You all know the story of Rapunzel but what about Mother Gothel? This is her story and it’s much more different than you could ever expect. I always thought that it was a naturally very dark story. It doesn’t change here because there are times I had to step away and take a break. Things are dark and intense. I’m a mood reader and with everything in this world going mad, it made it hard. There are some similar themes to what is going on in real life. This is no way had to do with the writing but my mood. There are some heavy motherhood/birth and Christian vs. Pagan religion themes. A lot that felt so close to what’s going on now.

Anyways, I loved Haelewise as a character. She’s amazing and I felt for her. Throughout her journey, she just gets hit with so many trials. The way she handles them and sticks up for good is quite inspiring. We start her story when she’s a young girl and grow along with her. There is a lot of mystery about her and her mother’s past. We are learning with her along the way. There’s a lot more magic explored in this story, which I loved. Honestly, this was such an original retelling that it felt like it was its own thing.

The writing in this book is superb! From the very beginning, it grabbed me, and didn’t let go. McMyne is a brilliant writer and had a way with words. This is a book that you will not be able to forget. You get so immersed in the story and characters that you almost feel like it’s real! The details and descriptions are so vivid. If you love any folktales and/or fairytales I think this is the book for you. It’s so well done. The world-building is fascinating and unique too.

One of the things that felt off for me was Haelewise’s deep need to be a mother. She wants to be a mother so bad but I felt like it kind of came out of nowhere and we didn’t get a good explanation for that. Was it just a thing that happened? Why didn’t it happen before? Trying to fill a void? I’m not sure. It just didn’t make sense to me. I didn’t think her romance was the best either. It left me unsatisfied and I wasn’t that connected when things happen later.

Overall, this was a fabulous read! As I mentioned before, if you enjoy retellings of folklore and/or fairytales then I think you will love this. It’s got some beautiful prose and the story is so engaging and new. I highly recommend it! It is a darker story but I think it needed to be told. I loved Gothel’s story and I think you will too.