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Twisted Pages #4
Of Thieves and Shadows
A marriage that could save them both. A truth that might destroy them.
And a choice that will break her heart.
All Aika ever wanted was a family -- until hers was standing on opposite ends of a war. Trapped between her loyalty to a monster and her love for a man who despises her, she must decide who she’s willing to lose.
And who she’s willing to betray.
Don’t miss this dark Cinderella retelling, where the stroke of midnight could mean the end of everything.
* The Twisted Pages Series wraps up Aika's story in book four, but don't worry, Zaina and Einar have their scenes as well! This series does need to be read in order, beginning with Of Thorns and Beauty.
** Content Warning **
Please be aware that this series is intended for adult readers. Although there is no explicit language, violence, or sexual content, we do tackle dark themes, including history of child abuse and childhood sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, and torture. While we make every effort to handle these situations in a delicate and non-graphic manner, our priority is and will always be the mental health of our readers. So please mind your triggers and proceed with any necessary caution.
And a choice that will break her heart.
All Aika ever wanted was a family -- until hers was standing on opposite ends of a war. Trapped between her loyalty to a monster and her love for a man who despises her, she must decide who she’s willing to lose.
And who she’s willing to betray.
Don’t miss this dark Cinderella retelling, where the stroke of midnight could mean the end of everything.
* The Twisted Pages Series wraps up Aika's story in book four, but don't worry, Zaina and Einar have their scenes as well! This series does need to be read in order, beginning with Of Thorns and Beauty.
** Content Warning **
Please be aware that this series is intended for adult readers. Although there is no explicit language, violence, or sexual content, we do tackle dark themes, including history of child abuse and childhood sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, and torture. While we make every effort to handle these situations in a delicate and non-graphic manner, our priority is and will always be the mental health of our readers. So please mind your triggers and proceed with any necessary caution.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2022
131 people are currently reading
1692 people want to read
About the author
Elle Madison
33 books668 followersElle Madison is a faerie disguising herself as an author in the human world.
When she isn't wrestling her children, she's busy baking cookies for her husband and becoming a regular at every taco shop she comes across.
After hours, when she puts the kiddos to bed, you can usually find Elle working on creating new fantastical worlds, reading about them or playing Stardew Valley like the child she is.
Elle enjoys watching the sunset, trying new wines, the occasional raccoon or two, and being with people who make her laugh.
When she isn't wrestling her children, she's busy baking cookies for her husband and becoming a regular at every taco shop she comes across.
After hours, when she puts the kiddos to bed, you can usually find Elle working on creating new fantastical worlds, reading about them or playing Stardew Valley like the child she is.
Elle enjoys watching the sunset, trying new wines, the occasional raccoon or two, and being with people who make her laugh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
December 13, 2025
Aika is at a crossroads. On one side is the woman she calls "mother", and on the other side is the man she loves. Will she choose loyalty or love?
This is the fourth book in the series (they have to be read in order). The first two focuses on Zaina and are a retelling of The Beauty and the Beast. Books 3 and 4 have Aika at center and are a retelling of Cinderella. But even if we get most of the story through Aika's and Remy's POV, we also get Zaina's and Einar's perspective (yay!).
It's a rather dark and twisted series that tackle some heavy subjects, so you might want to read the trigger warnings if you're sensitive to certain things. There are high stakes and a lot of tension, but the authors still manages to lighten the mood once in a while. They're also good at describing Aika's ambivalent feelings towards Madame, even though I often got frustrated when she doesn't see Madame the way I do, as an outsider. And I don't even want to mention Damian, their brother... Now I'm looking forward to getting to know Mel, the third sister!
This is the fourth book in the series (they have to be read in order). The first two focuses on Zaina and are a retelling of The Beauty and the Beast. Books 3 and 4 have Aika at center and are a retelling of Cinderella. But even if we get most of the story through Aika's and Remy's POV, we also get Zaina's and Einar's perspective (yay!).
It's a rather dark and twisted series that tackle some heavy subjects, so you might want to read the trigger warnings if you're sensitive to certain things. There are high stakes and a lot of tension, but the authors still manages to lighten the mood once in a while. They're also good at describing Aika's ambivalent feelings towards Madame, even though I often got frustrated when she doesn't see Madame the way I do, as an outsider. And I don't even want to mention Damian, their brother... Now I'm looking forward to getting to know Mel, the third sister!
September 26, 2022
Between the high stakes our characters face, the danger that it is Madame, and the irresistible, magnetic and difficult romance this proves to be a very compelling and riveting sequel for Aika's story. However, half way through it it felt like the were using the same plot device over and over again and was quite repetitive. I was a bit disappointed.
On another note, I'm embarrassed to admit it took me a a few chapters to understand monkey's name which is "pumpkin" as a reference to the pumpkin carriage. 🌚
Aika going to brun the slavers or kill someone. Me:
I love my consistency of hating and wanting to kill the evil, wicked (step)mother in EVERY retelling.
Me to Damiane and Madame:
Remy sitting causally whilst everyone else is arguing\fighting:
On another note, I'm embarrassed to admit it took me a a few chapters to understand monkey's name which is "pumpkin" as a reference to the pumpkin carriage. 🌚
Aika going to brun the slavers or kill someone. Me:
I love my consistency of hating and wanting to kill the evil, wicked (step)mother in EVERY retelling.
Me to Damiane and Madame:
Remy sitting causally whilst everyone else is arguing\fighting:
September 25, 2022
No punches are pulled during part 2 of this darkly enchanting Cinderella retelling. The action and the romance are equally fierce and fulfilling, while still leaving you wanting more.
I can't wait to read the final duology of this series.
P.S. I have read this as both Beta and ARC copies and holy heck the polishing that occurred! This was a great story to begin with, but now it shines like polished obsidian.
I can't wait to read the final duology of this series.
P.S. I have read this as both Beta and ARC copies and holy heck the polishing that occurred! This was a great story to begin with, but now it shines like polished obsidian.
September 20, 2022
Once again, Robin and Elle have delivered a totally binge worthy book! I absolutely love the characters in this book! Zaina and Aika are such fierce characters and I love how we get to see Aika grow throughout this book. And of course, I have to mention their male counterparts- Einar and Remy are just *chefs kiss*. Plus, exciting news for those of you that love Remy like I do- we get chapters from his POV in this book!
The romance in OTAS has just the right amount of angst and tension and I really enjoyed watching it develop.
Also, can we talk about the villains in this series? Cause damn, they are some evil, evil characters. The same two we love to hate, are back and more vicious than ever in this installment.
If you love twisted fairytale retellings, awesome characters, and fast paced reads- this series is for you!
The romance in OTAS has just the right amount of angst and tension and I really enjoyed watching it develop.
Also, can we talk about the villains in this series? Cause damn, they are some evil, evil characters. The same two we love to hate, are back and more vicious than ever in this installment.
If you love twisted fairytale retellings, awesome characters, and fast paced reads- this series is for you!
April 29, 2024
Me, every time Damian is in a scene:
*Chanting* Kill him! Kill him! Kill him!
*Chanting* Kill him! Kill him! Kill him!
March 26, 2023
Gripping and one heckuva thrill ride! The ante is higher as these characters strive to stay one step ahead of the evil mastermind. Things seem to be fitting together until everything falls apart.
If you need entertainment that's a bit dark and absolutely addictive, you must dive into this unputdownable series! Watching these women slowly unfurl is beyond breathtakingly beautiful as the what could-bes mount. And did I mention how brutally delicious the guys are!? There's nothing more alluring that a well aimed glare and a ferocious touch her and you die mentality.
Elbin knows how to execute the spice and the angsty action. Everything they write is stunningly fabulous even when you have the urge to throw the book and do an odd little shrieky dance.
If you need entertainment that's a bit dark and absolutely addictive, you must dive into this unputdownable series! Watching these women slowly unfurl is beyond breathtakingly beautiful as the what could-bes mount. And did I mention how brutally delicious the guys are!? There's nothing more alluring that a well aimed glare and a ferocious touch her and you die mentality.
Elbin knows how to execute the spice and the angsty action. Everything they write is stunningly fabulous even when you have the urge to throw the book and do an odd little shrieky dance.
August 31, 2024
The majority of the book felt much too similar to the first two. Aika/Remy and Zaina/Einar have very similar personalities and stories. It just feels like it's taking too long to get to the point by repeating the story over again but slightly different.
I do like that we actually see a little more of Madame/Damian, and finally get to see first hand how dislikable they are. I also genuinely liked Katriane. She felt as though she could have been a strong character. It was satisfying seeing Aika get the family she clearly desperately wanted. And I did enjoy the conclusion.
I do like that we actually see a little more of Madame/Damian, and finally get to see first hand how dislikable they are. I also genuinely liked Katriane. She felt as though she could have been a strong character. It was satisfying seeing Aika get the family she clearly desperately wanted. And I did enjoy the conclusion.
October 19, 2022
*I received a free advanced copy of this book for my honest review.*
Oh, ElBin… You’ve done it again.
I feel like my reviews are getting a bit repetitive for these books, but they are genuinely just that good. Every one has been phenomenal, and somehow they keep getting better. I don’t know how, but it’s true.
This is the fourth book in the Twisted Pages series, and oof. It’s part two of the Cinderella portion of the series, which is my favorite story to read retellings of, so I already knew I’d love it, but oh man. I don’t know how to properly explain how much I adored this book.
It’s dark and twisted (please read the content warnings if there are potential triggers for you). It’s intense, but there are also light, amusing parts mixed in at times. All of the characters at this point have lived through traumatic events, and sometimes their sardonic humor is the only way they can get through things.
Without giving too much away, Remy and Aika have to pretend to be a couple. So, they are constantly overdoing it with pet names, and it’s just perfect. They’re reluctantly in this situation, but they’re also both willing to go to great means to protect one another. Even if they both deny their feelings.
Seeing them grow together, and seeing how things develop from the past to the present was really moving. There is one scene that leads into a flashback that both made me swoon and broke my heart. It literally made me gasp, and just thinking about it is actually making me teary now. It’s a part I’ll go back to reread often because the delivery was just on point.
That wasn’t the only time this book made me gasp either. It was incredibly difficult to put down because there was so much at stake. I had to keep going. And I may or may not have messaged the authors at like midnight as I was reading the end… and freaking out.
There are a lot of questions unanswered, making me eager for the next book. I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t sure how I’d like the series switching POVs every two books–the first two are Zaina (Beauty and the Beast), the next two are Aika (Cinderella), and the last two are Mel (The Little Mermaid)–but it’s such a cohesive story. Even though books three and four are focused on Aika and Remy, we still got plenty of Zaina and Einar POV chapters to flesh it all out. It’s done really well, and I have no doubts the final two books will blow me away.
And I’m not just saying that because I’m obsessed with The Little Mermaid… *she says as she curls up in her Little Mermaid throw blanket, with an Ariel painting on the shelf behind her and a Little Mermaid cup on the top of her desk next to her.*
**Originally posted on Functionally Fictional.
Oh, ElBin… You’ve done it again.
I feel like my reviews are getting a bit repetitive for these books, but they are genuinely just that good. Every one has been phenomenal, and somehow they keep getting better. I don’t know how, but it’s true.
This is the fourth book in the Twisted Pages series, and oof. It’s part two of the Cinderella portion of the series, which is my favorite story to read retellings of, so I already knew I’d love it, but oh man. I don’t know how to properly explain how much I adored this book.
It’s dark and twisted (please read the content warnings if there are potential triggers for you). It’s intense, but there are also light, amusing parts mixed in at times. All of the characters at this point have lived through traumatic events, and sometimes their sardonic humor is the only way they can get through things.
Without giving too much away, Remy and Aika have to pretend to be a couple. So, they are constantly overdoing it with pet names, and it’s just perfect. They’re reluctantly in this situation, but they’re also both willing to go to great means to protect one another. Even if they both deny their feelings.
Seeing them grow together, and seeing how things develop from the past to the present was really moving. There is one scene that leads into a flashback that both made me swoon and broke my heart. It literally made me gasp, and just thinking about it is actually making me teary now. It’s a part I’ll go back to reread often because the delivery was just on point.
That wasn’t the only time this book made me gasp either. It was incredibly difficult to put down because there was so much at stake. I had to keep going. And I may or may not have messaged the authors at like midnight as I was reading the end… and freaking out.
There are a lot of questions unanswered, making me eager for the next book. I’m not going to lie, I wasn’t sure how I’d like the series switching POVs every two books–the first two are Zaina (Beauty and the Beast), the next two are Aika (Cinderella), and the last two are Mel (The Little Mermaid)–but it’s such a cohesive story. Even though books three and four are focused on Aika and Remy, we still got plenty of Zaina and Einar POV chapters to flesh it all out. It’s done really well, and I have no doubts the final two books will blow me away.
And I’m not just saying that because I’m obsessed with The Little Mermaid… *she says as she curls up in her Little Mermaid throw blanket, with an Ariel painting on the shelf behind her and a Little Mermaid cup on the top of her desk next to her.*
**Originally posted on Functionally Fictional.
September 27, 2022
A Gripping Conclusion to this Gritty, Dark Cinderella Retelling
Picking up at the cliff-hanging end of book 3, we journey with Aika and Remy to see just how far they will go for their kingdom, for their family, and for each other. Authors Mahle and Madison continue to write realistic, emotional, imperfect characters; with varied motives who do not always make the right decision. The plot continues at the faster pace set during Of Glass and Ashes, the previous book.
Saying that, I did take one star away because I felt like this story was a little less character-driven and more plot-advancing then the previous books. I know this is not a bad thing, and to be clear, Aika and Remy still grow. And that growth and change makes sense. The characters are not neglected. It just felt a little different to me. Overall, this was an engrossing read with some heart-stopping events I did not see coming. I could not put it down.
🥿Length: Novel
⭐Genre: High Fantasy, Fairytale Retelling
🥿POV: First person, alternating between four characters (Aika, Remy, Zaina, and Einar)
⭐Age: Adult
🥿Warnings: Violence and dark themes including death and multiple forms of abuse (see the blurb’s “Content Warning”)
⭐Spice: Romantic tension and pining, kissing, and fade to black loving
🥿Violence: Vigilante justice, drug and human trafficking, abuse, character death, and scenes related to torture
⭐Editing: Seamless transitions between authors, and I personally did not notice any errors
🥿World: Fantasy world of multiple kingdoms; this book is based in the Kingdom of Corentin
⭐Series: Twisted Pages – this is book 4, book 3 (Of Glass and Ashes) is a must read as it is the first part of Aika and Remy’s story; books 1 & 2 do not need to be read as they focus on a different couple, but you will want to read them to best understand the overall story
🥿Tropes: Fake relationship, hidden identities, morally grey hero/heroine, cute animal sidekick
⭐Ending: It is not a cliffhanger, as Aika’s story has resolution, but the overarching story is not finished and there are still villains on the loose
🥿Recommend? Yes! Go read it!
Picking up at the cliff-hanging end of book 3, we journey with Aika and Remy to see just how far they will go for their kingdom, for their family, and for each other. Authors Mahle and Madison continue to write realistic, emotional, imperfect characters; with varied motives who do not always make the right decision. The plot continues at the faster pace set during Of Glass and Ashes, the previous book.
Saying that, I did take one star away because I felt like this story was a little less character-driven and more plot-advancing then the previous books. I know this is not a bad thing, and to be clear, Aika and Remy still grow. And that growth and change makes sense. The characters are not neglected. It just felt a little different to me. Overall, this was an engrossing read with some heart-stopping events I did not see coming. I could not put it down.
🥿Length: Novel
⭐Genre: High Fantasy, Fairytale Retelling
🥿POV: First person, alternating between four characters (Aika, Remy, Zaina, and Einar)
⭐Age: Adult
🥿Warnings: Violence and dark themes including death and multiple forms of abuse (see the blurb’s “Content Warning”)
⭐Spice: Romantic tension and pining, kissing, and fade to black loving
🥿Violence: Vigilante justice, drug and human trafficking, abuse, character death, and scenes related to torture
⭐Editing: Seamless transitions between authors, and I personally did not notice any errors
🥿World: Fantasy world of multiple kingdoms; this book is based in the Kingdom of Corentin
⭐Series: Twisted Pages – this is book 4, book 3 (Of Glass and Ashes) is a must read as it is the first part of Aika and Remy’s story; books 1 & 2 do not need to be read as they focus on a different couple, but you will want to read them to best understand the overall story
🥿Tropes: Fake relationship, hidden identities, morally grey hero/heroine, cute animal sidekick
⭐Ending: It is not a cliffhanger, as Aika’s story has resolution, but the overarching story is not finished and there are still villains on the loose
🥿Recommend? Yes! Go read it!
September 25, 2022
“In the end, we both wanted people who never even existed.”
Binging is one habit I can’t seem to kick. Of Thieves and Shadows is the fourth book in the Twisted Pages series. There are three sisters, and each duet is one, a different couple and fairytale retelling. The first tales in order are Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid. Before going into Of Thieves and Shadows, I read the previous three books beforehand. After reading the Lochlann Feuds series, I don’t mind going into Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle’s works blind.
I’m not too fond of the more classic Cinderellas, yet I enjoy the remakes/retellings/reimaginings.
I prefer books with multiple POVs because I can look into their head and get to know the characters better. I believe that if it were only Aika’s point of view, I wouldn’t have enjoyed my experience as much as I did. Even though each duet’s main focus was on a specific couple, their story is not entirely over because they were included in the others. Their stories are intertwined, and somehow each retelling work with the other.
Loyalty is challenging to navigate when you have to choose. It can alter relationships. No matter what happens, something will change.
They say everyone has choices. In a sense, that is true. Yet, it’s not always easy. There are times when the circumstances make it difficult.
Aika’s life is no walk in the park. Her circumstances made her into who she is. While there are moments when I wouldn’t say I liked the choices she made, I do understand them. In most cases, people may say she hasn’t always made the right choices, but you can only work with what you have. I didn’t think I would like Aika, yet she grew on me. Hopefully, there is more of everyone else in the last two books, and they all get their happily ever afters.
I can’t wait for Of Songs and Silence in May 2023.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.25)
September 30, 2022
Series.... I just hate them. I do get sucked into them occasionally like this one. They start to sound repetitive and I HATE cliff hanger endings. This did sound like the first two books. The Voice of the book and the characters start to sound like the characters from the first. The love story themes were too similar. When I read one book a year from an author you forget. There was so much violence in this one. So much torture. It just didn't have a good feel. If it had ended any other way I would have chucked this whole series and given this 1 star. Fortunately it ends well and I will read the last book when it comes out. It just got super interesting again. We will get Mal's story in the next one along with these two kingdoms trying to bring this mad woman down.
There is a lot of making out and fade to black sex scenes in this one. I would say 16 and up. Death and drinking and torture. Lots of drinking but no swearing.
There is a lot of making out and fade to black sex scenes in this one. I would say 16 and up. Death and drinking and torture. Lots of drinking but no swearing.
January 2, 2025
Part 2 of this Cinderella retelling was difficult to get through at times. I despise Madame and wish her nothing but a bloody demise and the fiery pits of hell in the afterlife. And for some GD reason, Madame seems to be one step ahead of our band of dark Disney characters all the time. Grrrr. Anyway, Remy is coming around because: true love. Duh.
August 2, 2023
wow
Wow this book it was a ride had alot of surprises and twists and turns and the last couple chapters . Now I can dive into the next book
Wow this book it was a ride had alot of surprises and twists and turns and the last couple chapters . Now I can dive into the next book
September 17, 2022
I enjoyed Aika's second novel and the fourth in this series overall. However, the ending (for me at least) felt rushed and I wanted a bigger clash at the end with everything going wrong. The ending does leave me excited for Melodi's story though. The series is a creative twist on fairy tales that I deeply enjoy.
October 6, 2022
This book was the best yet in my opinion!!! Sooo good, the story, the characters, the twists!!!
January 1, 2023
I always think, Elle and Robin can’t write a better book than the last one I read, yet every time they seem to make me fall in love with their characters and worlds even more.
This book was no exception. This dark Cinderella retelling is to die for! I loved every character, every twist and turn, every romance, every heartbreak. There so much to love, and I think they will forever be one of my favourite authors!
This book was no exception. This dark Cinderella retelling is to die for! I loved every character, every twist and turn, every romance, every heartbreak. There so much to love, and I think they will forever be one of my favourite authors!
May 30, 2023
Thieves was EXPLOSIVE!! I am reeling from book 4 in this series, and probably will be until I can get my hands on the next book. Aika and Zaina are such phenomenal leading ladies- watching them come to terms with and grow from some of the darker aspects of their upbringing has been a heartwrenching rollercoaster. I cant wait to see whT comes next!!
September 30, 2022
I received an eARC of this book via the authors. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of this review.
Fantastic conclusion to this dark and twisted Cinderella retelling! Of Thieves and Shadows by the fabulous Elle Madison, Robin D. Mahle picks up right where we left off in book three with Aika and Remy. Here we get to see just how far they will go for the kingdom and to stop Aika’s “Mother.” Because this is the fourth book of the series, please note that there may be spoilers to previous books in this review. Read at your own risk 😉
Aika’s growth from the last book through this one is phenomenal and believable. Her struggles with her feelings for Madame are perfectly represented here. Mahle and Madison do a fantastic job representing abused children through Aika (and Zaina). Those feelings of love and loyalty, wanting to belong and just wanting to be wanted, broke my heart. I love how once Remy got over his own hurt from Aika’s lies that he sees and accepts all of her, every piece. That was an important part of Aika’s growth and courage in this book.
The plot doesn’t slow down at all. It moves at a fast clip from the very first words to the last. It didn’t lag or slack off at all. Once I started, I could not set it down! I finished in almost one sitting 😂 Aika and Rey’s banter is perfection, and their sham of a marriage is only a sham to them. They aren’t fooling anyone else on how they feel about each other. I also loved the few chapters from Zaina’s and Einar’s POV. It was nice to see things from their perspective as well as helped tie them into this story.
Overall, I loved Of Thieves and Shadows. Fantastic read from start to finish! Aika is my favorite sister so far. I cannot wait to continue this series with Melodi’s story. I have so many theories about where the authors are leading us, but in truth I’m happy with whatever they send our way.
Final Thought: Of Thieves and Shadows is a fast-paced, dark conclusion to this retelling that will leave you with a happy heart.
Fantastic conclusion to this dark and twisted Cinderella retelling! Of Thieves and Shadows by the fabulous Elle Madison, Robin D. Mahle picks up right where we left off in book three with Aika and Remy. Here we get to see just how far they will go for the kingdom and to stop Aika’s “Mother.” Because this is the fourth book of the series, please note that there may be spoilers to previous books in this review. Read at your own risk 😉
Aika’s growth from the last book through this one is phenomenal and believable. Her struggles with her feelings for Madame are perfectly represented here. Mahle and Madison do a fantastic job representing abused children through Aika (and Zaina). Those feelings of love and loyalty, wanting to belong and just wanting to be wanted, broke my heart. I love how once Remy got over his own hurt from Aika’s lies that he sees and accepts all of her, every piece. That was an important part of Aika’s growth and courage in this book.
The plot doesn’t slow down at all. It moves at a fast clip from the very first words to the last. It didn’t lag or slack off at all. Once I started, I could not set it down! I finished in almost one sitting 😂 Aika and Rey’s banter is perfection, and their sham of a marriage is only a sham to them. They aren’t fooling anyone else on how they feel about each other. I also loved the few chapters from Zaina’s and Einar’s POV. It was nice to see things from their perspective as well as helped tie them into this story.
Overall, I loved Of Thieves and Shadows. Fantastic read from start to finish! Aika is my favorite sister so far. I cannot wait to continue this series with Melodi’s story. I have so many theories about where the authors are leading us, but in truth I’m happy with whatever they send our way.
Final Thought: Of Thieves and Shadows is a fast-paced, dark conclusion to this retelling that will leave you with a happy heart.
September 20, 2022
This story takes off from where ‘Of Glass and Ashes’ so abruptly left off. (We were warned that it ended in a cliffhanger, so no complaints here!)
Aika’s marriage to Remy is, she’s certain, a sham. She’s convinced that he despises her and will abandon her soon and isn’t really sure why he chose her. She fights her growing feelings for Remy, and is tangled up inside over her loyalty to Madame, the only mother she’s ever known; and the knowledge that Madame is ambitious and evil. Aika fears for the lives of those she cares about, yet hesitates to go against Madame’s wishes.
Honestly, this story was very difficult to read in places. The torture scenes were nearly too much for me (we were also warned about this.) They can easily be paged past or quickly skimmed, if necessary, without losing the thread of the story. But I love these authors’ stories, and this one is so well-crafted that I didn’t let the torture scenes keep me from reading the book.
Aika and Remy’s story is by turns horrifying and hopeful, filled with tension and misunderstandings, yet with an undercurrent of hope and respect and the seeds of daring to dream of a life filled with love, family, and joy.
Much loved characters Einar and Zaina are also featured in this story, along with new additions from Remy’s family, supernatural creatures, and a rogue monkey who nearly steals the show!
All-in-all, the story, characters, dialog and scene descriptions are so well done that the torture and hints of abuse shouldn’t keep a person from reading this story. The editing is top notch, and the story and writing style are terrific. If you like fantasy with wonderful characters you want to root for, horrors to root against, and a compelling story, give this one a look. Better yet, start with the first book of this series, Of Thorns and Beauty, and read the books in order to get the back story and threads of this story. Bonus that it’s on Kindle Unlimited. I highly recommend the entire Twisted Pages series.
Aika’s marriage to Remy is, she’s certain, a sham. She’s convinced that he despises her and will abandon her soon and isn’t really sure why he chose her. She fights her growing feelings for Remy, and is tangled up inside over her loyalty to Madame, the only mother she’s ever known; and the knowledge that Madame is ambitious and evil. Aika fears for the lives of those she cares about, yet hesitates to go against Madame’s wishes.
Honestly, this story was very difficult to read in places. The torture scenes were nearly too much for me (we were also warned about this.) They can easily be paged past or quickly skimmed, if necessary, without losing the thread of the story. But I love these authors’ stories, and this one is so well-crafted that I didn’t let the torture scenes keep me from reading the book.
Aika and Remy’s story is by turns horrifying and hopeful, filled with tension and misunderstandings, yet with an undercurrent of hope and respect and the seeds of daring to dream of a life filled with love, family, and joy.
Much loved characters Einar and Zaina are also featured in this story, along with new additions from Remy’s family, supernatural creatures, and a rogue monkey who nearly steals the show!
All-in-all, the story, characters, dialog and scene descriptions are so well done that the torture and hints of abuse shouldn’t keep a person from reading this story. The editing is top notch, and the story and writing style are terrific. If you like fantasy with wonderful characters you want to root for, horrors to root against, and a compelling story, give this one a look. Better yet, start with the first book of this series, Of Thorns and Beauty, and read the books in order to get the back story and threads of this story. Bonus that it’s on Kindle Unlimited. I highly recommend the entire Twisted Pages series.
September 26, 2022
Freaking Fabulous
Picks up literally right where Of Glass and Ashes leaves off 👏🏻 This is the 4th book in the series so I can't say too much without spoilers. But IT HAS BEEN WORTH THE WAIT PEOPLE!! 4 POVs. Marriage of convenience. Intrigue. 😱 and 🥰 moments 😅😅 Thieving Monkey animal companion 🐒
Remy, Remy, Remy...love this man!! He's sweet, caring, charming but also a total bada** 🤤🥵
I'm so excited for the next one about Mel!
💕 RCRS: 4 (fade to black)
⚠️ TW from the authors: Please be aware that this series is intended for adult readers.
Although there is no explicit language, violence, or sexual content, we do tackle dark themes, including history of child abuse and childhood sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, and torture.
While we make every effort to handle these situations in a delicate and non-graphic manner, our priority is and will always be the mental health of our readers.
So please mind your triggers and proceed with any necessary caution. <3
🗨 Some Quotes:
He is performing for the crowd as much as Mother was. He’s doing it well, too, his features giving nothing of the truth away even without his mask to hide behind. At least, without his physical mask. He always wears a mask. Something we have in common.
You said he hates her,” Einar reminds me.
“He hates her the way you hated me,” I explain.
“Ah, so not at all then.”
“Liar.” I splash a tiny bit of water back at him.
“Well, not much, anyway,” he amends
Madame is always terrifying, but something about my pretend life with Remy seems to have left me more susceptible than usual to fear.
Maybe it’s because for all that our life together is not quite real, it’s the closest I’ve come to picturing a future worth living for instead of just the day-to-day survival of a street-rat-turned-assassin.
Picks up literally right where Of Glass and Ashes leaves off 👏🏻 This is the 4th book in the series so I can't say too much without spoilers. But IT HAS BEEN WORTH THE WAIT PEOPLE!! 4 POVs. Marriage of convenience. Intrigue. 😱 and 🥰 moments 😅😅 Thieving Monkey animal companion 🐒
Remy, Remy, Remy...love this man!! He's sweet, caring, charming but also a total bada** 🤤🥵
I'm so excited for the next one about Mel!
💕 RCRS: 4 (fade to black)
⚠️ TW from the authors: Please be aware that this series is intended for adult readers.
Although there is no explicit language, violence, or sexual content, we do tackle dark themes, including history of child abuse and childhood sexual assault, attempted sexual assault, and torture.
While we make every effort to handle these situations in a delicate and non-graphic manner, our priority is and will always be the mental health of our readers.
So please mind your triggers and proceed with any necessary caution. <3
🗨 Some Quotes:
He is performing for the crowd as much as Mother was. He’s doing it well, too, his features giving nothing of the truth away even without his mask to hide behind. At least, without his physical mask. He always wears a mask. Something we have in common.
You said he hates her,” Einar reminds me.
“He hates her the way you hated me,” I explain.
“Ah, so not at all then.”
“Liar.” I splash a tiny bit of water back at him.
“Well, not much, anyway,” he amends
Madame is always terrifying, but something about my pretend life with Remy seems to have left me more susceptible than usual to fear.
Maybe it’s because for all that our life together is not quite real, it’s the closest I’ve come to picturing a future worth living for instead of just the day-to-day survival of a street-rat-turned-assassin.
September 24, 2022
In order to be saved from execution, Remy, also Prince Francis, chooses Aika to be his wife. Convinced her marriage is a scam she fights her growing feelings for the faux guard she had grown to care for while trying to sort her mixed feelings about Madame, the only mother she has ever known, and assist or look past Zaina's goal of taking Madame down.
Remy wasn't meant to be the Crown Prince Francis, that was his brother's job. Until he was murdered. Unable to accept his brother's death he has searched for his murderer for years. When he finds that she was close at hand he has to wrap his mind around the secrets his wife has carried and the girl he first knew as Gemma, that he grew to care for as he pretended to be a guard.
In a fight to save their kingdom, his family, and Aika's sisters, they along with Zaina and Einar are in a battle against a foe that appears unbeatable and spies around every turn. Is there any way they can all make it out unscathed?
I love this series. It picks up right at the cliffhanger we left off from in the third book and immediately pulls you back into the world of lies and deceit that is Corentin. The alternating characters were smooth, the dialogue as quick and witty as we've come to expect. I loved the addition of Pumpkin, I hope Mel has a friend like Pumpkin and Khija. There's not a single thing that I don't love about this series. Other than, perhaps, having to wait for the next installment! I can't wait to learn more about the third sister Mel, though I've already got some ideas of where that storyline will go, and I look forward to seeing the three sisters interact with one another.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Remy wasn't meant to be the Crown Prince Francis, that was his brother's job. Until he was murdered. Unable to accept his brother's death he has searched for his murderer for years. When he finds that she was close at hand he has to wrap his mind around the secrets his wife has carried and the girl he first knew as Gemma, that he grew to care for as he pretended to be a guard.
In a fight to save their kingdom, his family, and Aika's sisters, they along with Zaina and Einar are in a battle against a foe that appears unbeatable and spies around every turn. Is there any way they can all make it out unscathed?
I love this series. It picks up right at the cliffhanger we left off from in the third book and immediately pulls you back into the world of lies and deceit that is Corentin. The alternating characters were smooth, the dialogue as quick and witty as we've come to expect. I loved the addition of Pumpkin, I hope Mel has a friend like Pumpkin and Khija. There's not a single thing that I don't love about this series. Other than, perhaps, having to wait for the next installment! I can't wait to learn more about the third sister Mel, though I've already got some ideas of where that storyline will go, and I look forward to seeing the three sisters interact with one another.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2023
A year ago I started reading Of Thieves and Shadows, and now I have finally finished it. Long overdue for sure.
It was just sort of disappointing to me, especially since I really did enjoy the other books in this series. There was a lot of repetitive events, the characters doing the same things for 80% of the book. It wasn’t until after that there was finally a height in the plot, and even then it was just kind of anticlimactic. I feel like the authors had their passion elsewhere and didn’t give these characters the story they deserved.
I did really appreciate though how the authors are able to give a level of consistency to the characters. Each one is unique- acting and thinking in a way that enhances their personality. The talent to be able to create characters that enable me to emphasize with them, is truly incredible. No matter how slow the plot was, the characters were always able to entice me, always able to drag me back even after months without even touching the book.
I know the authors can deliver better, I’ve seen it in so much of their writing. I only hope that they grow in the right direction, and that their devotion to creating such amazing stories continues to make itself apparent on the pages.
Thank you to the author for sending me an advance reader copy, Of Thieves and Shadows.
It was just sort of disappointing to me, especially since I really did enjoy the other books in this series. There was a lot of repetitive events, the characters doing the same things for 80% of the book. It wasn’t until after that there was finally a height in the plot, and even then it was just kind of anticlimactic. I feel like the authors had their passion elsewhere and didn’t give these characters the story they deserved.
I did really appreciate though how the authors are able to give a level of consistency to the characters. Each one is unique- acting and thinking in a way that enhances their personality. The talent to be able to create characters that enable me to emphasize with them, is truly incredible. No matter how slow the plot was, the characters were always able to entice me, always able to drag me back even after months without even touching the book.
I know the authors can deliver better, I’ve seen it in so much of their writing. I only hope that they grow in the right direction, and that their devotion to creating such amazing stories continues to make itself apparent on the pages.
Thank you to the author for sending me an advance reader copy, Of Thieves and Shadows.
September 28, 2022
The page-turner of a story picks up right where it was left at the end of the previous book (Of Glass and Ashes) with heart pounding intensity and characters with roiling emotions. Because it had been a long time in between the last book being released and this one, I struggled a tiny bit to remember where the story was left and no rehashing of what had taken place prior was provided. Because of this, I recommend reading the books close together while the storyline is freshest for you.
If you like stories with characters who wrestle with heavy themes and have to navigate impossible situations and who share crazy intense chemistry. Then you’ll enjoy this series as well as the others by these fantastic authors.
4 out of 5 stars. Fantastic and exciting storytelling, but there are just enough plot holes yet things like “elixirs” and super skills that conveniently fix the holes. This distracts me enough to pull me out of the world because I’m thinking “yeah right” too much.
***Content Warning*** This series contains sensual content between spouses, discussion of a character who is a repeat rapist, and many scenes of torture.
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
If you like stories with characters who wrestle with heavy themes and have to navigate impossible situations and who share crazy intense chemistry. Then you’ll enjoy this series as well as the others by these fantastic authors.
4 out of 5 stars. Fantastic and exciting storytelling, but there are just enough plot holes yet things like “elixirs” and super skills that conveniently fix the holes. This distracts me enough to pull me out of the world because I’m thinking “yeah right” too much.
***Content Warning*** This series contains sensual content between spouses, discussion of a character who is a repeat rapist, and many scenes of torture.
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
September 30, 2022
👠 Book Review - Of Thieves and Shadows 👠
🗡 Kick-ass FMC
💍 Fake marriage
💞 Enemies to lovers
🗺 Plotting a plenty
🐒 A cute orange monkey
OTAS is book four in the Twisted Pages series and follows Aika as she is forced in to a sham marriage with the Prince (who is also her previous lover Remy) to save herself from the gallows as the vigilante burning slavers alive. But she has another secret she's sure Remy will hate her for 🔥
Aika finds herself torn between her growing feelings for Remy, her fear for those she cares about and her loyalty to the evil and ambitious Madame as she wavers between joining her sister in eliminating the only mother she's ever known, and suffering Madame's wrath ☠
I enjoyed the growth of Aika and Remy's relationship but did find their "oh they must hate me" and lack of communication frustrating - understandable but frustrating. There was never a shortage of plotting, danger and heartbreaking choices in this twisted Cinderella inspired tale. I absolutely can not wait for the next book! ⚖
Note: This series does need to be read in order, beginning with Of Thorns and Beauty. 🌹
🗡 Kick-ass FMC
💍 Fake marriage
💞 Enemies to lovers
🗺 Plotting a plenty
🐒 A cute orange monkey
OTAS is book four in the Twisted Pages series and follows Aika as she is forced in to a sham marriage with the Prince (who is also her previous lover Remy) to save herself from the gallows as the vigilante burning slavers alive. But she has another secret she's sure Remy will hate her for 🔥
Aika finds herself torn between her growing feelings for Remy, her fear for those she cares about and her loyalty to the evil and ambitious Madame as she wavers between joining her sister in eliminating the only mother she's ever known, and suffering Madame's wrath ☠
I enjoyed the growth of Aika and Remy's relationship but did find their "oh they must hate me" and lack of communication frustrating - understandable but frustrating. There was never a shortage of plotting, danger and heartbreaking choices in this twisted Cinderella inspired tale. I absolutely can not wait for the next book! ⚖
Note: This series does need to be read in order, beginning with Of Thorns and Beauty. 🌹
June 25, 2024
Another excellent read and so twisty! Although I knew this one couldn't end the way I wanted to, because there's ANOTHER book, I was relieved it didn't go as badly as I'd feared by the time I reached the last third. This series is so addictive!
I can't remember when I last raced through a series with quite this need to find out what happens next. The villain is excellent, so totally despicable. And I absolutely adore the characters. Remy and Aika are an awesome couple and second only to Einar and Zaina. The fact this series has gone from individuals trying to do things on their own to total teamwork is AWESOME. I love a good squad to take on the bad guys and I adore that they're still struggling despite all the brilliance they combine.
The tension is brilliant and the stakes are insane. This particular book isn't a retelling of any fairytale. But it is very clearly a bridge from the Cinderella we had in the previous volume and the Little Mermaid that's obviously coming in the next. So excited to see how things muddle out, because I have no idea how they're going to defeat Madame. She's a slippery fish, that's for sure.
I can't remember when I last raced through a series with quite this need to find out what happens next. The villain is excellent, so totally despicable. And I absolutely adore the characters. Remy and Aika are an awesome couple and second only to Einar and Zaina. The fact this series has gone from individuals trying to do things on their own to total teamwork is AWESOME. I love a good squad to take on the bad guys and I adore that they're still struggling despite all the brilliance they combine.
The tension is brilliant and the stakes are insane. This particular book isn't a retelling of any fairytale. But it is very clearly a bridge from the Cinderella we had in the previous volume and the Little Mermaid that's obviously coming in the next. So excited to see how things muddle out, because I have no idea how they're going to defeat Madame. She's a slippery fish, that's for sure.
January 5, 2023
I loved the first three books and this one was no different! The ending was great and I am anxiously awaiting the next one! I always like secret identities and having two characters with secret identities is neat. Remy was kinda driving me nuts cause I feel like he was being intentionally obtuse about Madame and her horribleness. Like, yes, Aika was somewhat kinda loyal to her but after everything he had learned about her and how Zaina was still alive you would think he would start putting pieces together??? It’s like “oh Aika’s sister/cousin is faking her death and hiding from Madame. Definitely not a red flag regarding how Madame treats her ‘family.’” He was just being dumb but whatever. I loved the smaller bits put in to give the characters a bit of happiness amid everything that was going on. Pumpkin was a great addition and I’m glad that Aika was given someone that does not have the capacity to purposely betray or leave her. (If Pumpkin or Khijhana dies in the later books I will riot)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2025
3.5 stars - Spoilers ahead
I like Remy and Aika so much but guys, this was painful. I wanted it to be over and just kill HER. MADAME. But, of course NOT. Here I am, after that horrible ending, running to grab the other novel to know how this series ends.
I will not lie, but I have been excited for Melodi's story since the second book and now it's finally the time. I am just mad at the ending of this book, like, COME ON!! I want to scream, but I'll pretend I am Melodi (mute) and just move on with my life. This book went on and on and on again but I made it till the end and I am not happy.
I WANT TO MURDER DAMIAN SO BAD. LIKE, I WANT TO PUT MY HANDS AROUND HIS NECK AND SQUEEZE UNTIL THE LAST BREATH LEAVES HIS MOUTH AND BODY AND DROP DEAD.
TELL ME WHY
I like Remy and Aika so much but guys, this was painful. I wanted it to be over and just kill HER. MADAME. But, of course NOT. Here I am, after that horrible ending, running to grab the other novel to know how this series ends.
I will not lie, but I have been excited for Melodi's story since the second book and now it's finally the time. I am just mad at the ending of this book, like, COME ON!! I want to scream, but I'll pretend I am Melodi (mute) and just move on with my life. This book went on and on and on again but I made it till the end and I am not happy.
I WANT TO MURDER DAMIAN SO BAD. LIKE, I WANT TO PUT MY HANDS AROUND HIS NECK AND SQUEEZE UNTIL THE LAST BREATH LEAVES HIS MOUTH AND BODY AND DROP DEAD.
TELL ME WHY
September 14, 2022
So, they took what was amazing, and just continued to surprise and wow me! Really, this duo is an auto-read for me and I devour what they write!
Without giving spoilers, this story picks off right after that AMAZING final scene in Of Glass and Ashes...some of this book deals with daily life for Aika and her new situation, but her chapters really show us the turmoil she experiences for the changes around her. Her loyalties have always been steadfast and she's learning if she can be flexible in these to truly protect those she loves.
I LOVE having Remy's point-of-view added - especially in scenes with Einar and Zaina (and yes, we still get chapters from them, don't worry!).
Also, when you read this story, you'll know why I need to add a note that Pumpkin was such a necessary character and I loved him so much! He brought a side of Aika that really couldn't have happened any other way.
Highly recommended.
Without giving spoilers, this story picks off right after that AMAZING final scene in Of Glass and Ashes...some of this book deals with daily life for Aika and her new situation, but her chapters really show us the turmoil she experiences for the changes around her. Her loyalties have always been steadfast and she's learning if she can be flexible in these to truly protect those she loves.
I LOVE having Remy's point-of-view added - especially in scenes with Einar and Zaina (and yes, we still get chapters from them, don't worry!).
Also, when you read this story, you'll know why I need to add a note that Pumpkin was such a necessary character and I loved him so much! He brought a side of Aika that really couldn't have happened any other way.
Highly recommended.
September 20, 2022
Book 4 in the Twisted Pages series
This book does not disappoint, and it was definitely worth the wait! It is an intensely-written, action-packed, swoon-filled story filled story centered around betrayal, lies, devotion, family, protection, trust, and love. Survival and hope are two main themes which drive this book. The book is filled with so much emotion, turmoil, and choices.
Living behind masks. Secretive royal connections. Hidden desires. Time is a thief. Villain or Victim? All the pieces of a puzzle once out together make a beautiful picture.
“So many identities, yet not one of them fits her.”
“I might have been just another mark, but you were never just another girl at the bar.”
“Because there are people more important than my fear of her.”
“What would you be doing right now, if you had a choice?”
“Every piece of her belongs to me.”
“I would have chosen this. I would have chosen you, in whatever life I could have you.”
This book does not disappoint, and it was definitely worth the wait! It is an intensely-written, action-packed, swoon-filled story filled story centered around betrayal, lies, devotion, family, protection, trust, and love. Survival and hope are two main themes which drive this book. The book is filled with so much emotion, turmoil, and choices.
Living behind masks. Secretive royal connections. Hidden desires. Time is a thief. Villain or Victim? All the pieces of a puzzle once out together make a beautiful picture.
“So many identities, yet not one of them fits her.”
“I might have been just another mark, but you were never just another girl at the bar.”
“Because there are people more important than my fear of her.”
“What would you be doing right now, if you had a choice?”
“Every piece of her belongs to me.”
“I would have chosen this. I would have chosen you, in whatever life I could have you.”
March 28, 2023
Elle and Robin are by far my favorite author team. They always create the most amazing worlds that you cannot help but be drawn in to and this series is definitely one of them.
This is the fourth book in the series and continues following Aika and Remy through all of the dangers from Madame. It will definitely have your emotions on a huge roller coaster ride, so much so for me that I literally could not put it down or stop reading until I finished it because I had to know what happens next. Seeing Aika and Remy grow in this book, even through their stubbornness, was definitely my favorite part. But I also loved seeing the relationship between Aika and her sister Zaina and the bond between them, especially Zaina's selflessness and love for her family. And the sisters pets, especially Aika's new monkey, definitely stole the show in many places throughout the story.
I truly love these worlds that Elle & Robin have created for us and I really think that you will too.
This is the fourth book in the series and continues following Aika and Remy through all of the dangers from Madame. It will definitely have your emotions on a huge roller coaster ride, so much so for me that I literally could not put it down or stop reading until I finished it because I had to know what happens next. Seeing Aika and Remy grow in this book, even through their stubbornness, was definitely my favorite part. But I also loved seeing the relationship between Aika and her sister Zaina and the bond between them, especially Zaina's selflessness and love for her family. And the sisters pets, especially Aika's new monkey, definitely stole the show in many places throughout the story.
I truly love these worlds that Elle & Robin have created for us and I really think that you will too.
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