What do you think?
Rate this book
The Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles #1
Forgotten
Crown Princess Taryn is fully prepared to marry the man her parents have chosen for her in order to save her kingdom from ruin—until she falls for the son of her family’s greatest enemy, Crown Prince Xander. Despite their struggle to be the enemies expected of them, they cannot resist the secret friendship that transforms into a forbidden love. Regardless of their fear of discovery and the obstacles barring their way, they’re determined to find a way to be together, no matter the cost.
They secretly join forces in order to obtain a magical relic that they hope will bring peace to their divided kingdoms…a choice that comes at the cost of sacrificing the relic that would heal the drought afflicting the land. But during their quest, Xander is forced to make a sacrifice that freezes his heart and erases all memory of their love. With no recollection of the relationship they once shared, they revert to being the enemies they were born to be.
When Taryn finds herself imprisoned and at the mercy of the prince who has no memory of the relationship they once shared, she begins to remember their former feelings and resolves to find a way to reclaim the love they’ve forgotten. But can she do it before the curse robs them of it forever and Xander’s heart becomes permanently frozen? And even if she succeeds, how can she and Xander ever be together when their relationship remains forbidden?
Inspired by “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” and “The Snow Queen”
They secretly join forces in order to obtain a magical relic that they hope will bring peace to their divided kingdoms…a choice that comes at the cost of sacrificing the relic that would heal the drought afflicting the land. But during their quest, Xander is forced to make a sacrifice that freezes his heart and erases all memory of their love. With no recollection of the relationship they once shared, they revert to being the enemies they were born to be.
When Taryn finds herself imprisoned and at the mercy of the prince who has no memory of the relationship they once shared, she begins to remember their former feelings and resolves to find a way to reclaim the love they’ve forgotten. But can she do it before the curse robs them of it forever and Xander’s heart becomes permanently frozen? And even if she succeeds, how can she and Xander ever be together when their relationship remains forbidden?
Inspired by “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” and “The Snow Queen”
430 pages, Paperback
Published March 31, 2022
227 people are currently reading
674 people want to read
About the author
Camille Peters
35 books563 followersCamille Peters was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah where she grew up surrounded by books. As a child, she spent every spare moment reading and writing her own stories on every scrap of paper she could find. Becoming an author was always more than a childhood dream; it was a certainty.
Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.
Her love of writing grew alongside her as she took local writing classes in her teens, spent a year studying Creative Writing at the English University of Northampton, and graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in English and History. She’s now blessed to be a full-time author.
When she’s not writing she’s thinking about writing, and when’s she’s not thinking about writing she’s…alright, she’s always thinking about writing, but she can also be found reading, at the piano, playing board games with her family and friends, or taking long, bare-foot walks as she lives inside her imagination and brainstorms more tales.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
April 3, 2022
From the blurb, the book should've been perfect for me. As a lover of fairy tale retellings, I'm always on the lookout for new takes on my most favourite of them all, of which "East of the Sun & West of the Moon" is a variation, and on top of that, this claimed to include Andersen's fairy tale "The Snow Queen." Sounds perfect, right?
Unfortunately, I struggled with this so much I had to put it aside it for a day before resuming and crawling to the finish line. The story ticked several boxes from my list of aspects I find displeasing in retellings: its characters are royalty but think, talk, and behave like the stereotypical Regency novel protagonists instead of high nobility, so the overall feel is that of a mainstream Regency novel with a sprinkling of fantasy, my least favourite style for retellings because I need to feel that a society and culture that are their own, its own fairy tale-like world and not a reflection of an existing literary trope about a certain earthly period. There's lots of pomp & circumstances, protocol, tradition, rules, roles, expectations, duties, etc., that go with the title of prince and princess that the characters here simply don't adhere to.
I'm not a fan of sprawling series where everyone knows everyone and characters jump from book to book doing cameos. It's why I never read an entire series of fairy tale retellings but pick only one or three about my favourite tales. So, although I adored Enchantress Astrid's story very much, I wasn't happy at seeing her here. One downside of this series-wide intermingling of characters is that it makes the world feel like a village; there might be nine kingdoms in a continent the size of Europe or bigger, but this Prince A bumps into Princess B who then bumps into Princess C who then bumps into Princes D, E, F, G... etc., is off-putting for me personally, it makes the world feel underdeveloped and mostly decorative, like everything is taking place in nine towns within a 50-mile radius instead of nine kingdoms with different cultures, languages, and so on. I know royalty do know and mingle a lot and always have, but this is handled more like neighbours that go shopping at the same market than heads of state & their children dealing with demands of their position. See: Regency novel world.
Then there's the timeline, which is bumpy. It's generally not a good idea to drop the reader in media res when romance is a key plot, although it can be pulled off well. But to be parachuted 2 years into the story to only be pulled out and thrown back into time to explain things, and then thrown forward again, on and off for all of four years this story covers was distracting and very detrimental to my possibilities of getting immersed and caring for the characters.
And speaking of the characters, the relationship is probably my biggest disappointment. Unlike others that haven't minded it, I did mind that it wasn't a relationship built on-page and developed thenceforth, but one that was a fait accompli in the first chapter and then explained by the time jump backwards. I don't know you, but I hate seeing the protagonists already together instead of seeing them grow to love each other specifically in B&B retellings and derivations, because of my ideas about respecting the core of the original tale. Taryn and Xander are already an item in the beginning, and they're already kissing by the 19% mark, having merely met a couple or so times by accident and shared a few sentimental letters. That's too early to me, rushed, and too close to the insta-love trope, so I couldn't care about them and their relationship as a result. Why bother about how the endgame came to be when we already see them as an endgame? I couldn't.
And finally, the fairy tale elements were barely there. You have to deliberately look for them; if you came to the book blind and without reading the blurb, you'll never spot the nods to the fairy tales. See again: Regency novel. Without being told about the tales, it's practically indistinguishable from others of this same type of novels. So given that I was promised and expected a fairy tale to be integral to the retelling, of course I'm going to struggle for lack of interest once it's patent that it's but cursory. I know there's a large following for this type of sweet, heartwarming, clean stories where everyone ends up with babies and rainbows shining overhead, but it's honestly not my preference. I prefer more blood in my retellings.
As a positive, I liked Xander, though he felt a bit samey to other princes in the other retellings by Camille Peters. I think she's better when she deviates from the smirky-bantery charming crowned chaps and does a more serious, less borderline saint, and more questionable prince; and she's also great at it when she does slow-build relationships, probably because they're always more of a challenge.
I received an ARC through StoryOrigin in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I struggled with this so much I had to put it aside it for a day before resuming and crawling to the finish line. The story ticked several boxes from my list of aspects I find displeasing in retellings: its characters are royalty but think, talk, and behave like the stereotypical Regency novel protagonists instead of high nobility, so the overall feel is that of a mainstream Regency novel with a sprinkling of fantasy, my least favourite style for retellings because I need to feel that a society and culture that are their own, its own fairy tale-like world and not a reflection of an existing literary trope about a certain earthly period. There's lots of pomp & circumstances, protocol, tradition, rules, roles, expectations, duties, etc., that go with the title of prince and princess that the characters here simply don't adhere to.
I'm not a fan of sprawling series where everyone knows everyone and characters jump from book to book doing cameos. It's why I never read an entire series of fairy tale retellings but pick only one or three about my favourite tales. So, although I adored Enchantress Astrid's story very much, I wasn't happy at seeing her here. One downside of this series-wide intermingling of characters is that it makes the world feel like a village; there might be nine kingdoms in a continent the size of Europe or bigger, but this Prince A bumps into Princess B who then bumps into Princess C who then bumps into Princes D, E, F, G... etc., is off-putting for me personally, it makes the world feel underdeveloped and mostly decorative, like everything is taking place in nine towns within a 50-mile radius instead of nine kingdoms with different cultures, languages, and so on. I know royalty do know and mingle a lot and always have, but this is handled more like neighbours that go shopping at the same market than heads of state & their children dealing with demands of their position. See: Regency novel world.
Then there's the timeline, which is bumpy. It's generally not a good idea to drop the reader in media res when romance is a key plot, although it can be pulled off well. But to be parachuted 2 years into the story to only be pulled out and thrown back into time to explain things, and then thrown forward again, on and off for all of four years this story covers was distracting and very detrimental to my possibilities of getting immersed and caring for the characters.
And speaking of the characters, the relationship is probably my biggest disappointment. Unlike others that haven't minded it, I did mind that it wasn't a relationship built on-page and developed thenceforth, but one that was a fait accompli in the first chapter and then explained by the time jump backwards. I don't know you, but I hate seeing the protagonists already together instead of seeing them grow to love each other specifically in B&B retellings and derivations, because of my ideas about respecting the core of the original tale. Taryn and Xander are already an item in the beginning, and they're already kissing by the 19% mark, having merely met a couple or so times by accident and shared a few sentimental letters. That's too early to me, rushed, and too close to the insta-love trope, so I couldn't care about them and their relationship as a result. Why bother about how the endgame came to be when we already see them as an endgame? I couldn't.
And finally, the fairy tale elements were barely there. You have to deliberately look for them; if you came to the book blind and without reading the blurb, you'll never spot the nods to the fairy tales. See again: Regency novel. Without being told about the tales, it's practically indistinguishable from others of this same type of novels. So given that I was promised and expected a fairy tale to be integral to the retelling, of course I'm going to struggle for lack of interest once it's patent that it's but cursory. I know there's a large following for this type of sweet, heartwarming, clean stories where everyone ends up with babies and rainbows shining overhead, but it's honestly not my preference. I prefer more blood in my retellings.
As a positive, I liked Xander, though he felt a bit samey to other princes in the other retellings by Camille Peters. I think she's better when she deviates from the smirky-bantery charming crowned chaps and does a more serious, less borderline saint, and more questionable prince; and she's also great at it when she does slow-build relationships, probably because they're always more of a challenge.
I received an ARC through StoryOrigin in exchange for an honest review.
Read
March 22, 2022While each of the stories I’ve written are special to me, this one has become my new favorite considering how much fun I had in exploring the idea and writing it. I not only love how the story unfolded but my hero and heroine, Xander and Taryn, have become one of my favorite couples. It was such a pleasure to tell their story.
This book began with one of the ideas I've been most excited for ever since I discovered it nearly two years ago. It waited patiently for its turn to be told until a time I was beginning to feel burned out and that I was losing some of the writing love that had brought me to this point. Through it, I rediscovered the magic and joy that comes from writing. I’m so grateful it helped me rekindle my passion. I hope it brings as much magic and joy to your life as it did to mine in creating it.
This book began with one of the ideas I've been most excited for ever since I discovered it nearly two years ago. It waited patiently for its turn to be told until a time I was beginning to feel burned out and that I was losing some of the writing love that had brought me to this point. Through it, I rediscovered the magic and joy that comes from writing. I’m so grateful it helped me rekindle my passion. I hope it brings as much magic and joy to your life as it did to mine in creating it.
April 28, 2022
Looking for a fabulous forbidden romance? Have I got the book for you! I had the wonderful privilege of beta reading Forgotten by Camille Peters 💕💖 and oh my goodness what a delightful book!
Camille Peters has crafted a tale that captured me from page one. I literally couldn't put it down! I just had to know what Taryn was up to and what exactly was going on with her and Xander, not to mention how. And the building of their romance was just so excellent! So many stolen moments and kisses along with the fear and concern for how they could ever be together. Then when Xander's heart was frozen! Not only was their forbidden romance impossible but how would they ever remember their love? Not to mention help save their Kingdoms.
This book was full of delightful characters and banter, not to mention kisses, an adventure full of unexpected twists and turns. I can't wait to see what Camille Peters has in store for me next😍! If you haven't read anything by Camille Peters yet, I strongly recommend starting with this delightful tale!!!
Camille Peters has crafted a tale that captured me from page one. I literally couldn't put it down! I just had to know what Taryn was up to and what exactly was going on with her and Xander, not to mention how. And the building of their romance was just so excellent! So many stolen moments and kisses along with the fear and concern for how they could ever be together. Then when Xander's heart was frozen! Not only was their forbidden romance impossible but how would they ever remember their love? Not to mention help save their Kingdoms.
This book was full of delightful characters and banter, not to mention kisses, an adventure full of unexpected twists and turns. I can't wait to see what Camille Peters has in store for me next😍! If you haven't read anything by Camille Peters yet, I strongly recommend starting with this delightful tale!!!
April 24, 2022
I have to tell you that I read through this one pretty fast! And I have to admit that I'm not very familiar with this particular fairytale that the author was doing a retelling of. But I enjoyed it. I was excited to see how she would create this world and characters and retelling. Now I'm curious to learn more about the original so I can see what this retelling pulls from it.
Princess Taryn and Prince Xander live in kingdoms that are very, very opposed to the other. They have no understanding as to why but know that the other is bad. That is until they meet, without knowing who the other is, and sparks fly.
They are pretty fun to watch together and the chemistry between them is pretty palpable. I loved watching how the author arranged for them to meet and stay connected even though they aren't supposed to know each other at all.
The book starts out in current time and might leave you guessing for a few minutes but then we start getting some flashbacks. They're both on a quest to discover a relic and hope to be the first to find it.
This was a fun adventure of enemies-to-more, forbidden love, secret love, with lots of great scenes and stolen moments. But watch out when everything is discovered. The real question is how are they going to break the curse that happens upon them and they can't remember who the other is? Oh my!
The beginning of the book was a little slow for me but then it picked up and I read and read and read until I had finished it. So if it feels a little slow to you just stick with it, I promise it is worth it!
There are several characters throughout the book that I kept hoping would be one of the ones who would be getting their own book in this new series by Camille Peters. There's one in particular whom I'm hoping will have a redemptive story arc. Fingers crossed!
Dive in for some sweet friendship and romance, adventure, secrets, family drama, sneaking around, falling in love and much more!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author via StoryOrigin. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Princess Taryn and Prince Xander live in kingdoms that are very, very opposed to the other. They have no understanding as to why but know that the other is bad. That is until they meet, without knowing who the other is, and sparks fly.
They are pretty fun to watch together and the chemistry between them is pretty palpable. I loved watching how the author arranged for them to meet and stay connected even though they aren't supposed to know each other at all.
The book starts out in current time and might leave you guessing for a few minutes but then we start getting some flashbacks. They're both on a quest to discover a relic and hope to be the first to find it.
This was a fun adventure of enemies-to-more, forbidden love, secret love, with lots of great scenes and stolen moments. But watch out when everything is discovered. The real question is how are they going to break the curse that happens upon them and they can't remember who the other is? Oh my!
The beginning of the book was a little slow for me but then it picked up and I read and read and read until I had finished it. So if it feels a little slow to you just stick with it, I promise it is worth it!
There are several characters throughout the book that I kept hoping would be one of the ones who would be getting their own book in this new series by Camille Peters. There's one in particular whom I'm hoping will have a redemptive story arc. Fingers crossed!
Dive in for some sweet friendship and romance, adventure, secrets, family drama, sneaking around, falling in love and much more!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author via StoryOrigin. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
October 10, 2025
this was so different from her other books.
xander and taryn were definitely very cute, but the writing could've been sm better😭
lolll
they used the word 'love' 324 times!!!
i was so tired of reading that word time and again.
the premise was interesting, but the details were js brushed over.
but overall, it was really enjoyable, ngl
April 2, 2022
This book was amazing!! I’ve found that I really like “The Snow Queen” retellings and this one was just amazing. Also, the cover is stunning!
Taryn and Xander’s love story was beautiful! I loved these two! I especially loved Xander.
I really like how there were flashbacks from when they first met. That made the “forgetting” so much more emotional for me! Their banter was just great. They kept me snickering and smiling.☺️
Forbidden love stories always break my heart, especially when the characters forget each other, but this one broke my heart and then slowly put it back together again.💙Watching Taryn and Xander’s journey together was emotional and beautiful to read!
The plot was so good! It kept me intrigued and invested the whole time. There was always plenty happening.
Content notes: This book is clean. There is quite a bit of kissing, a little more than I usually like, but nothing beyond that. There is very little violence. No language.
In conclusion, I loved this book! While the romance was a little heavier than I typically like, I still really enjoyed the story. It was unique. It was a perfect combination of romance, humor, adventure, action, and emotion. If you love fairytale retellings and forbidden love stories, this one was so good!
Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC in exchange for a review! All opinions are my own.
Taryn and Xander’s love story was beautiful! I loved these two! I especially loved Xander.
I really like how there were flashbacks from when they first met. That made the “forgetting” so much more emotional for me! Their banter was just great. They kept me snickering and smiling.☺️
Forbidden love stories always break my heart, especially when the characters forget each other, but this one broke my heart and then slowly put it back together again.💙Watching Taryn and Xander’s journey together was emotional and beautiful to read!
The plot was so good! It kept me intrigued and invested the whole time. There was always plenty happening.
Content notes: This book is clean. There is quite a bit of kissing, a little more than I usually like, but nothing beyond that. There is very little violence. No language.
In conclusion, I loved this book! While the romance was a little heavier than I typically like, I still really enjoyed the story. It was unique. It was a perfect combination of romance, humor, adventure, action, and emotion. If you love fairytale retellings and forbidden love stories, this one was so good!
Thank you to the author for sending me an eARC in exchange for a review! All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2022
Wow. I don't even have words for how AMAZING this book was. It's very different from Camille's other books, but just as good. To start off, it's dual POV, something Camille hasn't done before but I loved it. Next, this story takes place across four years, the longest timeline she's written, and while I normally don't like time jumps, Camille handles them perfectly. The story starts off about two years into the story timeline, but quickly jumps back to the beginning, when Taryn and Xander first meet and how their relationship came to be, considering they are heirs to enemy kingdoms. I fell in love with the couple immediately and it broke my heart when Xander had to make the ultimate sacrifice that drastically shifted the story's tone and the characters themselves. Y'all this book made me tear up, which is basically sobbing for me. The theme of hope threaded through the story among the heartbreak and hopelessness was exactly what I needed to read right now. I also loved the fairy tale elements sprinkled through, easy to miss if you don't know the original fairy tales. The Snow Queen is my absolute favorite fairy tale and I've wanted to see more retellings of East of the Sun, West of the Moon. Camille did a fabulous job in blending the fairy tales seamlessly together while also having her own unique story told. This has to be my new favorite book of all time (yes you read that right).
April 2, 2022
I absolutely loved this book. From the opening scene all the way through to the epilogue, it was full of so many fun and unexpected twists to make the journey worthwhile.
One thing that made this enjoyable for me was — unlike most other books I have read — this one tells the story from multiple points of view. This lets the reader experience the action first-hand, rather than be told about it later by another character. And because many of the events take place while the couple are apart, this was a key reason for why the story works as well as it does.
I also enjoyed how it uses a non-linear format to show us what has happened. For example, the first chapter starts with a bang. As I was experiencing the events unfold there, there were many questions raised in my mind — "how did this happen, and what will happen next?" — which served to drive me forward in hopes of uncovering the answers. Fortunately I was not disappointed, with chapter two jumping back in time to begin the process of bringing us up to date.
Besides an interesting and compelling story, Taryn and Xander were perfect for each other. They had a delightfully playful relationship, but also had a deep willingness to sacrifice for each other. But most of all, they refused to accept the society they lived in. Why should customs and prejudice tell us who we are allowed to love, and who we are not? They rejected this and found a way forward through these obstacles to find happiness. Although I am too old for that kind of thing in my own life nowadays, I still found it very inspiring, and I am sure there are many in today's world who will draw strength from their success.
One thing that made this enjoyable for me was — unlike most other books I have read — this one tells the story from multiple points of view. This lets the reader experience the action first-hand, rather than be told about it later by another character. And because many of the events take place while the couple are apart, this was a key reason for why the story works as well as it does.
I also enjoyed how it uses a non-linear format to show us what has happened. For example, the first chapter starts with a bang. As I was experiencing the events unfold there, there were many questions raised in my mind — "how did this happen, and what will happen next?" — which served to drive me forward in hopes of uncovering the answers. Fortunately I was not disappointed, with chapter two jumping back in time to begin the process of bringing us up to date.
Besides an interesting and compelling story, Taryn and Xander were perfect for each other. They had a delightfully playful relationship, but also had a deep willingness to sacrifice for each other. But most of all, they refused to accept the society they lived in. Why should customs and prejudice tell us who we are allowed to love, and who we are not? They rejected this and found a way forward through these obstacles to find happiness. Although I am too old for that kind of thing in my own life nowadays, I still found it very inspiring, and I am sure there are many in today's world who will draw strength from their success.
April 15, 2022
I really like this new series from Peters. She has an imagination like no other and can breath new life an a new web into everything she writes. I really liked how she included flashbacks to add depth to not only the characters, but also to their relationship. So many times I read a book, and it seems so superficial, no depth. Nothing that will make the relationship weather a storm. This book, however, is written over a period of many years. There is a growth of love, not an Insta that is wonderful. The plot is well written and the pace is really nice so you don't have a hard time trying to read it, instead you enjoy reading it. I can't wait for more in this series!!
Thank you to Camille Peters for an ARC in exchange for a fair review. These opinions are my own.
Thank you to Camille Peters for an ARC in exchange for a fair review. These opinions are my own.
March 31, 2022
I LOVED Forgotten!!! This story is absolutely incredible, and I find it both romantic and adventurous! I was so fascinated with the relics, and the tension between the two kingdoms adds so much emotion and excitement to the story! I loved seeing how Taryn and Xander resolve the unique situation they find themself in. The ending was so satisfying to me, and I can’t wait to see what happens in future books with characters we meet in this one! I am SO excited for this new series!!
June 23, 2024
Any teenage girl who follows the road of temptation as Taryn does will end up an unwed teen mom. This is not inspirational example at all.
August 4, 2022
This is book one in a new series in a new fairy tale world by Camille Peters. This author always has such a lovely way of building worlds and delving into the inner turmoil of her characters.
This particular book is basically a mash up between East of the Sun, West of the Moon and Romeo and Juliet. It was such a unique pairing, and I loved the forbidden romance part of it!
There were a few places were the book felt like it lagged, but that could have been my personal preference. The ending was WELL worth it, and I was on pins and needles wondering how in the world these characters were going to get their happy ending!
The audiobook was well done, as always!
This particular book is basically a mash up between East of the Sun, West of the Moon and Romeo and Juliet. It was such a unique pairing, and I loved the forbidden romance part of it!
There were a few places were the book felt like it lagged, but that could have been my personal preference. The ending was WELL worth it, and I was on pins and needles wondering how in the world these characters were going to get their happy ending!
The audiobook was well done, as always!
April 28, 2022
I really enjoyed this novel. It was a romantic story that really showed an interesting world. I liked the writing style, I found it sucked me in and kept me reading. I am really interested in reading other books from this author because I think they would be really good.
That being said, I wanted more from this story. I wish the story had been a little longer, just so there was enough time for things to develop and be explored. There was a lot crammed into these pages, so it ended up feeling a little rushed. I don't think I got a good sense of the characters, it actually took most of the book before I really got invested in their story. What kept me going was the writing style and the curiosity about the world and how things would play out, it would have been perfect if the characters had been a bit better.
The way time moved in the story was interesting. I don't think I have quite seen a story written with time jumps like this. I'm sure they exist, I just haven't read them. I'm not sure how I feel about it. I do like having that retrospective look at the story. It gave it a certain tone that I felt was different. If things had been linear perhaps the issue of not feeling connected to the characters would have been different, but the story would have had a different tone, so I don't know which I would have preferred. I think with the time jumps it had a sort of secretive feel to it. Which worked well with the story. I think one or two of the time jumps was a little difficult for me to remember how much time had passed, but that is a fault of my own for not remembering.
I wanted to see more of the world explored. Most of the focus was placed on the interaction between the characters, so I didn't really get a good sense of the magic system, or how all of the politics worked between people. I think I was just so interested in every aspect of the story that I wanted to know far more than was necessary for this book.
Also, I would have liked to see more of the fairytale elements in it. I love fairytale retellings and that was why I was drawn to this story to begin with. I just didn't see enough of them within the story for me to get a strong sense of those original tales. However, this story was still a good story that did have those things mixed in, it just didn't feel like a retelling. If you didn't know they were there, you probably could have missed them. However, I think the story was good without them. Too much would have changed this story into something it didn't need to be.
Overall, this was a cute romance story with a lot of interesting twists. I felt like there was a lot to like about it, even if I would have liked to see a bit more from it. Like I said, I really liked the writing style and plan to read more from this author.
I read an ARC of this book for free, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
That being said, I wanted more from this story. I wish the story had been a little longer, just so there was enough time for things to develop and be explored. There was a lot crammed into these pages, so it ended up feeling a little rushed. I don't think I got a good sense of the characters, it actually took most of the book before I really got invested in their story. What kept me going was the writing style and the curiosity about the world and how things would play out, it would have been perfect if the characters had been a bit better.
The way time moved in the story was interesting. I don't think I have quite seen a story written with time jumps like this. I'm sure they exist, I just haven't read them. I'm not sure how I feel about it. I do like having that retrospective look at the story. It gave it a certain tone that I felt was different. If things had been linear perhaps the issue of not feeling connected to the characters would have been different, but the story would have had a different tone, so I don't know which I would have preferred. I think with the time jumps it had a sort of secretive feel to it. Which worked well with the story. I think one or two of the time jumps was a little difficult for me to remember how much time had passed, but that is a fault of my own for not remembering.
I wanted to see more of the world explored. Most of the focus was placed on the interaction between the characters, so I didn't really get a good sense of the magic system, or how all of the politics worked between people. I think I was just so interested in every aspect of the story that I wanted to know far more than was necessary for this book.
Also, I would have liked to see more of the fairytale elements in it. I love fairytale retellings and that was why I was drawn to this story to begin with. I just didn't see enough of them within the story for me to get a strong sense of those original tales. However, this story was still a good story that did have those things mixed in, it just didn't feel like a retelling. If you didn't know they were there, you probably could have missed them. However, I think the story was good without them. Too much would have changed this story into something it didn't need to be.
Overall, this was a cute romance story with a lot of interesting twists. I felt like there was a lot to like about it, even if I would have liked to see a bit more from it. Like I said, I really liked the writing style and plan to read more from this author.
I read an ARC of this book for free, and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
April 24, 2022
Wow, what a beautiful, heartbreaking, emotional, yet hope filled story!! 😭😭😍😍 I cried, I laughed, I feared, and I hoped with and for these characters. Camille Peters did an incredible job at weaving a story of fighting for true love no matter the costs, refusing to give in to traditions simply because that’s what’s expected of them. Taryn and Xander are royalty from feuding kingdoms, destined enemies, but when they meet, they discover the other kingdom isn’t so bad, and that maybe they shouldn’t be enemies for the sake of being enemies.
The progression of their romance was written so well, from strangers to friends, and eventually, lovers. Their connection and chemistry was on point and so believable, they truly went together so well!! Even before loving each other, they made such great friends, which I loved seeing! 😍😍 The way they stayed true to each other during the many separations, anxiously waiting between each letter, and literally counted they days until they managed to see each other again was so sad yet beautiful at the same time. These characters had one of the best, wholesome, and strongest romance I’ve seen, and I loved seeing them fight for it against all odds!!
And odds there were. At some points I wondered how on earth they could ever be together, there was so much stacked against them and their love. (This is in the description so I don’t think it’s a spoiler, but just in case you might want to skip ahead) And then when she was cursed and Xander sacrificed his love for her, becoming cold hearted and unloving. 😭😭😭 That was HARD to read! 😭 (end spoiler)
And it’s completely clean! I thought Camille did a great job writing a passionate romance without too much description or anything inappropriate.
Forgotten is a big book, so it did drag a little at times, but I still thoroughly enjoyed this book and beautiful story!! 😍😍😍
The progression of their romance was written so well, from strangers to friends, and eventually, lovers. Their connection and chemistry was on point and so believable, they truly went together so well!! Even before loving each other, they made such great friends, which I loved seeing! 😍😍 The way they stayed true to each other during the many separations, anxiously waiting between each letter, and literally counted they days until they managed to see each other again was so sad yet beautiful at the same time. These characters had one of the best, wholesome, and strongest romance I’ve seen, and I loved seeing them fight for it against all odds!!
And odds there were. At some points I wondered how on earth they could ever be together, there was so much stacked against them and their love. (This is in the description so I don’t think it’s a spoiler, but just in case you might want to skip ahead) And then when she was cursed and Xander sacrificed his love for her, becoming cold hearted and unloving. 😭😭😭 That was HARD to read! 😭 (end spoiler)
And it’s completely clean! I thought Camille did a great job writing a passionate romance without too much description or anything inappropriate.
Forgotten is a big book, so it did drag a little at times, but I still thoroughly enjoyed this book and beautiful story!! 😍😍😍
January 14, 2026
The very thing that drew me in at the start was the thing that drove me insane for the rest of the book. It was obvious the author wanted to have as much "flirty banter" as possible, but it seems that while she was busy writing "interesting quips" and the same declarations of love in slightly different words for the millionth time - she forgot to add the plot. Where is it???
At first, I found the MCs interactions as cute and would read their witty comebacks like "aww look at them pretend to hate each other but actually fake it"....then I read the next 50 pages and I was like "umm we're literally still in the same dialogue, when will they stop talking and do something?" then I read the next 50 pages and THEY WERE STILL JUST TALKING.
This whole book is one giant mix of past and present conversations where they switch from fawning all over each other in word form to whining how they can't be together. This exact same conversation repeats, albeit with some other synonims and then the book ends with an over-the-top HEA.
To make things worse, there were a couple of time jumps besides all the "past/present" POVs changing. The little bit of plot we got was full of holes, but it doesn't matter since every problem gets resolved in the last few chapters.
At first, I found the MCs interactions as cute and would read their witty comebacks like "aww look at them pretend to hate each other but actually fake it"....then I read the next 50 pages and I was like "umm we're literally still in the same dialogue, when will they stop talking and do something?" then I read the next 50 pages and THEY WERE STILL JUST TALKING.
This whole book is one giant mix of past and present conversations where they switch from fawning all over each other in word form to whining how they can't be together. This exact same conversation repeats, albeit with some other synonims and then the book ends with an over-the-top HEA.
To make things worse, there were a couple of time jumps besides all the "past/present" POVs changing. The little bit of plot we got was full of holes, but it doesn't matter since every problem gets resolved in the last few chapters.
March 28, 2022
This was one of the most delightful, engaging, and romantic stories I've read in a long time. From the first page I was thoroughly enthralled with Taryn and Xander's romance, which for the first part of the book we see unfold through flashbacks as well as present day, building up to the moment when it takes such an unexpected turn. And from there...I literally couldn't put the book down, desperate to continue until our beloved couple received their happily ever after that, for so long, seemed so impossible. But even so, the journey to getting there was truly delightful.
I loved both our hero and heroine, but I especially adored Xander, who may be a contender for my favorite hero in this author's books (alongside Ronan and Liam). Taryn and Xander truly share a beautiful connection and a romance that was both tender and humorous in how they navigate their forbidden but close relationship. Everything seems so impossible and I couldn't imagine how our couple would overcome all the obstacles, and couldn't put the book down until I found out.
Not only was the romance wonderful, but the plot was so interesting and paced very well. I also adored the subtle but wonderful allusions to the original fairytales, both whose elements were used in such creative ways. They truly enhanced an already wonderful story.
This is definitely my new favorite from this author. Forgotten is truly a promising beginning of a new fairytale series set in an intriguing new world. I can't wait to see which character from the new cast has their story told next!
I loved both our hero and heroine, but I especially adored Xander, who may be a contender for my favorite hero in this author's books (alongside Ronan and Liam). Taryn and Xander truly share a beautiful connection and a romance that was both tender and humorous in how they navigate their forbidden but close relationship. Everything seems so impossible and I couldn't imagine how our couple would overcome all the obstacles, and couldn't put the book down until I found out.
Not only was the romance wonderful, but the plot was so interesting and paced very well. I also adored the subtle but wonderful allusions to the original fairytales, both whose elements were used in such creative ways. They truly enhanced an already wonderful story.
This is definitely my new favorite from this author. Forgotten is truly a promising beginning of a new fairytale series set in an intriguing new world. I can't wait to see which character from the new cast has their story told next!
April 9, 2022
I really enjoyed this story. At times, the story was too stressful for me and I had to put the book down for a bit, but other times I was so drawn into the story that it was difficult to put down. The story had twists and turns that I didn't expect. I loved the characters, both the main characters and many of the side characters. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
Content: clean
Content: clean
April 10, 2022
I admit I wasn't too excited at first when I learned that Camille Peters' new book, Forgotten would be based on one of my least favorite fairy tales "East of the Sun and West of the Moon." However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it bears little resemblance to this story is actually a stealth retelling of "Romeo and Juliet." It is a heartfelt tale of forbidden love and all the trials and tribulations that come with it. This book evokes some heavy emotions that I really appreciate during a time when most stories have become more about politics than feelings. I found myself drawn to the characters and their surprisingly steamy romance. This is the first Camille Peters book set in this world that I feel stands on its own as an original classic.
Princess Taryn has a secret. Though she is loyal to her crown, she is also in love with the enemy prince, Xander, and will not let logic or reason stop her from sneaking away to be with him even if it kills her. Xander is obsessed with Taryn but must pretend to hate her in public for fear of what might happen if his wicked father learns of their secret rendezvous behind closed doors. The first half of the book explores the lovers' facade until Xander must make the ultimate sacrifice to save Taryn. Can these star-crossed lovers find each other again when they have no memory of their relationship? The heartwrenching conclusion triggers many strong emotions as Taryn and Xander struggle to break the spell that caused them to lose the most precious thing in their lives.
As usual with Camille Peters, the love story is by far the strongest aspect of Forgotten. When it comes to "Romeo and Juliet" type stories, the most important thing is to make the romance believable. Taryn and Xander have a very physical relationship, which is surprising considering this series is usually squeaky clean. Though nothing in the book goes beyond what would be considered a PG rating, it is the most riskqué story in the Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles thus far. These two can't keep their hands off each other. At times, the romance between Taryn and Xander can be a bit superficial and feels more it draws from the excitement of sneaking around and being naughty than a genuine bond. However, it is made clear through the passage of time and their many letters, which read more like private messages on a dating app, that they are completely devoted to each other.
The book is not without its flaws. I found it difficult to suspend my disbelief for certain elements of the world, namely the "relics," which are similar to the enchanted jewels from Princess Gwenevere and the Jewel Riders. It is a tradition for future kings and queens to find a magic relic for their kingdom as a rite of passage for the throne. However, it is not explained how these relics got lost in the first place and why each monarch can only obtain one. If there are such powerful items scattered throughout the land, wouldn't there be other people looking for them as well? What do future monarchs do after all the relics are claimed? It's also unclear how the relics' powers work. For instance, Taryn and Xander spend a good portion of the book seeking the Relic of Peace to end the feud between their two kingdoms, but how would it do that without brainwashing their citizens to lose their memories of the feud in the first place? These two lovers should know all too well how dangerous the effects of magical amnesia can be.
Overall, Forgotten is a touching love story that will tug at your heartstrings. It addresses many of the challenges that Romeo and Juliet would have had to face before their tragic downfall. The risqué romance gives this book an older target audience than many of the others in this series. The adventure and heartbreak of Taryn and Xander's relationship allow readers to overlook many of the plot details that don't make sense. I was also touched by Taryn's friendship with her royal guard, Elowen, and hope to see more of her in a future book. Forgotten is a must-read for fans of forbidden lovers and fairy tales.
Princess Taryn has a secret. Though she is loyal to her crown, she is also in love with the enemy prince, Xander, and will not let logic or reason stop her from sneaking away to be with him even if it kills her. Xander is obsessed with Taryn but must pretend to hate her in public for fear of what might happen if his wicked father learns of their secret rendezvous behind closed doors. The first half of the book explores the lovers' facade until Xander must make the ultimate sacrifice to save Taryn. Can these star-crossed lovers find each other again when they have no memory of their relationship? The heartwrenching conclusion triggers many strong emotions as Taryn and Xander struggle to break the spell that caused them to lose the most precious thing in their lives.
As usual with Camille Peters, the love story is by far the strongest aspect of Forgotten. When it comes to "Romeo and Juliet" type stories, the most important thing is to make the romance believable. Taryn and Xander have a very physical relationship, which is surprising considering this series is usually squeaky clean. Though nothing in the book goes beyond what would be considered a PG rating, it is the most riskqué story in the Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles thus far. These two can't keep their hands off each other. At times, the romance between Taryn and Xander can be a bit superficial and feels more it draws from the excitement of sneaking around and being naughty than a genuine bond. However, it is made clear through the passage of time and their many letters, which read more like private messages on a dating app, that they are completely devoted to each other.
The book is not without its flaws. I found it difficult to suspend my disbelief for certain elements of the world, namely the "relics," which are similar to the enchanted jewels from Princess Gwenevere and the Jewel Riders. It is a tradition for future kings and queens to find a magic relic for their kingdom as a rite of passage for the throne. However, it is not explained how these relics got lost in the first place and why each monarch can only obtain one. If there are such powerful items scattered throughout the land, wouldn't there be other people looking for them as well? What do future monarchs do after all the relics are claimed? It's also unclear how the relics' powers work. For instance, Taryn and Xander spend a good portion of the book seeking the Relic of Peace to end the feud between their two kingdoms, but how would it do that without brainwashing their citizens to lose their memories of the feud in the first place? These two lovers should know all too well how dangerous the effects of magical amnesia can be.
Overall, Forgotten is a touching love story that will tug at your heartstrings. It addresses many of the challenges that Romeo and Juliet would have had to face before their tragic downfall. The risqué romance gives this book an older target audience than many of the others in this series. The adventure and heartbreak of Taryn and Xander's relationship allow readers to overlook many of the plot details that don't make sense. I was also touched by Taryn's friendship with her royal guard, Elowen, and hope to see more of her in a future book. Forgotten is a must-read for fans of forbidden lovers and fairy tales.
April 10, 2022
Don't know what to say about this book. On the one hand I enjoyed it and couldn't put it down, on the other it was somehow too long (comprising three parts, each somewhat their own story) and very repetitive, especially that bittersweetness of loving and having to let go - better loving than forgetting - cannot letting go for that love is too precious to be lost - every other sentence! Maybe if I was more immersed in the story, it would have been perfect torment.
Although I immediately enjoyed Xander and Taryn at first, their (repetitive) banter was always on the edge between endearing and annoying. I guess to drive their remembering of their time together home for the reader when certain key phrases appear over and over again. But that pushed especially the middle part with thawing a frozen heart for me more to annoying than endearing side.
And I am not a fan of letting time for the characters pass by starting a chapter with "11 months later" (what? They just been cursed, and are left like that?)
Also their love for each other was more told than felt, their blossoming love somehow had too little space, even though the book was already long. I know their love was forbidden and had to develop through stolen moments, but it seemed or rather felt too little for that magnitude.
I love The Kingdom Chronicles, especially Identity and Turret, where the author takes time for her character's love or personal development, and although the book was long and repetitive, somehow that was missing here for me. I think this story would have benefited from being told in several books, each part its own?
Loved the split POV though! Always happy to read both sides!
Although I immediately enjoyed Xander and Taryn at first, their (repetitive) banter was always on the edge between endearing and annoying. I guess to drive their remembering of their time together home for the reader when certain key phrases appear over and over again. But that pushed especially the middle part with thawing a frozen heart for me more to annoying than endearing side.
And I am not a fan of letting time for the characters pass by starting a chapter with "11 months later" (what? They just been cursed, and are left like that?)
Also their love for each other was more told than felt, their blossoming love somehow had too little space, even though the book was already long. I know their love was forbidden and had to develop through stolen moments, but it seemed or rather felt too little for that magnitude.
I love The Kingdom Chronicles, especially Identity and Turret, where the author takes time for her character's love or personal development, and although the book was long and repetitive, somehow that was missing here for me. I think this story would have benefited from being told in several books, each part its own?
Loved the split POV though! Always happy to read both sides!
July 3, 2022
Engaging book with some great world building. I love how skilled Camille Peters is at building the worlds of her characters. The idea of relics is one I hope to continue exploring in future books. The characters were fun; Peters did an excellent job of creating memorable moments that became key later on. I think Xander is one of the stronger characters Peters has written. Taryn was okay though think I liked her most when seen from Xander's POV. At a few points, her emotional reactions seemed a bit too extreme, but those moments did give her a unique personality compared to other female characters. Together, I enjoyed their romance.
I think the pacing was fairly good. The beginning is spent bouncing back and forth between the present day and the past, which is a little disorienting at first but made sense later. I was a little disappointed that the Snow Queen section was only about 30% of the book. Personally, I was hoping that would take a larger, more central part of the plot. Nonetheless, this book was still a good read with an engaging set of characters and plot. I would recommend this to older teens (15+) due to the larger role physical affection takes this time than in previous books by this author. (The book was still perfectly clean).
*I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review*
I think the pacing was fairly good. The beginning is spent bouncing back and forth between the present day and the past, which is a little disorienting at first but made sense later. I was a little disappointed that the Snow Queen section was only about 30% of the book. Personally, I was hoping that would take a larger, more central part of the plot. Nonetheless, this book was still a good read with an engaging set of characters and plot. I would recommend this to older teens (15+) due to the larger role physical affection takes this time than in previous books by this author. (The book was still perfectly clean).
*I received a free ARC in exchange for an honest review*
October 22, 2024
Plot didn't make sense. Narrator emphasizes multiple times how absolutely nobody can know about the secret lovers. Yet somehow they exchanged many letters that led them to fall in love. How was that possible???
June 19, 2024
I loved this book and I’m looking forward to the next one for this series!
September 26, 2022
First, the good: the author had me absolutely hooked from the beginning, and I found the book so page-turning that I binged it in one day. I loved Xander and Taryn, whose chemistry was so heady and delicious that it had my own stomach fluttering and spine tingling, and I couldn’t get enough of the development of their relationship (the first third of the book); it was just perfection. The romance is passionate but clean.
However, I can’t give the book five stars because of some flaws. First, there were some plot holes and inconsistencies as well as some typographical, grammatical, and homophone mistakes that stood out like annoying distractions. Second, in the latter half of the book, the writing dragged, with too much of Taryn and Xander agonizing to themselves and each other about their feelings and their seemingly impossible situation, without any effort to actually come up with solutions, while I, the reader, was constantly thinking, “Why don’t they do this or that?” or “Couldn’t they try such-and-such?” over and over.
Relatedly, the author was too focused on the two of them, to the exclusion of their relationships with virtually anyone else, including close family and friends (except for Xander’s evil father). For example, Taryn's parents don’t have anything to do with the plot until the very end, leaving me wondering what they were like, what her relationship with them was, and why she never tried to explain anything to them, not even ever attempting to plant seeds of change by discussing how to improve the situation between the two nations, or imparting the rather vital information that the Crown Prince of the neighboring kingdom that they were perpetually on the brink of war with seems like he's actually a really good guy who wants peace.
Though the book could have used some better editing, still it was definitely good enough for me to try another one of this new-to-me author’s books, and it has me eagerly awaiting the second book in this series to see how some open questions about the kingdoms and other characters are resolved.
However, I can’t give the book five stars because of some flaws. First, there were some plot holes and inconsistencies as well as some typographical, grammatical, and homophone mistakes that stood out like annoying distractions. Second, in the latter half of the book, the writing dragged, with too much of Taryn and Xander agonizing to themselves and each other about their feelings and their seemingly impossible situation, without any effort to actually come up with solutions, while I, the reader, was constantly thinking, “Why don’t they do this or that?” or “Couldn’t they try such-and-such?” over and over.
Relatedly, the author was too focused on the two of them, to the exclusion of their relationships with virtually anyone else, including close family and friends (except for Xander’s evil father). For example, Taryn's parents don’t have anything to do with the plot until the very end, leaving me wondering what they were like, what her relationship with them was, and why she never tried to explain anything to them, not even ever attempting to plant seeds of change by discussing how to improve the situation between the two nations, or imparting the rather vital information that the Crown Prince of the neighboring kingdom that they were perpetually on the brink of war with seems like he's actually a really good guy who wants peace.
Though the book could have used some better editing, still it was definitely good enough for me to try another one of this new-to-me author’s books, and it has me eagerly awaiting the second book in this series to see how some open questions about the kingdoms and other characters are resolved.
April 4, 2022
4.5 stars
So this book took me a little while to get into. I loved the book and the premise but I struggled a bit to connect with the story. However it was still an amazing book with a stunning cover! Forgotten is the first book in Camille Peter’s new series, The Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles. This is set in a new world and I am excited to see what stories Peter writes.
Taryn was an interesting character. I was kind of conflicted reading about her but I grew to like her by the end of the story. She wanted to protect her people but she also wanted to follow her heart. Taryn has to work through whether she would sacrifice her love for the good of her people. There were times where Taryn seemed selfish but I liked seeing her grow and learn to consider others. Taryn had a lot to work through, but she was willing to fight for what she believed in and learn from her mistakes.
I loved Xander from the beginning. He was charming and kind. I enjoyed reading about him. He loved Taryn and wanted to keep her safe. It was sweet to read about him trying to protect her. But when Xander’s heart is frozen, he will have to fight about the darkness that surrounds him to protect Taryn. Xander had to struggle to find the light and fight against his father’s evil plans.
Xander and Taryn were a cute couple! I really liked how we got to read of them falling in love. Their romance did not feel rushed. I also liked the easy way they communicated with each other, they really had a connection. I also love how Peters introduced other characters and I am excited to read their stories.
Forgotten was a fun book and I would definitely recommend it! I really like the twits that Peters wrote on East of the Sun, West of the Moon, and The Snow Queen. Forgotten is a clean fairy tale retelling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
So this book took me a little while to get into. I loved the book and the premise but I struggled a bit to connect with the story. However it was still an amazing book with a stunning cover! Forgotten is the first book in Camille Peter’s new series, The Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles. This is set in a new world and I am excited to see what stories Peter writes.
Taryn was an interesting character. I was kind of conflicted reading about her but I grew to like her by the end of the story. She wanted to protect her people but she also wanted to follow her heart. Taryn has to work through whether she would sacrifice her love for the good of her people. There were times where Taryn seemed selfish but I liked seeing her grow and learn to consider others. Taryn had a lot to work through, but she was willing to fight for what she believed in and learn from her mistakes.
I loved Xander from the beginning. He was charming and kind. I enjoyed reading about him. He loved Taryn and wanted to keep her safe. It was sweet to read about him trying to protect her. But when Xander’s heart is frozen, he will have to fight about the darkness that surrounds him to protect Taryn. Xander had to struggle to find the light and fight against his father’s evil plans.
Xander and Taryn were a cute couple! I really liked how we got to read of them falling in love. Their romance did not feel rushed. I also liked the easy way they communicated with each other, they really had a connection. I also love how Peters introduced other characters and I am excited to read their stories.
Forgotten was a fun book and I would definitely recommend it! I really like the twits that Peters wrote on East of the Sun, West of the Moon, and The Snow Queen. Forgotten is a clean fairy tale retelling.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
September 5, 2023
Billed as a combination of "The Snow Queen" and "East of the Sun, West of the Moon;" while this story takes inspiration from both of those, mostly in the middle of the story, it's largely its own unique thing. It centers around the forbidden love of Taryn and Xander, heirs to the crowns of kingdoms that have been feuding for centuries. While Taryn and Xander are compelling characters, I felt the story overall dragged and was too long and a tad repetitive.
Taryn and Xander meet at a royal function hosted by a neutral kingdom and are instantly smitten despite knowing they're supposed to be enemies. They spend the next few years covertly exchanging letters (how? after the first two, not really sure) and meeting discreetly whenever they can contrive to. They fall in love and decide that the only way they can be together is finding a magical item that might be able to bring peace between their kingdoms. But they roll a natural one on their investigation check (if this were a game of Dungeons & Dragons) and to get out alive they are forced to sacrifice their love, including all memories of being together. Xander takes on the greater burden of the curse and loses the ability to love at all. The plot as described by the blurb of the book really begins here, with Taryn and Xander meeting again and puzzling over the fact that they seem to know each other. So the first part of the book is set up to feel a little redundant, even though it's important to see how Taryn and Xander first came to have feelings for each other, and how strong those feelings became to the point where they'd act against the interests of their own kingdoms and families for the chance to be together. I feel like being a fairy tale retelling actually works against the story here because Peters is forced to give away what might otherwise have been a big, heartbreaking plot twist before the story even starts in the interest of letting us know which fairy tale we're in (the ones where the male lead is forced to magically forget the female lead).
You can definitely tell that Peters is setting up for more stories in this universe since there are several side characters who seem to be main character or antagonist fodder. Which fairy tales they're going to be is not as obvious. (As a sidenote, I'd actually love a bit more information on why Xander and his little sister turned out to be such great human beings, given that the sole person seemingly responsible for raising them is their monster of a father and middle child Ryker does seem to be turning out bad. And also I'm sad that one of Astrid and Gladen's now-grown children from The Beast and the Enchantress is going the evil route as well. Alden seems great, though, and a good friend/fairy godfather to have in a pinch.)
Taryn and Xander meet at a royal function hosted by a neutral kingdom and are instantly smitten despite knowing they're supposed to be enemies. They spend the next few years covertly exchanging letters (how? after the first two, not really sure) and meeting discreetly whenever they can contrive to. They fall in love and decide that the only way they can be together is finding a magical item that might be able to bring peace between their kingdoms. But they roll a natural one on their investigation check (if this were a game of Dungeons & Dragons) and to get out alive they are forced to sacrifice their love, including all memories of being together. Xander takes on the greater burden of the curse and loses the ability to love at all. The plot as described by the blurb of the book really begins here, with Taryn and Xander meeting again and puzzling over the fact that they seem to know each other. So the first part of the book is set up to feel a little redundant, even though it's important to see how Taryn and Xander first came to have feelings for each other, and how strong those feelings became to the point where they'd act against the interests of their own kingdoms and families for the chance to be together. I feel like being a fairy tale retelling actually works against the story here because Peters is forced to give away what might otherwise have been a big, heartbreaking plot twist before the story even starts in the interest of letting us know which fairy tale we're in (the ones where the male lead is forced to magically forget the female lead).
You can definitely tell that Peters is setting up for more stories in this universe since there are several side characters who seem to be main character or antagonist fodder. Which fairy tales they're going to be is not as obvious. (As a sidenote, I'd actually love a bit more information on why Xander and his little sister turned out to be such great human beings, given that the sole person seemingly responsible for raising them is their monster of a father and middle child Ryker does seem to be turning out bad. And also I'm sad that one of Astrid and Gladen's now-grown children from The Beast and the Enchantress is going the evil route as well. Alden seems great, though, and a good friend/fairy godfather to have in a pinch.)
April 29, 2022
I loved this story! This is much more than a princess romance or a fairytale retelling, both of which I enjoy. There was a lot of tension, plenty of secrets, a heart-breaking betrayal (but not what I expected) and more than a little magic to keep me guessing.
I'd read the book description, so I shouldn't have been surprised at the way the story unfolded. But delightfully I was. The title was perfect. Not only did the characters have to fight to regain their memories of how important they were to each other, but I forgot my expectations for a happy-ever-after at the end of the book. Right up until the final pages, I was kept in suspense as to how Camille Peters was going to work her magic and make that HEA happen.
I stopped trying to guess what challenges would come next for the unhappy couple who seemed predestined (and indeed the book description foretold, but I shoved that to the back of my mind) to face one heartbreak after another. This is a story full of surprises, which start at the very first meeting between Crown Princess Taryn and Crown Prince Xander. She's captivated by his charm, and he's enchanted by her quick wit and beauty before either of them discovers that the other one is their traditional enemy!
I also love that this is part of a series, as I'd love to know what happens to some of the other minor characters. I highly recommend this author to anyone who enjoys a more than a little trouble on the road to that fairytale happy-ever-after romantic ending.
I'd read the book description, so I shouldn't have been surprised at the way the story unfolded. But delightfully I was. The title was perfect. Not only did the characters have to fight to regain their memories of how important they were to each other, but I forgot my expectations for a happy-ever-after at the end of the book. Right up until the final pages, I was kept in suspense as to how Camille Peters was going to work her magic and make that HEA happen.
I stopped trying to guess what challenges would come next for the unhappy couple who seemed predestined (and indeed the book description foretold, but I shoved that to the back of my mind) to face one heartbreak after another. This is a story full of surprises, which start at the very first meeting between Crown Princess Taryn and Crown Prince Xander. She's captivated by his charm, and he's enchanted by her quick wit and beauty before either of them discovers that the other one is their traditional enemy!
I also love that this is part of a series, as I'd love to know what happens to some of the other minor characters. I highly recommend this author to anyone who enjoys a more than a little trouble on the road to that fairytale happy-ever-after romantic ending.
October 31, 2023
Camille Peters, known for her exceptional talent in crafting enchanting worlds and exploring the inner turmoil of her characters, has taken us on yet another remarkable journey with "Forgotten," the first book in The Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles series.
This novel is a delightful fusion of "East of the Sun, West of the Moon" and “The Snow Queen” with a touch of “Romeo and Juliet." The blending of these classic tales into a unique and forbidden romance is nothing short of genius. The forbidden love aspect adds a layer of tension and intrigue that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages with plenty of unexpected turns throughout the book!
“Forgotten” leaves readers on the edge of their seats, wondering how these characters would ever achieve their long-awaited happy ending.
Their journey to happiness is a heartwarming rollercoaster, filled with moments of tenderness and humor that make it all the more endearing. Taryn and Xander share a beautifully portrayed connection, and their romance, though forbidden, is navigated with grace and wit. The obstacles that stand in their way seem insurmountable, making it impossible to set the book aside until their fate is revealed.
The plot is not only deeply engaging but also superbly paced. The subtle allusions to the original fairy tales, creatively woven into the narrative, add a layer of depth and charm to an already wondrous story.
"Forgotten" has quickly become a new favorite by Camille Peters. It's a promising start to The Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles, set in a captivating new world and I can’t wait for the next instalment!
This novel is a delightful fusion of "East of the Sun, West of the Moon" and “The Snow Queen” with a touch of “Romeo and Juliet." The blending of these classic tales into a unique and forbidden romance is nothing short of genius. The forbidden love aspect adds a layer of tension and intrigue that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages with plenty of unexpected turns throughout the book!
“Forgotten” leaves readers on the edge of their seats, wondering how these characters would ever achieve their long-awaited happy ending.
Their journey to happiness is a heartwarming rollercoaster, filled with moments of tenderness and humor that make it all the more endearing. Taryn and Xander share a beautifully portrayed connection, and their romance, though forbidden, is navigated with grace and wit. The obstacles that stand in their way seem insurmountable, making it impossible to set the book aside until their fate is revealed.
The plot is not only deeply engaging but also superbly paced. The subtle allusions to the original fairy tales, creatively woven into the narrative, add a layer of depth and charm to an already wondrous story.
"Forgotten" has quickly become a new favorite by Camille Peters. It's a promising start to The Enchanted Kingdom Chronicles, set in a captivating new world and I can’t wait for the next instalment!
April 1, 2022
This novel hooked me from the very first scene! Taryn and Xander are fascinating and multidimensional individuals, and I was cheering them on from the beginning. The allusions to both "East of the Sun, West of the Moon" and "The Snow Queen" are gorgeous—though this story is completely unique and its own original novel, the symbolism and nods are perfectly placed and so rewarding when a reader spots them! Speaking of gorgeous, the details and scenery in this book are completely immersive. This is one of Ms. Peters' writing strengths: I've found that all her stories are beautifully scenic and magical, and this novel was no exception! It's like being transported into a wintery wonderland with sweeping castles and ancient, sentinel trees! This story is far more action-packed than Ms. Peters' usual lovely stories, and this meant it was practically impossible to put the book down! The relationships are well-developed, and I thoroughly enjoyed watching our heroes overcome each trial and obstacle thrown at them. (I must say, Xander has made his way into my list of alltime favorite fairytale princes!) The book is also well-paced and a complete story: it feels very balanced, and no part felt rushed or too slow. What a powerful journey! This was an incredibly captivating and welcome start to a new series, and I'm ultra excited to read the books that will follow!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews