Review of Of Thorns and Beauty: A Dark Fairy Tale Retelling
Twisted Pages Book 1 by Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle
From the moment I stumbled upon the title Of Thorns and Beauty: A Dark Fairy Tale Retelling, I felt a magnetic pull. I’ve always been captivated by reimaginings of classic tales, and the idea of a story where beauty and beast are intertwined within the same character promised a depth that many adaptations overlook. Luckily, Elle Madison and Robin D. Mahle delivered a deeply evocative narrative that didn’t just meet my expectations but soared past them.
At the heart of the story lies Zaina, a young woman grappling with the concealed horrors of her past and an arranged marriage to a Viking King. Instantly, I was drawn into her turmoil as she navigates a world where freedom is a distant dream and survival becomes her only goal. The authors masterfully craft Zaina’s character, melding strength with vulnerability, making her both relatable and profoundly compelling. The struggle of protecting her sisters adds layers to her already complex identity, portraying her as a fierce protector – a theme that resonated deeply with me as I considered the lengths we go to for our loved ones.
The writing style strikes a beautiful balance between lyrical and straightforward, making it both immersive and digestible. Each page is laced with vivid imagery that brings the settings to life, from the castle’s looming grandeur to the dark secrets that whisper through its halls. The pacing is well-maintained, keeping the tension high and ensuring that I was always eager to turn the page. This isn’t merely a story about a girl caught between worlds; it’s about the boundaries we push and the masks we wear, a theme that lingers long after the last page.
One particular quote stood out to me: “Sometimes, the monsters are not outside of us, but within. If only we could learn to tame our own beasts.” This statement encapsulated a core theme of the book: the duality of human nature. It reminded me that we are often our own toughest opponents, battling against our fears and insecurities. Zaina’s journey toward understanding herself amid the chaos is both urgent and intimately human, making her evolution all the more satisfying.
For readers who enjoy fairy tales with a dark twist, Of Thorns and Beauty is a must-read. It’s not just a retelling; it’s a reflection of the struggles we all face—love, sacrifice, and the quest for self-acceptance. The book doesn’t shy away from darker themes, making it suited for adult readers who appreciate stories that evoke emotion and prompt introspection.
As I closed the book, I was left on a cliffhanger that both exhilarated and frustrated me. Luckily, with all five titles already published, I’ll have the pleasure of diving back into Zaina’s world without delay. This storytelling duo has created an experience that is both hauntingly beautiful and impossibly addictive. If you’re yearning for a tale that interweaves love with a touch of darkness, grab a cozy spot and join me on Zaina’s journey. You won’t regret it!
You can find Of Thorns and Beauty: A Dark Fairy Tale Retelling (Twisted Pages Book 1) here >>