place. But when the neighboring kingdom of ThornHigh threatens to invade, Rowan will have to work with the imposter on her throne to save Elenvers with only a matter of months before the curse is due to strike.
The third novel in the Storyteller’s series is an imaginative retelling of Sleeping Beauty, but just like the two books before it, it takes the base story and creates an entirely new world and cast of characters. There are a few familiar faces but this can definitely be read as a standalone, which is really nice because you don’t have to remember the entirety of the stories so far to keep up either. The world building was really good, and I loved the concept of an ice palace. This was an enjoyable read and I really liked this take on the fairytale. With the added aspect of the tensions between the neighboring kingdoms, it was quite difficult to make out who was friend or foe, and I was constantly trying to figure out the characters motivations and how things might end.
Rowan was a very interesting character and she felt very authentic in her struggle with her situation. Her character arc was well done and I liked her relationship with her adoptive sister Elis. I couldn’t make up my mind about Cassian for quite some time, since we see him only from Rowan’s perspective and she hates him. It would have been nice if he had POVs as well, because my question from page one was what Cassian really thinks about the whole heir switch that their parents decided on.
Overall, I was very impressed with this latest addition to the Storyteller’s series and I really like the author’s approach to retellings. The Winter Charlatan was a fast paced read with some great plot twists and I think it’s my favorite in the series so far. The fourth book, Heir of Roses, already has a publishing date and seems to be a continuation of Rowan’s story, so I’m really excited to read it. Highly recommended!
February 15, 2022
A copy of the book was provided for review purposes - thank you! Receiving a copy does not guarantee a positive review and therefore does not affect the opinion or content of the review.
Where do I even begin?
The Winter Charlatan is the third book in Victoria McCombs's Storyteller's series, a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, and if Woods of Silver and Light was any indication, the story is set north of the first two books in the kingdom of Elenvérs, where the heir is destined to sleep for a hundred years.
This is, by far, my favorite book out of the Storyteller's series and not because Sleeping Beauty was my favorite fairy tale for the mere fact of sleep. (I was definitely that kid who liked naps but didn't actually nap.) There's a lot of growth to McCombs's writing from the first two books - as we travel across the freezing northern kingdom, the writing was immersive and descriptive and the pacing was far better balanced from the previous novels. Although the book definitely takes a page from the previous novels in starting out slow, it gradually builds up to the very end rather than ending abruptly, and perhaps that may be because this book and the next are connected together with the same main character and can't be read out of order like the first two.
The Winter Charlatan follows Rowan, the heir to Elenvérs who is destined to sleep for a hundred years and be woken by a stranger's kiss (and supposedly fall in love with said stranger). As a child, she gets switched out with the son of a close family friend, so while she grows up with a loving family, she doesn't grow up with her family. And she definitely has some bitter feelings about the close family friend's son being raised to take over the crown that she wants while she watches from the sidelines.
Rowan is such a well-written and interesting character - I loved seeing her character development over the course of the book as she learns in her own way what it means if she does break the curse successfully and achieves her goal of claiming her rightful place as the heir. As one character says to her at one point very early on as she's trying to find a way to break her curse, "I'm very curious how your story will play out," and that's exactly how I felt reading The Winter Charlatan the entire time.
As much as the book does have slow moments and is a gradual buildup, I enjoyed not just Rowan's character growth and world-building, but the court politics and relationship dynamics between the characters. Rowan isn't walking into her place as the heir with complete peace - not with threats of war from Elenvérs's neighbor, ThornHigh. Despite her hatred toward Cassian (the one she got switched with), the two of them work together in the better and common interest of putting their kingdom first, with Rowan acting as his spy in the ThornHigh court while acting as an emissary. I loved seeing the two try to work out their differences with each other, and Rowan's sisterly relationship with Elis. With everything going on, it was hard to tell if Rowan would end up as an antiheroine and who could be trusted, at least initially. There were some moments where things started to feel predictable, but in the grand scheme of things, that didn't ruin my enjoyment of the story overall.
I think my favorite part of The Winter Charlatan was the symbolism, and I honestly can't say more without giving away major spoilers. This was overall a lot of fun to read, and I'm excited for the next part of Rowan's story and the finale of the series.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts.
Where do I even begin?
The Winter Charlatan is the third book in Victoria McCombs's Storyteller's series, a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, and if Woods of Silver and Light was any indication, the story is set north of the first two books in the kingdom of Elenvérs, where the heir is destined to sleep for a hundred years.
This is, by far, my favorite book out of the Storyteller's series and not because Sleeping Beauty was my favorite fairy tale for the mere fact of sleep. (I was definitely that kid who liked naps but didn't actually nap.) There's a lot of growth to McCombs's writing from the first two books - as we travel across the freezing northern kingdom, the writing was immersive and descriptive and the pacing was far better balanced from the previous novels. Although the book definitely takes a page from the previous novels in starting out slow, it gradually builds up to the very end rather than ending abruptly, and perhaps that may be because this book and the next are connected together with the same main character and can't be read out of order like the first two.
The Winter Charlatan follows Rowan, the heir to Elenvérs who is destined to sleep for a hundred years and be woken by a stranger's kiss (and supposedly fall in love with said stranger). As a child, she gets switched out with the son of a close family friend, so while she grows up with a loving family, she doesn't grow up with her family. And she definitely has some bitter feelings about the close family friend's son being raised to take over the crown that she wants while she watches from the sidelines.
Rowan is such a well-written and interesting character - I loved seeing her character development over the course of the book as she learns in her own way what it means if she does break the curse successfully and achieves her goal of claiming her rightful place as the heir. As one character says to her at one point very early on as she's trying to find a way to break her curse, "I'm very curious how your story will play out," and that's exactly how I felt reading The Winter Charlatan the entire time.
As much as the book does have slow moments and is a gradual buildup, I enjoyed not just Rowan's character growth and world-building, but the court politics and relationship dynamics between the characters. Rowan isn't walking into her place as the heir with complete peace - not with threats of war from Elenvérs's neighbor, ThornHigh. Despite her hatred toward Cassian (the one she got switched with), the two of them work together in the better and common interest of putting their kingdom first, with Rowan acting as his spy in the ThornHigh court while acting as an emissary. I loved seeing the two try to work out their differences with each other, and Rowan's sisterly relationship with Elis. With everything going on, it was hard to tell if Rowan would end up as an antiheroine and who could be trusted, at least initially. There were some moments where things started to feel predictable, but in the grand scheme of things, that didn't ruin my enjoyment of the story overall.
I think my favorite part of The Winter Charlatan was the symbolism, and I honestly can't say more without giving away major spoilers. This was overall a lot of fun to read, and I'm excited for the next part of Rowan's story and the finale of the series.
This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts.
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