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Tales of Goldstone Wood #2
Veiled Rose
Rose Red trusts no one with her secret. She hides in the forest, her face veiled in rags, shunning the company of all save her old father and her nanny goat. Her life is bleak and lonely.
Until she meets a privileged young man sent to spend his summer in the mountains. Headstrong young Leo startles everyone by befriending Rose Red, and together they begin searching for the monster rumored to be stalking these lands.
But the hunt, which began as a game, holds greater risk than either imagines. Soon both are forced to test their trust in each other as a far more terrifying scourge puts their entire land at risk.
Until she meets a privileged young man sent to spend his summer in the mountains. Headstrong young Leo startles everyone by befriending Rose Red, and together they begin searching for the monster rumored to be stalking these lands.
But the hunt, which began as a game, holds greater risk than either imagines. Soon both are forced to test their trust in each other as a far more terrifying scourge puts their entire land at risk.
394 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2011
47 people are currently reading
2067 people want to read
About the author
Anne Elisabeth Stengl
20 books806 followersAnne Elisabeth Stengl makes her home in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a passel of cats, and one long-suffering dog. When she's not writing, she enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and studies piano, painting, and pastry baking. She studied illustration at Grace College and English literature at Campbell University. She is the author of the TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD, which currently includes seven novels and two novellas, with plenty more works due to release over the next few years. Her novels HEARTLESS, VEILED ROSE, and DRAGONWITCH have each been honored with a Christy Award, and STARFLOWER was voted winner of the 2013 Clive Staples Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
June 19, 2018
If the theme of Heartless was true love, this one is true beauty.
Still loving it, even on the second time through. <3
On to what may well be my favorite fantasy book ever.
Original Review:
4.5 stars, but I'll round up.
This book was SO GOOD. It took me a little while to get into it, but once I was in, I was hooked and could not escape. It was amazing. I could not stop reading.
Things I liked:
-Rose Red was so wonderful and sweet and the epitome of a strong female character. Her strength was quiet and tranquil, but it was realistic and she was all around amazing. One of my favorite female protagonists :)
-Leonard. I will admit that I didn't like him at all in Heartless, despite knowing that he just made a mistake, because you only saw Una's story in that book and didn't get to know what happened to cause it with Leo. But now that I know.... poor baby. *huggles Leo and covers his ears*
-Daylily. She was so real and amazing.
-The Heartless references. Getting the first half or so of that book from Leo's POV was so great. I loved that part :D
-Beana. I could write an entire review all about her. I jut hope she gets a bigger role in one of the later books :)
-The plot was riveting. And the twist at the end, when we find out why she wears the veil... mind. Blown. I suspected something similar... but it was still a major twist.
Things I didn't Like:
-there wasn't much. I'm shaving off a half star, though, because of the whole allegory thing. In Heartless the allegory was very obvious and made a lot of sense. In Veiled Rose, I was pretty sure it was still allegorical, but I couldn't tell exactly what the allegory meant. But that's my only real complaint!
All in all, a solid 4.5 stars and I'm glad I bought it!
Still loving it, even on the second time through. <3
On to what may well be my favorite fantasy book ever.
Original Review:
4.5 stars, but I'll round up.
This book was SO GOOD. It took me a little while to get into it, but once I was in, I was hooked and could not escape. It was amazing. I could not stop reading.
Things I liked:
-Rose Red was so wonderful and sweet and the epitome of a strong female character. Her strength was quiet and tranquil, but it was realistic and she was all around amazing. One of my favorite female protagonists :)
-Leonard. I will admit that I didn't like him at all in Heartless, despite knowing that he just made a mistake, because you only saw Una's story in that book and didn't get to know what happened to cause it with Leo. But now that I know.... poor baby. *huggles Leo and covers his ears*
-Daylily. She was so real and amazing.
-The Heartless references. Getting the first half or so of that book from Leo's POV was so great. I loved that part :D
-Beana. I could write an entire review all about her. I jut hope she gets a bigger role in one of the later books :)
-The plot was riveting. And the twist at the end, when we find out why she wears the veil... mind. Blown. I suspected something similar... but it was still a major twist.
Things I didn't Like:
-there wasn't much. I'm shaving off a half star, though, because of the whole allegory thing. In Heartless the allegory was very obvious and made a lot of sense. In Veiled Rose, I was pretty sure it was still allegorical, but I couldn't tell exactly what the allegory meant. But that's my only real complaint!
All in all, a solid 4.5 stars and I'm glad I bought it!
December 8, 2015
Did Ms. Stengl just write a book better than Heartless? Why yes, yes she did!!
Rose Red is now forever in my heart <3
Rose Red is now forever in my heart <3
May 23, 2016
I’m sorry to be the odd one out, but I didn’t get into this as much as Heartless. I dragged through most of it. Maybe it was because I had forgotten stuff from the first book, so that I didn’t make the connection until I was reading something random about Heartless. But once I got closer to the end…it was great!
Rose Red has a secret. A secret that has her living in isolation in the mountains with nothing but an old man she calls father and her nanny goat. But then she meets headstrong Leo, who quickly becomes her friend, when no one else would. Together they play and search for a monster rumored to be in the mountains. But their trust in each other is tested when something more real and terrifying than anything they could imagine, comes to their land.
Leo, oh Leo. I must say, he was one of my favorite characters. His humor and his temper were fun to watch. There was times when I disliked him and the decisions or actions he took, but that made him more real. People have faults; they make mistakes. Don’t you at some points dislike real people? So when I disliked him, I still considered him one of my favorites. I’m glad to watch him learn from his choices. And I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of that in the coming books. Rose Red was…interesting. I didn’t connect with her very well, but she was still really great to read about. I loved how far she was willing to go to keep her promises. I enjoyed watching the way she and Leo conversed together. It was so cute and sweet.
I thought about the first half was slow. I just couldn’t get into it, maybe because the characters were so young at the beginning and it kind of put me off. I’m not sure, because there was plenty of mystery to keep a person interested. But it did pick up speed towards the end and there was so much action and danger. I started to worry for a bit! What a conclusion! It was kind of sad. Thank goodness there is more to this series.
The tale switched between Leo and Rose Red’s point of view. Randomly, there were a few other points of view that added intrigue. This book went through a whole decade and more of time, but at no point did it get confusing. I still felt connected to the characters even after skipping over years of their lives. I have to say, that is quite an achievement.
This is a perfect blend of fantasy, fairytale, and allegory. I’m just beginning to realize how allegorical this series is. I don’t think I realized that in the first book. This is for all the people who like this kind of story. You don’t want to miss it.
You can check out this review on my blog too, at: https://aheartredeemed.wordpress.com/... Thanks!
Rose Red has a secret. A secret that has her living in isolation in the mountains with nothing but an old man she calls father and her nanny goat. But then she meets headstrong Leo, who quickly becomes her friend, when no one else would. Together they play and search for a monster rumored to be in the mountains. But their trust in each other is tested when something more real and terrifying than anything they could imagine, comes to their land.
Leo, oh Leo. I must say, he was one of my favorite characters. His humor and his temper were fun to watch. There was times when I disliked him and the decisions or actions he took, but that made him more real. People have faults; they make mistakes. Don’t you at some points dislike real people? So when I disliked him, I still considered him one of my favorites. I’m glad to watch him learn from his choices. And I’m sure we’ll be seeing more of that in the coming books. Rose Red was…interesting. I didn’t connect with her very well, but she was still really great to read about. I loved how far she was willing to go to keep her promises. I enjoyed watching the way she and Leo conversed together. It was so cute and sweet.
I thought about the first half was slow. I just couldn’t get into it, maybe because the characters were so young at the beginning and it kind of put me off. I’m not sure, because there was plenty of mystery to keep a person interested. But it did pick up speed towards the end and there was so much action and danger. I started to worry for a bit! What a conclusion! It was kind of sad. Thank goodness there is more to this series.
The tale switched between Leo and Rose Red’s point of view. Randomly, there were a few other points of view that added intrigue. This book went through a whole decade and more of time, but at no point did it get confusing. I still felt connected to the characters even after skipping over years of their lives. I have to say, that is quite an achievement.
This is a perfect blend of fantasy, fairytale, and allegory. I’m just beginning to realize how allegorical this series is. I don’t think I realized that in the first book. This is for all the people who like this kind of story. You don’t want to miss it.
You can check out this review on my blog too, at: https://aheartredeemed.wordpress.com/... Thanks!
January 9, 2020
The first time I read this story I gave it 3 stars. I liked it, but didn't appreciate the exqusite truths this treasure of a book holds in its pages.
"There is only one who can stand up to that Monster in the end. Our strength must always give out at last, but his never will."
This book is so beautiful, y'all. Glad I decided to reread it cause it deserves 5 stars. ❤
"There is only one who can stand up to that Monster in the end. Our strength must always give out at last, but his never will."
This book is so beautiful, y'all. Glad I decided to reread it cause it deserves 5 stars. ❤
March 1, 2015
In "Heartless" we learned the story of Una. Now in "Veiled Rose" we learn of a girl named Rose Red. She has to be one of the sweetest characters in literature.
Rosie wears veils to hide her appearance. She's spunky and stubborn. But perhaps she learned that from her Nanny goat.
As far as Rosie is concerned, all her friends are imaginary. So she's only too happy to make acquaintance with a young impetuous boy called Leo. He's looking for a mountain monster, and thus a friendship begins...
Most of "Veiled Rose" takes place before "Heartless" and as the story overlaps, the reader understands people and hints in the first book that they didn't get before.
The novel is charming as we watch Rosie's and Leo's friendship blossom...and heart-wrenching as we see it start to wither.
The author has weaved a beautiful story here about judging by appearances. The writing will draw you in. You will laugh at childhood antics, you will hold your breath as darkness covers all, you will cry over Rosie's struggles...and you will be dying for the next book "Moonblood."
"Veiled Rose" is a love story. But not in the way you think. It will not disappoint you, I'm sure.
Read this book...read it and learn.
Rosie wears veils to hide her appearance. She's spunky and stubborn. But perhaps she learned that from her Nanny goat.
As far as Rosie is concerned, all her friends are imaginary. So she's only too happy to make acquaintance with a young impetuous boy called Leo. He's looking for a mountain monster, and thus a friendship begins...
Most of "Veiled Rose" takes place before "Heartless" and as the story overlaps, the reader understands people and hints in the first book that they didn't get before.
The novel is charming as we watch Rosie's and Leo's friendship blossom...and heart-wrenching as we see it start to wither.
The author has weaved a beautiful story here about judging by appearances. The writing will draw you in. You will laugh at childhood antics, you will hold your breath as darkness covers all, you will cry over Rosie's struggles...and you will be dying for the next book "Moonblood."
"Veiled Rose" is a love story. But not in the way you think. It will not disappoint you, I'm sure.
Read this book...read it and learn.
June 2, 2023
When I finished it, my first instinct was to take away a star because I was sad and disappointed, but then I thought, why? This completely crushed every expectation that I had, and you rarely find a book like this. Yes, it's painful, but it has a powerful message. I have a feeling it's going to get better in the following books too... but even if it doesn't, it still deserves five stars. In the previous book a common reader would relate to the main character because of all her flaws. In this book, we look up to the main character, Rose Red, because of her steadfastness... and her secret.
December 28, 2018
This definitely was not as good as the first one but this still was an amazing book! I cannot wait to start the third one.
While the first book was about true love, this one was about true beauty. And I cannot wait to see what the third one is about!!
While the first book was about true love, this one was about true beauty. And I cannot wait to see what the third one is about!!
September 10, 2016
Lovely sequel to Heartless ... I am intrigued!
July 20, 2023
4.5⭐, rounded down only because Part Four (out of five) was rather tedious. However, overall, this was an amazing book.
I love how Stengl set up the series-timeline. Veiled Rose actually goes back in time to before the events of Heartless, then, by the second third, catches up and gives us Lionheart's POV on scenes we read in Heartless from Una's perspective. I know that doesn't sound fabulous, but trust me, it is!😍 It also helped me connect the dots on a couple of things that confused me in the first book.
I was hoping for more of . I like how Stengl creates redemption-needy characters who are relatable. They are not entirely bad. We see both the good and the bad in these characters, which creates characters we can relate to and care for.
Stengl's writing style is absolutely beautiful other than a few instances of repetitious phrasing/vocabulary. I never felt brought out of the story due to disjointedness or confusion. She also handles dual POVs very well. Her themes are woven throughout the story and brought to lovely conclusions. Eshkhan, the wood thrush, is woven throughout this story at just the right times, with just the right messages. So well done! On to Moonblood!
I love how Stengl set up the series-timeline. Veiled Rose actually goes back in time to before the events of Heartless, then, by the second third, catches up and gives us Lionheart's POV on scenes we read in Heartless from Una's perspective. I know that doesn't sound fabulous, but trust me, it is!😍 It also helped me connect the dots on a couple of things that confused me in the first book.
I was hoping for more of . I like how Stengl creates redemption-needy characters who are relatable. They are not entirely bad. We see both the good and the bad in these characters, which creates characters we can relate to and care for.
Stengl's writing style is absolutely beautiful other than a few instances of repetitious phrasing/vocabulary. I never felt brought out of the story due to disjointedness or confusion. She also handles dual POVs very well. Her themes are woven throughout the story and brought to lovely conclusions. Eshkhan, the wood thrush, is woven throughout this story at just the right times, with just the right messages. So well done! On to Moonblood!
September 29, 2011
I've seen many great reviews of this series, but I have to be honest and say that I just didn't "get it." I think it hindered my reading that I didn't read the first book, but the story was just way too cryptic for my tastes. I felt like I wandered through the book in a fog that made no sense. I wanted at least one straight answer to my many questions.
I liked Leo's character and his growth. I especially liked that the author started to call him by his full name, "Lionheart", when he really became a man instead of a boy. However, I felt off-balance the whole time by his three love interests. The girl that was in the story the least, whom we knew the least about, was the girl that he was in love with. This really confused me and I didn't feel connected to her at all.
I actually liked how complex Daylily's character was, even if she wasn't always likable. At least the reader could understand her feelings and she had some redeeming moments where she did the right thing. I also loved Beana, the goat. She was a great mentor and gave a lot of guidance.
The lack of happily ever after and the confusion I felt even at the end contributed to why I didn't enjoy the book as much as I had hoped.
I'm glad this book has so many great reviews, but it wasn't for me. I grew tired of the mixed messages and trying to decipher even the smallest things about the story.
sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
I liked Leo's character and his growth. I especially liked that the author started to call him by his full name, "Lionheart", when he really became a man instead of a boy. However, I felt off-balance the whole time by his three love interests. The girl that was in the story the least, whom we knew the least about, was the girl that he was in love with. This really confused me and I didn't feel connected to her at all.
I actually liked how complex Daylily's character was, even if she wasn't always likable. At least the reader could understand her feelings and she had some redeeming moments where she did the right thing. I also loved Beana, the goat. She was a great mentor and gave a lot of guidance.
The lack of happily ever after and the confusion I felt even at the end contributed to why I didn't enjoy the book as much as I had hoped.
I'm glad this book has so many great reviews, but it wasn't for me. I grew tired of the mixed messages and trying to decipher even the smallest things about the story.
sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
April 29, 2017
I just read this book for the second time. What can I say? There's so much to this story, I'm not sure how I'm supposed to review it.
It's a Tale of Goldstone Wood. That's about all that needs to be said. It's funny. It's dark. It's colorful. It's smoke-covered. It's frightening. It makes me happy. It inspires me.
Lionheart was an adorable little kid! It was cool to watch him grow up and become who he was in Heartless. And it was awesome to see some of the scenes from Heartless from Lionheart's point of view! (And Monster took his Jester hat. :D :D :D)
Rose Red is extremely likable and a lot of fun to read about. :)
This book contains the most hilarious part in any book I've ever read. When Lionheart is talking in another language and gets it all wrong—I was laughing hysterically! I love it. :D
Dark, smoky, dangerous, beautiful, colorful, and inspiring, come together in a cascade of awesomeness to make Veiled Rose.
This isn't a complaint, it's more of a statement:
Long story short, I love this book. I love this series. I'm so thankful for it, because it makes me laugh, it's an epic tale to read, it's full of characters I love, and it tells me what I need to hear.
It's a Tale of Goldstone Wood. That's about all that needs to be said. It's funny. It's dark. It's colorful. It's smoke-covered. It's frightening. It makes me happy. It inspires me.
Lionheart was an adorable little kid! It was cool to watch him grow up and become who he was in Heartless. And it was awesome to see some of the scenes from Heartless from Lionheart's point of view! (And Monster took his Jester hat. :D :D :D)
Rose Red is extremely likable and a lot of fun to read about. :)
This book contains the most hilarious part in any book I've ever read. When Lionheart is talking in another language and gets it all wrong—I was laughing hysterically! I love it. :D
Dark, smoky, dangerous, beautiful, colorful, and inspiring, come together in a cascade of awesomeness to make Veiled Rose.
This isn't a complaint, it's more of a statement:
Long story short, I love this book. I love this series. I'm so thankful for it, because it makes me laugh, it's an epic tale to read, it's full of characters I love, and it tells me what I need to hear.
September 23, 2011
Veiled Rose is an intricately woven book, full of fresh fantasy with a classic feel. The story follows two complex main characters, Rose Red, a mysterious girl who covers her secret with veils, and Leo, a young prince who is always ready for adventure.
Veiled Rose reads like a timeless classic, a bit slow going at times but well worth reading. Ms. Stengl weaves an ethereal spell throughout the book, with complicated plotlines laid down ever so subtly. It is a rich, engaging and all together enjoyable book.
At first, I worried that I might not "get it" because I haven't yet read the first novel in the series, but I soon found that Veiled Rose stood on its own splendidly.
Another thing that I wanted to bring up was that this book was far away from being predictable, and I think that's what made it enjoyable. I could never fully guess what was coming next, it pretty much always took me by surprise! And I loved that.
Overall Veiled Rose is a beautiful book that is entirely too easy to get lost in. I believe that it will thrill fans of the Classic Fairy Tale, as well as fans of Christian Fantasy, and some who aren't fans of either!
Final Rating: 4.75 out of 5
Veiled Rose reads like a timeless classic, a bit slow going at times but well worth reading. Ms. Stengl weaves an ethereal spell throughout the book, with complicated plotlines laid down ever so subtly. It is a rich, engaging and all together enjoyable book.
At first, I worried that I might not "get it" because I haven't yet read the first novel in the series, but I soon found that Veiled Rose stood on its own splendidly.
Another thing that I wanted to bring up was that this book was far away from being predictable, and I think that's what made it enjoyable. I could never fully guess what was coming next, it pretty much always took me by surprise! And I loved that.
Overall Veiled Rose is a beautiful book that is entirely too easy to get lost in. I believe that it will thrill fans of the Classic Fairy Tale, as well as fans of Christian Fantasy, and some who aren't fans of either!
Final Rating: 4.75 out of 5
March 15, 2016
(Good thing this is only part one... I'd give this fewer stars if that was the end--that wasn't an ending!--but fortunately I know the story continues... I need to read Moonblood, NOW.)
October 25, 2021
This kind of...confused me.
It started out very slowly, and then was weirdly unsatisfying in a lot of ways. Why was Rose Red hiding her face in the beginning, and why did it change in the middle? Why did the dragon Who is the weird dream lady? Why is Daylily unhappy? What happened with the whole romance thread?
I also thought that it felt a bit like it was just there to explain why Leonard was in the first book? Idk. It felt very anti-climatic after all the set-up that what happened at the end/middle was all there was.
On the other hand...the themes of love vs. use, friendship, how sometimes following one's dreams is not the way to go, &c. were quite good. So, I mean, I'm glad I took the time to read it, I think, but I don't think I'm going to continue with the series.
3 stars, because I'm feeling mean today. XD
It started out very slowly, and then was weirdly unsatisfying in a lot of ways. Why was Rose Red hiding her face in the beginning, and why did it change in the middle? Why did the dragon Who is the weird dream lady? Why is Daylily unhappy? What happened with the whole romance thread?
I also thought that it felt a bit like it was just there to explain why Leonard was in the first book? Idk. It felt very anti-climatic after all the set-up that what happened at the end/middle was all there was.
On the other hand...the themes of love vs. use, friendship, how sometimes following one's dreams is not the way to go, &c. were quite good. So, I mean, I'm glad I took the time to read it, I think, but I don't think I'm going to continue with the series.
3 stars, because I'm feeling mean today. XD
September 26, 2011
It took me a little while to get into this book. It moves quite slowly, but once it did grab my attention, it kept it. It's under 400 pages, but it seemed long. It felt like I had to read forever to get to the end. That's not necessarily bad, though. I was just so incredibly curious what was hidden under Rose Red's veil that I couldn't get to the end quick enough.
I felt like I was missing details. At times I was really confused, and didn't know who characters were suppose to be. I had to go back and re-read some parts, but still remained confused. This is the second in the series, and I haven't read the first one, so that may be the reason for confusion. I do plan on going back to Heartless, and I can't wait to read the final book next year. From my understanding Veiled Rose goes back in time from Heartless.
Contrary to what it looks like, I loved this book! It thrills me that fantasy books are sometimes published as Christian books, and it gives those that only read Christian book a chance to enter into the world of dragons and fairies and all. I get to read my favorite type of book without worrying about profanity. This book can be read perfectly fine by those who do or don't read Christian books.
I really loved Rose Red's character, and the mystery surrounding who she is. Her and Beana are probably the only characters that I really like right now. I'm very much looking forward to what part they play in the next book.
If I didn't know there are two other books in the series to tie together, I would have hated the ending. It was just heartbreaking!
Veiled Rose was just a beautiful book! You should definitely pick it up, and enter into a wonderful (and horrible) world of dragons and princesses.
*I was provided a review copy from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion.
I felt like I was missing details. At times I was really confused, and didn't know who characters were suppose to be. I had to go back and re-read some parts, but still remained confused. This is the second in the series, and I haven't read the first one, so that may be the reason for confusion. I do plan on going back to Heartless, and I can't wait to read the final book next year. From my understanding Veiled Rose goes back in time from Heartless.
Contrary to what it looks like, I loved this book! It thrills me that fantasy books are sometimes published as Christian books, and it gives those that only read Christian book a chance to enter into the world of dragons and fairies and all. I get to read my favorite type of book without worrying about profanity. This book can be read perfectly fine by those who do or don't read Christian books.
I really loved Rose Red's character, and the mystery surrounding who she is. Her and Beana are probably the only characters that I really like right now. I'm very much looking forward to what part they play in the next book.
If I didn't know there are two other books in the series to tie together, I would have hated the ending. It was just heartbreaking!
Veiled Rose was just a beautiful book! You should definitely pick it up, and enter into a wonderful (and horrible) world of dragons and princesses.
*I was provided a review copy from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 3, 2016
Fantasy was my first love as a reader, so I always end up coming back to that for comfort and for the love of the genre. Veiled Rose definitely hit all of the marks that I love about fantasy. The allegory wasn't as clear to me in this story as it was in the first book, Heartless, but it was still present.
I enjoyed Heartless, but I enjoyed Veiled Rose even more. The main characters were more likable to me. Rose Red, though she had her secrets, was endearing, and her struggles felt genuine. Prince Lionheart...well, let's just say I didn't like him in Heartless. In Veiled Rose, we get his side of the story leading up to when he met Una in Heartless. I really came to empathize and like his character a lot more in this story. Some of the decisions that he made had me a little angry, but I thought the redemptive nature of the allegory was really highlighted by the consequences of those decisions.
I did come away with a TON of questions...who in the world is Beana, really?? Why doesn't she just tell Rose Red the truth? What else is there behind the Prince of Farthestshore's character? Why did the dragon think that Rose Red was the beloved of his enemy and not realize it was Una? What's up with bro and sis, Dream and Death thing that's going on? And I could probably think of more :)
Needless to say, I will be checking out the next book in the series in my next library trip. The ending wasn't really a cliff-hanger, but I am eager to find out what happens to them next.
I enjoyed Heartless, but I enjoyed Veiled Rose even more. The main characters were more likable to me. Rose Red, though she had her secrets, was endearing, and her struggles felt genuine. Prince Lionheart...well, let's just say I didn't like him in Heartless. In Veiled Rose, we get his side of the story leading up to when he met Una in Heartless. I really came to empathize and like his character a lot more in this story. Some of the decisions that he made had me a little angry, but I thought the redemptive nature of the allegory was really highlighted by the consequences of those decisions.
I did come away with a TON of questions...who in the world is Beana, really?? Why doesn't she just tell Rose Red the truth? What else is there behind the Prince of Farthestshore's character? Why did the dragon think that Rose Red was the beloved of his enemy and not realize it was Una? What's up with bro and sis, Dream and Death thing that's going on? And I could probably think of more :)
Needless to say, I will be checking out the next book in the series in my next library trip. The ending wasn't really a cliff-hanger, but I am eager to find out what happens to them next.
September 1, 2011
I don't frequently read books by contemporary writers, and even less frequently do I enjoy them. "Veiled Rose," however, was more than a pleasant surprise; it is a fantastic (no pun intended) story, weaving so many threads together and creating so much tension that the book is impossible to abandon. One thing in particular I admire about the writing is the humor, which in many books is stale or absurd, but which in this one is hilariously dry. I have not yet read the first book in the series, Heartless, but I fully intend to - and will be eagerly awaiting Moonblood's release.
January 13, 2024
I wrote a review and then I lost it because of bad internet connection, so I'll summarize: I had vaguely negative opinions this time around but many of those were due to reading the book in about three hours. The allegory & otherworldliness doesn't always work for me, and you definitely need to read the preceding and following books to understand (sort of) what's going on here. Still, a solid book. 3.5 stars.
did-not-finish
March 24, 2020Stengl is such a talented author and I loved heartless but... I just like fantasy less as time goes on. If you love fantasy, read these books. Stengl's talent makes me wish I enjoyed it more.
June 22, 2023
I guess this is my summer for rereading Tales of Goldstone Wood?? (Except Heartless; sorry but it’s just, well, it’s a debut novel and while it’s better than most debut novels, compared to the rest of this series, I’ll pass on it.) I happened to be thinking about Starflower—my absolute favorite—the other day and before you know it, I got a hankering to re-explore all these Faerie adventures. I’ve missed the Knights of Farthestshore, the Wood Between, and of course the wood thrush.
Amazing how AES can make me root for Leo, for all his many faults. Every character is compelling and the prose never fails to put me under its spell.
Amazing how AES can make me root for Leo, for all his many faults. Every character is compelling and the prose never fails to put me under its spell.
December 9, 2017
Wow! Another great book in the series. It's been awhile since the first book so I only remembered bits and pieces of it. That kind of worked in my favor I think. Gave this book a fresh feel.
A young boy is sent to the country where he hears about a monster and decides to hunt it. His quest is set aside when he meets the strange Rose Red. A girl in the middle of nowhere, with a goat for company, AND she's always veiled.
The two hit it off in a very cute, best friends sort of way. The book covers from the time as a child until several years later as adults.
The character development of Rose Red and Leo was absolutely amazing. I loved Leo's open heart towards someone who would be considered beneath him and strange. And I adored Rose Red's spirit and strong moral character.
There's also an amazing lesson about not judging people based on their appearance.
A young boy is sent to the country where he hears about a monster and decides to hunt it. His quest is set aside when he meets the strange Rose Red. A girl in the middle of nowhere, with a goat for company, AND she's always veiled.
The two hit it off in a very cute, best friends sort of way. The book covers from the time as a child until several years later as adults.
The character development of Rose Red and Leo was absolutely amazing. I loved Leo's open heart towards someone who would be considered beneath him and strange. And I adored Rose Red's spirit and strong moral character.
There's also an amazing lesson about not judging people based on their appearance.
February 17, 2017
This book was an impossibly epic ride of feels. I CRIED SO MANY TIMES. Everything was just so, so good and ack it was way deserving of five stars at least.
Can I just have a moment for the characters? Rose Red, Leo, Beana - every single character was so good and so real. I felt every emotion (which led to me sobbing beside a pile of tissues more than once) and I was completely in the story.
Leo broke my heart. At least five times. (don't ask, just read the book)
Everything was brilliant basically. The plot never slacked and there were twists all over the place. I am honestly in love with everything about this book. The magic is so super cool and the beautiful message is ahmazing.
OKAY BUT GO READ THE BOOK NOW. I cannot recommend it enough. But be prepared because feeeels.
Can I just have a moment for the characters? Rose Red, Leo, Beana - every single character was so good and so real. I felt every emotion (which led to me sobbing beside a pile of tissues more than once) and I was completely in the story.
Leo broke my heart. At least five times. (don't ask, just read the book)
Everything was brilliant basically. The plot never slacked and there were twists all over the place. I am honestly in love with everything about this book. The magic is so super cool and the beautiful message is ahmazing.
OKAY BUT GO READ THE BOOK NOW. I cannot recommend it enough. But be prepared because feeeels.
October 12, 2011
Ah, escaping to a different land, a different time and a different everything- isn’t that a major reason to read a book? In the words of C.S Lewis “Some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again”. Well I guess I am there with Anne Elisabeth Stengl’s newest book in her Tales of Goldstone Wood series Veiled Rose. (Or rather in my case, I don’t think I ever stopped reading them). If you are a fantasy fan that loves to read of princes and princesses, dragons and the netherworld then this book is for you.
Our 2 main characters are both intriguing and complex with regards to what they are looking for in this life. Our heroine Rose red has a secret that is hidden behind her special veils- all designed to hide who she really is. She has lived a lonely existence in the forest and hills above Hill House- a mansion housing young Leo who is visiting his relatives for the summer. And Leo is our little boy longing for adventure and looking to defeat the Monster of the hills. He finds adventure all right, but more prominently he finds a fast and true friendship with Rose Red that grows in importance as they do in age throughout the book. As young Leo is the crowned prince of the Southlands or ”Prince Lionheart” as he is known later in the novel, the pressures of his title irk him ,as all he would really like to be is a jester who entertains all those around them with juggling and a song (sung out of tune mind you, but never mind that). Unfortunately both Rose Red and Lionheart have to take separate journeys to try and save the kingdom from the wrath of the Dragon (enter villain), who is absolutely hell-bent on having Rose Red as his very own.
This story is full of adventure, excitement and quite allegorical. The struggles each character goes through in the end show what each is really made of, in how it manifests in their choices. I honestly did not guess Rose Red’s secret until it was revealed to me in the end and I love that when an author can pull that off, it’s pretty rare for me. I will not give that secret away in this review- read it for yourself and find out! The pull of evil in our lives is strong and this book illustrated it beautifully while also showing the great hope and love that the light offers. A great read and one I really recommend. I had not read Heartless before I read this book and did just fine, so now I will have to backtrack and read it.
4 stars.
I was graciously provided a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Our 2 main characters are both intriguing and complex with regards to what they are looking for in this life. Our heroine Rose red has a secret that is hidden behind her special veils- all designed to hide who she really is. She has lived a lonely existence in the forest and hills above Hill House- a mansion housing young Leo who is visiting his relatives for the summer. And Leo is our little boy longing for adventure and looking to defeat the Monster of the hills. He finds adventure all right, but more prominently he finds a fast and true friendship with Rose Red that grows in importance as they do in age throughout the book. As young Leo is the crowned prince of the Southlands or ”Prince Lionheart” as he is known later in the novel, the pressures of his title irk him ,as all he would really like to be is a jester who entertains all those around them with juggling and a song (sung out of tune mind you, but never mind that). Unfortunately both Rose Red and Lionheart have to take separate journeys to try and save the kingdom from the wrath of the Dragon (enter villain), who is absolutely hell-bent on having Rose Red as his very own.
This story is full of adventure, excitement and quite allegorical. The struggles each character goes through in the end show what each is really made of, in how it manifests in their choices. I honestly did not guess Rose Red’s secret until it was revealed to me in the end and I love that when an author can pull that off, it’s pretty rare for me. I will not give that secret away in this review- read it for yourself and find out! The pull of evil in our lives is strong and this book illustrated it beautifully while also showing the great hope and love that the light offers. A great read and one I really recommend. I had not read Heartless before I read this book and did just fine, so now I will have to backtrack and read it.
4 stars.
I was graciously provided a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
August 25, 2012
I am always a fan of fairy re-tellings, even if it is for a fairy tale I am not actually familiar with, as that of Rose Red. It took me awhile, but I also gathered that the book is a kind of Christian allegory, and parts remind me of Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan.
Rose Red is by far the most intriguing character, as her birth is shrouded in mystery, her friends are animals with voices, and she cloaks herself in veils and layers to hide even the smallest scrap of skin from any prying eyes - including her own. The shame she bears for her own appearance is so great that her very existence is surrounded by grand tales of monsters and demons told by all of the local villagers, yet she bears a strength much greater than she appears to possess and she has a kind of magic that allows her to walk the secret Paths and face down death in all its forms. Even at the end of the book, I could not fully grasp who or what she is.
Leo manages to find and befriend Rose Red in boyhood, but he has a burden of his own as Prince Lionheart of Southlands, destined to become King. Leo knows his responsibilities, but he secretly just wants a friend and to make people laugh as a court jester. These polar opposites manage to pull him across the world again and again as he struggles with the simple question, "What do you want?"
Many other characters litter the pages of the book, which was at times confusing as I attempted to deduce which creature or character was on the side of good or evil, such as the Dragon - which became apparent at its occupation of Southlands. As an allegory for Christianity, some characters were clear - such as the Prince, but others were murkier, such as the Lady.
The structure of the book itself was off-putting for me. The book is divided into five parts, with chapters in each part, but in between each part a vague sense of time has passed, so that the reader cannot pick up where the last chapter left off. At each break, I would get the feeling that the plot was picking up, only to be let down that the climactic moments have been glossed over. I also really disliked the ending. Certain things are expected of classic fairy tales, and none of this was included in the ending of this book. Perhaps the author was aiming for something more "realistic" or to simply get the reader to continue the series, but loose endings this big make me feel like I wasted my time reading the book, only to get no satisfaction at the finale.
Rose Red is by far the most intriguing character, as her birth is shrouded in mystery, her friends are animals with voices, and she cloaks herself in veils and layers to hide even the smallest scrap of skin from any prying eyes - including her own. The shame she bears for her own appearance is so great that her very existence is surrounded by grand tales of monsters and demons told by all of the local villagers, yet she bears a strength much greater than she appears to possess and she has a kind of magic that allows her to walk the secret Paths and face down death in all its forms. Even at the end of the book, I could not fully grasp who or what she is.
Leo manages to find and befriend Rose Red in boyhood, but he has a burden of his own as Prince Lionheart of Southlands, destined to become King. Leo knows his responsibilities, but he secretly just wants a friend and to make people laugh as a court jester. These polar opposites manage to pull him across the world again and again as he struggles with the simple question, "What do you want?"
Many other characters litter the pages of the book, which was at times confusing as I attempted to deduce which creature or character was on the side of good or evil, such as the Dragon - which became apparent at its occupation of Southlands. As an allegory for Christianity, some characters were clear - such as the Prince, but others were murkier, such as the Lady.
The structure of the book itself was off-putting for me. The book is divided into five parts, with chapters in each part, but in between each part a vague sense of time has passed, so that the reader cannot pick up where the last chapter left off. At each break, I would get the feeling that the plot was picking up, only to be let down that the climactic moments have been glossed over. I also really disliked the ending. Certain things are expected of classic fairy tales, and none of this was included in the ending of this book. Perhaps the author was aiming for something more "realistic" or to simply get the reader to continue the series, but loose endings this big make me feel like I wasted my time reading the book, only to get no satisfaction at the finale.
September 8, 2011
Okay, I'll admit it. I didn't like Prince Lionheart when I read Heartless, the first book in this series. I thought he was selfish and a coward. I only knew that he lied about who he was and felt that he used Princess Una in a horrible way. I grew to think of him just as Leo in this book and I loved him. I guess that shows you how important knowing a person's back story can be. lol I think I liked this book overall even better than the first. Maybe it's the series effect (growing to love the characters and setting more over each book) but I was glued to the pages of this book.
I think a lot of it had to do with Rose Red. I loved her character and the author did a masterful job of keeping up the suspense of who and what she really was. Rose herself didn't know - and this aura of mystery and very real danger made you want to keep flipping pages until you knew what was going to happen to her.
I also was impressed with the ... complexity of the relationships explored. It isn't as simple as boy meets girl, boy chases girl, boy loses girl, boy wins girl again, and then boy and girl live happily every after. This was filled with lots of intertwined and complicated relationships that (although this is a fantasy novel) mirrored the way real people might interact with one another. Nothing is as simple as all black or all white.
This story still has some allegorical or symbolic elements, but it isn't as pronounced as in the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would suggest it to anyone who likes to read this genre. I want to thank Bethany House for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I think a lot of it had to do with Rose Red. I loved her character and the author did a masterful job of keeping up the suspense of who and what she really was. Rose herself didn't know - and this aura of mystery and very real danger made you want to keep flipping pages until you knew what was going to happen to her.
I also was impressed with the ... complexity of the relationships explored. It isn't as simple as boy meets girl, boy chases girl, boy loses girl, boy wins girl again, and then boy and girl live happily every after. This was filled with lots of intertwined and complicated relationships that (although this is a fantasy novel) mirrored the way real people might interact with one another. Nothing is as simple as all black or all white.
This story still has some allegorical or symbolic elements, but it isn't as pronounced as in the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would suggest it to anyone who likes to read this genre. I want to thank Bethany House for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
September 3, 2016
Wow, Elizabeth, this is typologically deep! Some of the fantastical pictures she draws are absolutely exquisite. I think she is especially worth reading for Christian young people who are dealing with issues of the heart.
She demonstrates, using her fantasy in a way that is very winsome, how well-meaning young people can be derailed by Satan's wiles.
If you want to follow my thought further, you should read the book! And you should also read the 1st book, "Heartless" before you read this book.
She demonstrates, using her fantasy in a way that is very winsome, how well-meaning young people can be derailed by Satan's wiles.
If you want to follow my thought further, you should read the book! And you should also read the 1st book, "Heartless" before you read this book.
February 9, 2013
The most delightful fantasy I've read in a while, every bit as good as its predecessor. It balances the ethereal, magical elements - the dreams, the Netherworld, the Paths - with the real world - Hill House, the mountain woods, the streets of the Eastern empires - perfectly. I never felt lose as I have with some similar books. I also love the way the themes are unclear until near the end. I wasn't sure what to expect when the climax got over and what I had thought was the main plot didn't really resolve in a satisfying way, but it appears that the sequel may take care of that. My only regret was that I didn't read this book sooner after reading the first one, because there is a part where the main character meets the main character of the first book. I remember the meeting, but not enough about it to be satisfied.
I'm not sure what I think about the five-year span within the middle part of the book. I didn't feel disconnected from the characters during that time after all - which is unusual since Leo was traveling all over God's great green earth at that point - but it didn't feel quite right. Also I had a little bit of doubt about the climax. I loved the way Rose Red finally chose to trust and that she couldn't do it on her own, but then everything just seemed to go back to the way it had before. Again, I'm hoping the sequel will fix that.
I'm not sure what I think about the five-year span within the middle part of the book. I didn't feel disconnected from the characters during that time after all - which is unusual since Leo was traveling all over God's great green earth at that point - but it didn't feel quite right. Also I had a little bit of doubt about the climax. I loved the way Rose Red finally chose to trust and that she couldn't do it on her own, but then everything just seemed to go back to the way it had before. Again, I'm hoping the sequel will fix that.
July 17, 2015
An amazing story that includes all of my favorite elements:
Suspense, intrigue, hope, danger, and...dragons! :D
This is the story of Rose Red, a girl who has always lived in the mountains, veiled.
A little boy named Leo meets her, and instead of running away screaming, "Demon!" like everyone else, he invites her on a monster hunt.
From there, a friendship is started. Through trials of fire, darkness, and the heart, it is secured.
While the story highlight Rose Red's journey, it also gives more insight on "Leo's" life and struggle.
A must-read if you wish to delve deeper into the waters of Goldstone Wood!
Suspense, intrigue, hope, danger, and...dragons! :D
This is the story of Rose Red, a girl who has always lived in the mountains, veiled.
A little boy named Leo meets her, and instead of running away screaming, "Demon!" like everyone else, he invites her on a monster hunt.
From there, a friendship is started. Through trials of fire, darkness, and the heart, it is secured.
While the story highlight Rose Red's journey, it also gives more insight on "Leo's" life and struggle.
A must-read if you wish to delve deeper into the waters of Goldstone Wood!
March 4, 2017
Wow! This book is so awesome! The story is just amazing! Rose Red and Leo are the main characters. They both have a battle to fight the question is who will come out victorious. I can't write good reviews so this review probably sounds dumb but whatever it was so so so good. Thank you for writing these books Anne Elisabeth, I am looking forward to the next ones.
December 28, 2019
Reread this with my husband (after eight years or so), and I enjoyed seeing the setup for book three, which, as I recall, entertwined plot elements from the first two novels beautifully.
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