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The Grim Tower #1
Twisted
Forget what you’ve read. There is no Prince Charming in this fairy tale.
Rapunzel spent her life as a willing prisoner locked inside a tower. Protected by magic and guarded by a witch, she believed Happily Ever Afters are the stuff of fables.
Until Wren Kincaid found her and opened her eyes to a world of possibilities.
But he’s no Prince Charming.
And she's no ordinary girl.
The king is tearing apart Rygard to find her. But he’s too late. Wren already claimed her. Hidden away in a decaying castle, Rapunzel is in no rush to escape him and the savage renegades holding her captive.
*TWISTED is a reimagining of Rapunzel. Characters are appropriately aged up for this dark fantasy romance. This is a scorching Why Choose, friends-to-enemies/enemies-to-lovers with morally gray antiheroes. This book ends on an information cliffhanger.
Rapunzel spent her life as a willing prisoner locked inside a tower. Protected by magic and guarded by a witch, she believed Happily Ever Afters are the stuff of fables.
Until Wren Kincaid found her and opened her eyes to a world of possibilities.
But he’s no Prince Charming.
And she's no ordinary girl.
The king is tearing apart Rygard to find her. But he’s too late. Wren already claimed her. Hidden away in a decaying castle, Rapunzel is in no rush to escape him and the savage renegades holding her captive.
*TWISTED is a reimagining of Rapunzel. Characters are appropriately aged up for this dark fantasy romance. This is a scorching Why Choose, friends-to-enemies/enemies-to-lovers with morally gray antiheroes. This book ends on an information cliffhanger.
195 pages, Paperback
Published July 25, 2022
345 people are currently reading
4331 people want to read
About the author
Renee Rocco
16 books274 followersRenee has always loved villains more than heroes, and although ‘spooky season’ is her time to shine, she enjoys lazy summer days spent poolside listening to podcasts. When not dreaming up ways to torment the characters who inhabit her mind, she’s a working mom who lives near the infamous Jersey Shore.
Find Renee around the internet:
Website: www.reneerocco.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/reneeroccoauthor/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@reneeroccoauthor
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorreneerocco
Find Renee around the internet:
Website: www.reneerocco.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/reneeroccoauthor/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@reneeroccoauthor
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorreneerocco
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
fantasy-tbr
January 29, 2023Rapunzel retelling and its RH🙈
SOLD
SOLD
November 6, 2022
Who knew where I'd end up after this? I knew nothing.
I did not expect a RH Rapunzel retelling but I'm not necessarily mad about it. Was it great? No. Was I entertained? I was.
I did however miss Eugene Fitzherbert but it's fine
I did not expect a RH Rapunzel retelling but I'm not necessarily mad about it. Was it great? No. Was I entertained? I was.
I did however miss Eugene Fitzherbert but it's fine
August 2, 2022
3.5 stars
An imaginative retelling of Rapunzel with an erotic twist, this is a dark fairytale, enemies-to-lovers, reverse harem story with a boldly inquisitive heroine desperate to explore the world, and three hot but very different heroes who are all too eager to show her what she’s been missing.
We all know the story of Rapunzel locked in her tower, but this time she has a friend from the local village who visits her, and the two of them become best friends from afar (he on the ground, she in her tower) as Wren shares his life and tells her all about the outside world. But Wren goes away to become a soldier, eventually returning to rescue Rapunzel from her tower, but her would-be Prince Charming now actually hates her because of her refusal to use her magical healing powers. She is being hunted for those very powers by a power-hungry king who will stop at nothing to get his hands on her, though if he does, it will bring ruin to the kingdom. Just as well she has Wren and his two best friends – Dax the big-hearted jokester, and Quinn’s demon-possessed, tormented soul - ready and willing to protect her.
This was my first reverse harem book, and as a hard-core romantic I was curious whether I’d like it, but I dove in having read and loved Renee Rocco’s other books, wondering how this was all going to go down (and on a side note – that cover is just glorious!).
Wren grew up loving Rapunzel, but their dynamic is now a twisted mess of anger, grief and mad lust. The three boys are used to sharing women, so Wren happily offers up Rapunzel to his buddies, who eagerly accept. Rapunzel has lived a completely isolated life and is willing and eager to explore all that she has been missing out on, so she just goes along with it all. The consent is initially kinda dubious, but this is not real life so I just glossed over that, and Rapunzel proves that she’s not a pushover and is eager and excited to explore whatever the boys have to show her.
It’s a good mix of personalities, and there are some fun dynamics in this group. The boys genuinely care for each other, and have a fun, teasing relationship. I liked seeing them truly come to care for Rapunzel and she for them. There are some sweet and fun moments, and of course a big dose of sexy time, but I wouldn’t really say there’s romance yet. Wren is a dick for most of the book, and I didn’t really care for him at all, but there’s a bit of development there with potential for more. It’s Dax and Quinn who I really liked, and I loved all that they brought to the story.
It’s a short read, so things move quickly, and there’s a bit of action and excitement along the way. It ends on a minor cliffhanger, with danger closing in and more story to come, and I’m keen to see where it all goes from here.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
An imaginative retelling of Rapunzel with an erotic twist, this is a dark fairytale, enemies-to-lovers, reverse harem story with a boldly inquisitive heroine desperate to explore the world, and three hot but very different heroes who are all too eager to show her what she’s been missing.
We all know the story of Rapunzel locked in her tower, but this time she has a friend from the local village who visits her, and the two of them become best friends from afar (he on the ground, she in her tower) as Wren shares his life and tells her all about the outside world. But Wren goes away to become a soldier, eventually returning to rescue Rapunzel from her tower, but her would-be Prince Charming now actually hates her because of her refusal to use her magical healing powers. She is being hunted for those very powers by a power-hungry king who will stop at nothing to get his hands on her, though if he does, it will bring ruin to the kingdom. Just as well she has Wren and his two best friends – Dax the big-hearted jokester, and Quinn’s demon-possessed, tormented soul - ready and willing to protect her.
This was my first reverse harem book, and as a hard-core romantic I was curious whether I’d like it, but I dove in having read and loved Renee Rocco’s other books, wondering how this was all going to go down (and on a side note – that cover is just glorious!).
Wren grew up loving Rapunzel, but their dynamic is now a twisted mess of anger, grief and mad lust. The three boys are used to sharing women, so Wren happily offers up Rapunzel to his buddies, who eagerly accept. Rapunzel has lived a completely isolated life and is willing and eager to explore all that she has been missing out on, so she just goes along with it all. The consent is initially kinda dubious, but this is not real life so I just glossed over that, and Rapunzel proves that she’s not a pushover and is eager and excited to explore whatever the boys have to show her.
“Why don’t you care that Wren gave us leave to use you?”
Her lips, swollen from my kiss, lift in a mischievous grin … “I’ve spent a lifetime numb, believing I would die alone. Untouched and unloved. So, who said I’m not also using you?”
It’s a good mix of personalities, and there are some fun dynamics in this group. The boys genuinely care for each other, and have a fun, teasing relationship. I liked seeing them truly come to care for Rapunzel and she for them. There are some sweet and fun moments, and of course a big dose of sexy time, but I wouldn’t really say there’s romance yet. Wren is a dick for most of the book, and I didn’t really care for him at all, but there’s a bit of development there with potential for more. It’s Dax and Quinn who I really liked, and I loved all that they brought to the story.
“You're ours, and we’ll fight to our last breath to protect you.”
It’s a short read, so things move quickly, and there’s a bit of action and excitement along the way. It ends on a minor cliffhanger, with danger closing in and more story to come, and I’m keen to see where it all goes from here.
3.5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2022
This is a dark ‘why choose’ retelling of Rapunzel and I love it.
If you are looking for something with an intriguing plot, fast paced, dark and very spicy - look no further!!
This is the first book in a new series and I can’t wait to see what happens next with these characters
If you are looking for something with an intriguing plot, fast paced, dark and very spicy - look no further!!
This is the first book in a new series and I can’t wait to see what happens next with these characters
July 11, 2022
First off, thank you so much Renee Rocco for letting me have an ARC of your book, Twisted!
The book is a quick read and follows the journey of childhood friends/turned enemies, Wren and Rapunzel. Set in the land of Rygard, we encounter a charismatic king gone mad, a witch, a tower, and a band of renegade misfits. Wren and his friends, Dax and Quinn, are working together to save Rygard from the death that is sweeping through the land. Although not the most original plot line, Rocco keeps readers engaged through new relationships forming and character growth. The book ends on a cliff hanger, but leaves plenty of room for more world building and the potential to expand much more on character backstories. All in all, it reads sort of like a novella; setting the scene for a larger and more complex plot line.
This IS a RH dark romance novel with a *generous* amount of spice. Rocco does have a list of warnings for readers at the beginning of the book.
I definitely recommend this book to others, as it is an engaging and enjoyable read!
The book is a quick read and follows the journey of childhood friends/turned enemies, Wren and Rapunzel. Set in the land of Rygard, we encounter a charismatic king gone mad, a witch, a tower, and a band of renegade misfits. Wren and his friends, Dax and Quinn, are working together to save Rygard from the death that is sweeping through the land. Although not the most original plot line, Rocco keeps readers engaged through new relationships forming and character growth. The book ends on a cliff hanger, but leaves plenty of room for more world building and the potential to expand much more on character backstories. All in all, it reads sort of like a novella; setting the scene for a larger and more complex plot line.
This IS a RH dark romance novel with a *generous* amount of spice. Rocco does have a list of warnings for readers at the beginning of the book.
I definitely recommend this book to others, as it is an engaging and enjoyable read!
August 2, 2022
Amazing
Another awesome book by a fantastic writer. If you love fairytale retelling and RH then you will definitely love this book of Rapunzel and her 3 men. Highly recommended
Another awesome book by a fantastic writer. If you love fairytale retelling and RH then you will definitely love this book of Rapunzel and her 3 men. Highly recommended
December 2, 2022
3⭐️
dark why choose Rapunzel retelling. Was fun but very predictable and the writing style wasn't for me. The spicy scenes were fun but were lacking, I could have had more. I will read the next book because i am intrigued and Quinn has been added to the book boyfriend list.
dark why choose Rapunzel retelling. Was fun but very predictable and the writing style wasn't for me. The spicy scenes were fun but were lacking, I could have had more. I will read the next book because i am intrigued and Quinn has been added to the book boyfriend list.
November 12, 2025
4.5 ⭐
AHHHH REVIEW TO COME <333
AHHHH REVIEW TO COME <333
July 8, 2022
This was my first time ever reading an ARC and I was so excited.
And boy was it a good one, full of firsts because this was also my first RH. I might be a convert.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, but if a book makes me feel things it tends to get 5 stars and this book had me grinning madly and also worried at points.
The fact I was terrified for Quinn despite him only being present for half the book is stunning. It's a short book, especially compared to the tomes I've been reading lately but goodness I love every character already.
There is a plot, and it's woven in with the smut (aka spice, I'm an old school fanfic reader sue me, it's smut) so wonderfully. There is a build up to the smut, which I really appreciate and I loved the world building and the descriptions of the world and Wrens family live. I was heartbroken by what happened right along with him. I'm looking forward to the next one just to see where the plot goes!!
Does Wren do a smidge of a 180 degree flip that could perhaps be expanded on, maybe, but it's not a star loss.
For a short book, it was a brilliant read and I loved it. 😍 and I'm so happy I got to read it.
And boy was it a good one, full of firsts because this was also my first RH. I might be a convert.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again, but if a book makes me feel things it tends to get 5 stars and this book had me grinning madly and also worried at points.
The fact I was terrified for Quinn despite him only being present for half the book is stunning. It's a short book, especially compared to the tomes I've been reading lately but goodness I love every character already.
There is a plot, and it's woven in with the smut (aka spice, I'm an old school fanfic reader sue me, it's smut) so wonderfully. There is a build up to the smut, which I really appreciate and I loved the world building and the descriptions of the world and Wrens family live. I was heartbroken by what happened right along with him. I'm looking forward to the next one just to see where the plot goes!!
Does Wren do a smidge of a 180 degree flip that could perhaps be expanded on, maybe, but it's not a star loss.
For a short book, it was a brilliant read and I loved it. 😍 and I'm so happy I got to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2022
Absolutely loved this book from beginning to end so much that I'm going to have my friend read this when it comes out. I will also be buying the book as well. I can't wait for part 2 well done Renee it's a brilliant book.
January 9, 2024
This is a combined review for both Twisted and Twined. The Grim Tower duet proved to be a delightful surprise, drawing me into a Rapunzel retelling with a captivating twist. The narrative unfolded with a girl possessing magical hair confined in a tower by a witch, a chance encounter with a boy who befriends her, their friendship evolving into love over time, only to be shattered by betrayal. The aftermath leaves a broken young man fueled by a quest for revenge.
The story's pace held me captivated, and Rocco's word use and phrases in this fantasy quickly became a favorite. It immersed me in a world of villages governed by royalty, where knights and royal guards engaged in battles, enriched by fantasy elements such as potions, magic, and demons. I was never bored!
After tragedy strikes at the hands of the King, Wren returns to Rapunzel's tower, driven by a revenge plan to make her pay. Breaking her out, he holds her captive, accompanied by his entourage of misfits, Dax and Quinn. As the plot unfolds, it evolves into a spicy "why choose" tale, adding an extra layer of intensity and intrigue. 😮💨
The narrative held numerous twists, some anticipated, others catching me by surprise. This was certainly a darker fairytale retelling. I thought for a moment that the end resolution was going to be too easy, but alas Rocco proved her story telling skills and kept me on the edge of my seat. This introduction to Rocco's writing has left me eager to explore her other works.
4.5 stars for the duet.
The story's pace held me captivated, and Rocco's word use and phrases in this fantasy quickly became a favorite. It immersed me in a world of villages governed by royalty, where knights and royal guards engaged in battles, enriched by fantasy elements such as potions, magic, and demons. I was never bored!
After tragedy strikes at the hands of the King, Wren returns to Rapunzel's tower, driven by a revenge plan to make her pay. Breaking her out, he holds her captive, accompanied by his entourage of misfits, Dax and Quinn. As the plot unfolds, it evolves into a spicy "why choose" tale, adding an extra layer of intensity and intrigue. 😮💨
The narrative held numerous twists, some anticipated, others catching me by surprise. This was certainly a darker fairytale retelling. I thought for a moment that the end resolution was going to be too easy, but alas Rocco proved her story telling skills and kept me on the edge of my seat. This introduction to Rocco's writing has left me eager to explore her other works.
4.5 stars for the duet.
October 16, 2022
As soon as I seen this was why choose/Rapunzel retelling I just had to read. I really enjoyed this one, the spice was so good. I feel like for a retelling it was done really well. I loved that Rapunzel wasn’t all shy and reserved from being locked away and it gave her a reason to take what she wanted, quite literally 🤪 Of course Wren was my fave because I always love a leader. I cannot wait for the next book.
September 18, 2022
dnf at 50%
what the actual fuck is this monstrosity. if i could rate books zero stars, this one would be my first candidate. because it was so fucking awful
there is absolutely no depth to the characters. rapunzel was SO flat and had no personality at ALL. the same with wren. and now that we’re talking about wren, he’s so weird?? calling rapunzel a "dumb bitch" bc he thinks she killed his dad. his reasoning wasn’t even logical. it was so stupid. what was even dumber was how she just suddenly escaped. like haha i know where the key is let me just leave now when i could’ve done it way earlier. ITS SO AWFUL i’m so pissed. and let’s not even BEGIN to talk about the sexual assault in this book?? 😭😭😭 what the FUCK the way wren just came in and pushed her skirt up and there are so much more occurrences. quinn selling his soul to the devil wowow that’s so dark and cool and mysterious of him. what the hell man. be for real right now. hated this book, hated the ass plot, hated the characters, hated the awful writing. hated everything!!!! -19727 stars.
what the actual fuck is this monstrosity. if i could rate books zero stars, this one would be my first candidate. because it was so fucking awful
there is absolutely no depth to the characters. rapunzel was SO flat and had no personality at ALL. the same with wren. and now that we’re talking about wren, he’s so weird?? calling rapunzel a "dumb bitch" bc he thinks she killed his dad. his reasoning wasn’t even logical. it was so stupid. what was even dumber was how she just suddenly escaped. like haha i know where the key is let me just leave now when i could’ve done it way earlier. ITS SO AWFUL i’m so pissed. and let’s not even BEGIN to talk about the sexual assault in this book?? 😭😭😭 what the FUCK the way wren just came in and pushed her skirt up and there are so much more occurrences. quinn selling his soul to the devil wowow that’s so dark and cool and mysterious of him. what the hell man. be for real right now. hated this book, hated the ass plot, hated the characters, hated the awful writing. hated everything!!!! -19727 stars.
February 5, 2023
This retelling … just wow. The why choose factor mixed with the descriptions. And don’t even get me started on the quotes. It was beautifully written and has me salivating for the next part. The innocent FMC has a heart of gold and the strength of 1000 men in her soul. Just wow.
January 9, 2023
Loved this take on the Repunzel story. Who know Repunzel got down with three guys 😏 yes this a why choose lol
Dax and Quinn were my favorite characters hands down.
I wasn’t sure if there would be much spice in this one or if we were going to get it in book 2 but we got some spice in this one 😮💨
Dax and Quinn were my favorite characters hands down.
I wasn’t sure if there would be much spice in this one or if we were going to get it in book 2 but we got some spice in this one 😮💨
August 1, 2022
No spoilers:
A reverse harem dark retelling of a tale we all know well. The spice is exquisite, the men drool worthy and our Rapunzel is daring. This is not a story for people who have issues with violence. Like I mentioned - this is a dark retelling. Death, demon deals, witches, curses and gore are featured. I’d also include that on some level I’d categorize a portion of this book as a bully romance. There is hate, spite and resentment masking love on one side and guilt/long standing love and longing on the other. One of the best parts of this reverse harem? Renee doesn’t make Rapunzel choose! She has the attention of all three men. I’m going to be ecstatic when Renee releases the next book in this series!
Possible spoilers ahead:
Where to begin?! This is a stunning dark retelling of Rapunzel. True to tradition, our golden haired beauty has been locked away in a tower and isolated from the outside world by a witch. A twelve year old boy named Wren follows a figure he believes to be the mysterious witch through the forest. He is lead, whether incidentally or by fate, to a tall tower housing none other than a twelve year old Rapunzel. The pair quickly develop a friendship that continues for years. Amongst secret visits, an aging Wren pleads with Rapunzel to escape her tower and run away with him. However, Rapunzel is hesitant to share why this is not possible. Confused, frustrated and eventually grief-stricken Wren turns his back on Rapunzel. Now, a spiteful Wren and his two friends (Dax and Quinn) are on a mission and the first item on the agenda is to remove his beautiful childhood friend turned enemy from her wretched prison…
I initially found Wren to be insufferable - though I admittedly never stopped reading - but push through the irritation it’s worth it! Dax and Quinn truly make up for the moments Wren drove me crazy. This is a reverse harem where each man sees Rapunzel through a different set of eyes. Despite their loyal to the end brotherhood, not all men share the glaring resentment Wren feels for his childhood secret. However, they are willing participants in the twisted plans Wren has in store for little Rapunzel. I cherished the moments with each boy, ranging from passion driven to absolutely feral. Many reverse harems end with our FMC with a single love interest. If I had to choose my favorite pairing it’d have to be our demon-dealing ‘love for inflicting pain’ Quinn and Rapunzel (who he calls “princess”). Their moments feel deeper and more intimate than the rest - to the extent that I almost feel like I’m intruding on something truly personal. I have no idea what direction Renee plans on taking this story but I can’t wait to find out!
A reverse harem dark retelling of a tale we all know well. The spice is exquisite, the men drool worthy and our Rapunzel is daring. This is not a story for people who have issues with violence. Like I mentioned - this is a dark retelling. Death, demon deals, witches, curses and gore are featured. I’d also include that on some level I’d categorize a portion of this book as a bully romance. There is hate, spite and resentment masking love on one side and guilt/long standing love and longing on the other. One of the best parts of this reverse harem? Renee doesn’t make Rapunzel choose! She has the attention of all three men. I’m going to be ecstatic when Renee releases the next book in this series!
Possible spoilers ahead:
Where to begin?! This is a stunning dark retelling of Rapunzel. True to tradition, our golden haired beauty has been locked away in a tower and isolated from the outside world by a witch. A twelve year old boy named Wren follows a figure he believes to be the mysterious witch through the forest. He is lead, whether incidentally or by fate, to a tall tower housing none other than a twelve year old Rapunzel. The pair quickly develop a friendship that continues for years. Amongst secret visits, an aging Wren pleads with Rapunzel to escape her tower and run away with him. However, Rapunzel is hesitant to share why this is not possible. Confused, frustrated and eventually grief-stricken Wren turns his back on Rapunzel. Now, a spiteful Wren and his two friends (Dax and Quinn) are on a mission and the first item on the agenda is to remove his beautiful childhood friend turned enemy from her wretched prison…
I initially found Wren to be insufferable - though I admittedly never stopped reading - but push through the irritation it’s worth it! Dax and Quinn truly make up for the moments Wren drove me crazy. This is a reverse harem where each man sees Rapunzel through a different set of eyes. Despite their loyal to the end brotherhood, not all men share the glaring resentment Wren feels for his childhood secret. However, they are willing participants in the twisted plans Wren has in store for little Rapunzel. I cherished the moments with each boy, ranging from passion driven to absolutely feral. Many reverse harems end with our FMC with a single love interest. If I had to choose my favorite pairing it’d have to be our demon-dealing ‘love for inflicting pain’ Quinn and Rapunzel (who he calls “princess”). Their moments feel deeper and more intimate than the rest - to the extent that I almost feel like I’m intruding on something truly personal. I have no idea what direction Renee plans on taking this story but I can’t wait to find out!
August 27, 2022
Please read TW/CW because this book isn't for everyone and contains darker themes. So if it's not for you, it's not for you. ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Rating 4.5/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 💫
Spice Level 4/5🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
I have been waiting to read this because I am a sucker for retellings and I didn't know this was a why choose romance bro!I was shookt! I didn't know how that would work out, but damnnn Renee made it work, and omg and I was ALL IN!!!
It is one of these books where you wonder what the hell is going on and you still have the urge to theorize what the drama is all about because many things are in play. By the end of this book, I still am freaking shocked by that ending. And I was right with one of my theories.
I enjoyed the book a lot. I have been in a fantasy slump to be honest, but this is one of the best retellings I have ever read and OMG. Quinn, you delicious Ass Motherf9ck@. You are so my type. If you love dark fantasy with elements of dark romance. This is definitely the book for you. Yes, there is angst, but hell the angst is delicious AF! Sure, I will swallow it up and just gonna stand there and watch it burn cause I love the way it hurts okay? Yes, I am quoting Rihanna-ish.
- Childhood friends to enemies to lovers
- Angst
- Magic
- Why choose with 3 men
- Slow burn
- Dark Magic and more...
- Dubcon
- Extremely hot AF
Rating 4.5/5 ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 💫
Spice Level 4/5🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
I have been waiting to read this because I am a sucker for retellings and I didn't know this was a why choose romance bro!I was shookt! I didn't know how that would work out, but damnnn Renee made it work, and omg and I was ALL IN!!!
It is one of these books where you wonder what the hell is going on and you still have the urge to theorize what the drama is all about because many things are in play. By the end of this book, I still am freaking shocked by that ending. And I was right with one of my theories.
I enjoyed the book a lot. I have been in a fantasy slump to be honest, but this is one of the best retellings I have ever read and OMG. Quinn, you delicious Ass Motherf9ck@. You are so my type. If you love dark fantasy with elements of dark romance. This is definitely the book for you. Yes, there is angst, but hell the angst is delicious AF! Sure, I will swallow it up and just gonna stand there and watch it burn cause I love the way it hurts okay? Yes, I am quoting Rihanna-ish.
- Childhood friends to enemies to lovers
- Angst
- Magic
- Why choose with 3 men
- Slow burn
- Dark Magic and more...
- Dubcon
- Extremely hot AF
July 17, 2022
First, I want to say thank you for letting me receive an ARC of this book! It is my first ARC ever and I'm really happy that my first ARC is a book I have enjoyed to read so much. It has been a great pleasure
As a girl who has always really liked the classic Rapunzel stories, I went into the book with an open mind, And I have to say that I truly enjoyed this dark retelling.
This book shows the POV of multiple of the characters in the book, and at the start we follow one of the MMC from the time that he is a boy and we see him grow up to become a man, and you really can feel the connection and tension he feels towards Rapunzel. That also counts when the other MMC joins in and we get to have them all together.
I had a few moments in the book where I didn't understand what happened, but the more I read it the more I understood everything and at the last few chapters I couldn't put the book down. the book ended on a cliffhanger and I'm realy looking forward to see where the story goes in the next book
So for me, in overall it was a really nice and good dark retelling, with a nice amount of smut. So I would definitively recommend this book to anyone who like RH, dark retellings and smut!
As a girl who has always really liked the classic Rapunzel stories, I went into the book with an open mind, And I have to say that I truly enjoyed this dark retelling.
This book shows the POV of multiple of the characters in the book, and at the start we follow one of the MMC from the time that he is a boy and we see him grow up to become a man, and you really can feel the connection and tension he feels towards Rapunzel. That also counts when the other MMC joins in and we get to have them all together.
I had a few moments in the book where I didn't understand what happened, but the more I read it the more I understood everything and at the last few chapters I couldn't put the book down. the book ended on a cliffhanger and I'm realy looking forward to see where the story goes in the next book
So for me, in overall it was a really nice and good dark retelling, with a nice amount of smut. So I would definitively recommend this book to anyone who like RH, dark retellings and smut!
October 25, 2024
Rapunzel is my Disney Princess. Tangled is my jam, I love everything and everyone and maaaaan oh man. I had to disassociate. I had to physically stop reading at some points just so I could make sure my brain knew not to connect these two together because this book… Ugh. This book was not it.
It started off as everything I wanted it to be. Man. Those chapters of Wren finding Rapunzel and going back to her time and time again. My heart couldn't handle it. I was so happy reading those first like… 50 pages.
And then everything took a turn. Not a turn that I liked. I LIKED the idea that there could be politics involved, but it was just so poorly done. And it was so cringey. Beyond cringey. There was zero development in any relationship that wasn't between Rapunzel and Wren. And the development in their relationship was a bloody mess. A MESS.
I didn’t like the characters. I didn’t connect with the characters. The story was shallow, and not well developed. And I got super lost early on because Wren was being trained to be a knight, and then all of a sudden his dad was being murdered by John even though they were besties… and like… did I miss the part where they weren’t besties anymore?
I’m reading the second book because it’s short, and I can get to the conclusion of this story quickly.
It started off as everything I wanted it to be. Man. Those chapters of Wren finding Rapunzel and going back to her time and time again. My heart couldn't handle it. I was so happy reading those first like… 50 pages.
And then everything took a turn. Not a turn that I liked. I LIKED the idea that there could be politics involved, but it was just so poorly done. And it was so cringey. Beyond cringey. There was zero development in any relationship that wasn't between Rapunzel and Wren. And the development in their relationship was a bloody mess. A MESS.
I didn’t like the characters. I didn’t connect with the characters. The story was shallow, and not well developed. And I got super lost early on because Wren was being trained to be a knight, and then all of a sudden his dad was being murdered by John even though they were besties… and like… did I miss the part where they weren’t besties anymore?
I’m reading the second book because it’s short, and I can get to the conclusion of this story quickly.
October 10, 2022
It’s a why choose Rapunzel retelling, what more can I say?
Interesting take on her powers, predictable plot, decent smut? (Content warning for some dub con) Will be reading the rest of the series for curiosity’s sake.
Definitely didn’t like the lowkey almost bully romance happening with her and one of the love interests. Like I get his anger, but not the way to go.
I will say wtf is up with this being a 286 page “book” and it ending at 206 (72%) that was abrupt. And then having 80 pages of a “look” into another one of her books? (The kindle/kindle unlimited version, at least)
Interesting take on her powers, predictable plot, decent smut? (Content warning for some dub con) Will be reading the rest of the series for curiosity’s sake.
Definitely didn’t like the lowkey almost bully romance happening with her and one of the love interests. Like I get his anger, but not the way to go.
I will say wtf is up with this being a 286 page “book” and it ending at 206 (72%) that was abrupt. And then having 80 pages of a “look” into another one of her books? (The kindle/kindle unlimited version, at least)
July 7, 2022
Can I just say that this book is absolutely amazing!!!!!!! Imagine Rapunzel, her deliciously morally skewed RH, all the right spice, and *bam* it's all in one incredibly written book! I literally could not stop reading once I started! I kept thinking, I'll wait for a good stopping point, and next thing I knew it was past midnight and there wasn't anymore to read. I loved this book and can't wait for the next in the series!!!!!!!
July 8, 2022
What a ride.
I was hooked from the first page. I've always been a fan of retellings and this has undoubtedly moved its way up my list. It has everything you could want...friends to enemies to lovers and all the spice you could want.
The pacing, I felt, was well done and I was able to get to know and grow attached to the characters to the point that I spent every spare moment to continue reading to see what happened.
Very excited for the next installment!!
I was hooked from the first page. I've always been a fan of retellings and this has undoubtedly moved its way up my list. It has everything you could want...friends to enemies to lovers and all the spice you could want.
The pacing, I felt, was well done and I was able to get to know and grow attached to the characters to the point that I spent every spare moment to continue reading to see what happened.
Very excited for the next installment!!
December 27, 2022
‘Loyalty is everything. Without loyalty, there is no trust. Without trust, there are only lies, betrayal, and bloodshed.’
Twisted is the first book in Renee's The Grim Tower duet. This is a reimagined version of the story of Rapunzel, with some robin hood vibes. A girl locked in a tower but everything is not as it seems until 12 year old Wren comes along and finds the beautiful Rapunzel.
I love a good why choose and this definitely ticked the right boxes for me. Wren, Dax and Quinn are just 😘 all different but work so well together and of course morally grey, dominating and gorgeous. I loved the ideas behind the story line as well, for me it has some robin hood vibes which I loved. Chapter 11,13 and 24 🥵 (just something to look forward to).
Some great writing, the spice is so good, the characters are obsession worthy. If you like spicy retellings with friends to ex-friends to enemies to lovers trope vibes and why choose tropes then this is for you. I was kindly gifted the ARC for the second book so I can't wait to see how the groups story ends 😁
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Twisted is the first book in Renee's The Grim Tower duet. This is a reimagined version of the story of Rapunzel, with some robin hood vibes. A girl locked in a tower but everything is not as it seems until 12 year old Wren comes along and finds the beautiful Rapunzel.
I love a good why choose and this definitely ticked the right boxes for me. Wren, Dax and Quinn are just 😘 all different but work so well together and of course morally grey, dominating and gorgeous. I loved the ideas behind the story line as well, for me it has some robin hood vibes which I loved. Chapter 11,13 and 24 🥵 (just something to look forward to).
Some great writing, the spice is so good, the characters are obsession worthy. If you like spicy retellings with friends to ex-friends to enemies to lovers trope vibes and why choose tropes then this is for you. I was kindly gifted the ARC for the second book so I can't wait to see how the groups story ends 😁
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2023
Ms. Rocco is a masterful storyteller with this why choose, reverse harem, romantic fantasy retelling of Rapunzel. Twisted, which is part one in The Grim Tower Duet is absolutely fantastic! It's dark and erotic and leaves you wanting more. Left on a cliff hanger, I for one, am looking forward to starting Twined!
July 5, 2022
Read this book in a day it was that good at keeping me entertained.
The dark version of Rapunzel, this is better then any of the original fairytale. It is dark and spicy all that the same time. Did I mention it’s a reverse harem and Rapunzel gets three amazing men.
It did leave on a cliff hanger but it is just making me want to get the next book.
It’s also Multiple POVs so we get everyone’s point of views. There is also a plot and not just smut. You could take the smut out and it would still be a good book.
The dark version of Rapunzel, this is better then any of the original fairytale. It is dark and spicy all that the same time. Did I mention it’s a reverse harem and Rapunzel gets three amazing men.
It did leave on a cliff hanger but it is just making me want to get the next book.
It’s also Multiple POVs so we get everyone’s point of views. There is also a plot and not just smut. You could take the smut out and it would still be a good book.
September 3, 2022
4 stars for me. I love a dark fairytale retelling and this was a spicy - SPICY - retelling of Rapunzel.
Now - I did feel like this book switched too quickly from their childhood cuteness to their finger fucking outside of the tower at an older age. Or at least, that’s how it felt INITIALLY. However, me feeling that initially changed because of how much information was in the back end of the book. If there was more info about their childhood then there wouldn’t have been room for the RH stuff. You win some you lose some. And really, all bases were covered, albeit maybe not has thoroughly as I would have liked.
I will recommend it - and I may even read it again - and I may also now spiral down a rabbit hole and read everything from this author. Good day.
Now - I did feel like this book switched too quickly from their childhood cuteness to their finger fucking outside of the tower at an older age. Or at least, that’s how it felt INITIALLY. However, me feeling that initially changed because of how much information was in the back end of the book. If there was more info about their childhood then there wouldn’t have been room for the RH stuff. You win some you lose some. And really, all bases were covered, albeit maybe not has thoroughly as I would have liked.
I will recommend it - and I may even read it again - and I may also now spiral down a rabbit hole and read everything from this author. Good day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2022
Plot: .5
Writing: 1
World building: .5
Characters: 1
Themes: 0
3/5
Spice: 3/5
Spicy why choose Tangled re-telling. It's a quick read, a couple group scenes. I recommend this if you like Rapunzel and Spice. Read it for the smut, not the plot.
Writing: 1
World building: .5
Characters: 1
Themes: 0
3/5
Spice: 3/5
Spicy why choose Tangled re-telling. It's a quick read, a couple group scenes. I recommend this if you like Rapunzel and Spice. Read it for the smut, not the plot.
January 29, 2023
3/5 ⭐️ 1.5/5 🌶
honestly, it was lacking 😅 spice is kind of there. The plot was alright, though it was a fun read. I needed something to break off me crying from the other series that I'm reading, so it was alright. Honestly, since I started this, I might as well finish it because I kinda liked it
honestly, it was lacking 😅 spice is kind of there. The plot was alright, though it was a fun read. I needed something to break off me crying from the other series that I'm reading, so it was alright. Honestly, since I started this, I might as well finish it because I kinda liked it
August 2, 2022
HOLYMOTHEROFDARKNESS. Screams this was absolutely a must read!
Speechless.
Full review to come!
Speechless.
Full review to come!
August 19, 2022
A dark and interesting take on Rapunzel's story. Aside from the spice, it is a really cool take on the original story. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
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