I don't think I've read a Mother Gothel backstory book before. 
I really enjoyed this. 
Seeing part of her childhood. How she was treated. How the loss of her mother played a part in her future. 
The reason she took Rapunzel. The incorporation of magic throughout the book. 
I liked the side story of her being in love with a boy from her village but they cannot marry. Yet they get to grow old together in their own way. 
Haelewise had genuine friendship with a Princess named Rika. 

The book is filled with strong women who won't let men push them around. 

The writing in this is a little slow paced. Especially around the middle. I struggled a little. But the last 20% really picked up. I couldn't put it down towards the end.