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4.03 AVERAGE

fast-paced
Loveable characters: Yes

For a quick and enjoyable read, I'd say 4 stars. Don't mind the cover. The two main characters are likeable enough. I like how the fmc knows what she wants and isn't afraid to get it. In particular this line:

Hers to defend, or kill, as the desire took her.

I did have some issues with the logic in certain parts which kinda pulled me out of the story a bit, so if you shut off your brain it'll be fine.
In short, why did Ursula not turn Gosse into a rat immediately when she first saw him. What's the harm and he's clearly not a good person. Secondly, how did she learn the more advanced bear transforming spell in the end? Third, there was one weird part where she was very nonchalant about her brothers' death...

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

A delightful adult fairy tale dealing with loss, hidden secrets, love and finally getting what is deserved. Ursula and Bernard have one thing in common and that is that both their fathers rule their lives, but Ursula's family is brutally slaughtered and when the winter snows melt and spring returns Bernard finally gets to stand up to his father. This dark retelling of Goldilocks is a great read.

Merged review:

A delightful adult fairy tale dealing with loss, hidden secrets, love and finally getting what is deserved. Ursula and Bernard have one thing in common and that is that both their fathers rule their lives, but Ursula's family is brutally slaughtered and when the winter snows melt and spring returns Bernard finally gets to stand up to his father. This dark retelling of Goldilocks is a great read.
adventurous emotional

This retelling of "Goldilocks" was interesting and the characters were well written. The ending came together really well and I am glad it ended on a positive note after all that Ursula and Bernard went through. I also look forward to reading more about this world and the characters in it.

Series Character and Story Connections for Roar: Goldilocks Retold
Rosamond and Siward's Tale: Awaken (Book #06)

A delightful adult fairy tale dealing with loss, hidden secrets, love and finally getting what is deserved. Ursula and Bernard have one thing in common and that is that both their fathers rule their lives, but Ursula's family is brutally slaughtered and when the winter snows melt and spring returns Bernard finally gets to stand up to his father. This dark retelling of Goldilocks is a great read.

Merged review:

A delightful adult fairy tale dealing with loss, hidden secrets, love and finally getting what is deserved. Ursula and Bernard have one thing in common and that is that both their fathers rule their lives, but Ursula's family is brutally slaughtered and when the winter snows melt and spring returns Bernard finally gets to stand up to his father. This dark retelling of Goldilocks is a great read.
lighthearted
adventurous emotional fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

This retelling of Goldilocks is unique and dark. Like all of her heroines, Carlton creates an independent, fierce woman in Ursula. Bernard is a caring, sensitive man with a tragic past that still haunts him. Their relationship is well developed and the romance does not disappoint. The addition of the bears adds a magical dimension to the story, but you’ll have to read to find out the integral parts they play. As a caution, there are quite a few intimate love scenes and conversations throughout the novel.