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Member Reviews

Y'all...this series has my heart forever. I can't believe it's over! I will go to the ends of the earth to read a retelling but I don't know if I'll ever be able to look at Sleeping Beauty the same way again. The worldbuilding in this series is absolutely incredible and the way she tells Briar's story is like nothing you've ever read before. The addition of the lore of the Queen Tomb really elevated this one to the next level, and I truly had no idea where this ending was headed. After all of the secrets and betrayals from book 2, i thought this was a very satisfying conclusion and wrapped everything up perfectly. Shane continues to remain my favorite bad ass, and i encourage anyone who loves fairytale fantasies to read this trilogy.

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I was so excited for this and it didn't disappoint! I loved the story, the world building and meeting the different characters. I felt completely immersed in the story and couldn't stop reading it.

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In "The Cursed Rose" by Leslie Vedder, readers are taken on a gripping and emotional journey as the remnants of a once formidable group battle against the wicked Spindle Witch and her ever-tightening web of darkness. Filled with twists, alliances, and the exploration of both past and present, this series conclusion captivates with its taut storytelling and heartfelt moments.

The story picks up with Fi, a prisoner confined in a tower alongside the monstrous Briar Rose, under the control of the Spindle Witch. As the witch inches closer to finding the Siphoning Spells and destroying Andar, Fi must decipher the ancient riddle of the Rose Witches to save Briar from the clutches of darkness.

Meanwhile, Shane, driven by her determination to save Andar and her partner, embarks on a quest to find a weapon left by the enigmatic Lord of the Butterflies—a weapon that holds the key to the Spindle Witch's downfall. Red's betrayal puts her in danger, as a new enemy emerges in the form of the Spindle Witch's executioner, the powerful and cruel Wraith.

The fate of Andar rests on the secrets of its past, leading Fi and Shane to face their greatest challenge yet—the Tomb of Queen Aurora. In their quest, they encounter vicious bone monsters, forge new alliances, and encounter surprises at every turn, pushing them to the brink.

Leslie Vedder delivers a thrilling and action-packed conclusion to the series. The pacing is tight, with each chapter propelling the story forward and keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The author skillfully builds tension and suspense, making it difficult to put the book down.

The characters continue to evolve and face their own internal struggles. Fi and Shane, in particular, undergo significant growth as they confront their fears, make difficult choices, and learn the importance of trust and friendship. Vedder adeptly balances the action with heartfelt moments, creating a strong emotional connection between readers and the characters.

The world-building remains immersive and vivid, with detailed descriptions that bring the settings and creatures to life. The introduction of new alliances and surprises keeps the story fresh, adding layers of complexity and intrigue to the narrative.

While "The Cursed Rose" is a satisfying conclusion to the series, some readers may find certain plot developments and resolutions to be predictable or familiar within the fantasy genre. However, the strength of the storytelling and the character dynamics overshadow any minor predictability, ensuring a satisfying and enjoyable reading experience overall.

In conclusion, "The Cursed Rose" delivers a thrilling and heartfelt conclusion to the series, filled with twists, alliances, and emotional depth. Leslie Vedder's skillful storytelling, intricate world-building, and well-drawn characters make this book a must-read for fans of fantasy adventures. Prepare to be swept away by the tension, surprises, and heartfelt moments that permeate this captivating series finale.

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