Who doesn't love a fairytale retelling! I think sleeping beauty is one of my favorites. While overall I enjoyed this read, it was a quick read. We have dragons, witches, fae, a good plot and a strong FMC. Lots of banter between MMC and FMC in this one. World building throughout gives you a chance to step into the courts and their world. The points I didn't like were at times the writing felt choppy, unfinished...and there is a spicy scene that just doesn't sit well with the book.

So if you like enemies to lovers, fake relationships, unique magic system, secrets, and more-- check it out!

➳ 2.75 stars

Special thanks to netgalley, publishers, and R.L. Perez for providing me with an eARC. As always, all thoughts are my own and are in no way influenced by early access to this title.

Growing up Sleeping Beauty was one of my favorite Disney fairytales so going into this I was very excited. To say I was disappointed would unfortunately be an understatement 😔.

To start off this book didn’t have the initial intrigue that the original fairytale had. While the vibes intrigued me a bit it just had a bit of a messy feel to it. The world building was one of the things that this book lacked. Plus there wasn’t much background and character development to go off of the world building.

Then the writing was both repetitive and cringey. Some of it I was going to look past but it just kept on happening. And for a book that’s five hundred pages it just stuck out.

I did enjoy some of our main couples banter and romance but I just wasn’t obsessed. I also wasn’t crazy about the plot. At the beginning I was intrigued but it eventually fell flat. Overall I was pretty bored and just didn’t connect much with the characters and the story sadly.

Princess Aurelia is the crown princess of the summer court. Her fae kingdom is special within all other courts as they are the only ones with dragons. Her connection and love for these is so strong that she is fighting for their rights to live in peace, not be imprisoned and used by the other courts.
One day when she is coming back from a ride she is meeting a handsome unknown fae male in her woods and really enjoys the encounter. When she returns in her castle her whole world is shuttered. A sleeping spell has befallen the whole castle as well as their army. The unknown guys shows up Aurelia first thinks he might be responsible for all of this but then it turns out he is Prince Fenn and wanted to strike a bargain with her as his country need urgently dragon fire to keep his people save from the onslaught of unseemly beast which hunt and kill them. As he can offer start dust, the substance needed to break this curse, both agree to work together for the good of their countries.
During their journey both learn more and more about each other and also start to see behind the masks they wear in front of others but both have secrets which could destroy their starting trust in each other.

Wow, I really enjoyed this book!
The writing is fluid and right from the start I was directly in the story. What really impressed me is how the author used the well know story of Sleeping Beauty and turned it into a stunning new version of it. I mean using fae, magic and dragons in it I never thought it would work out and I am totally impressed how much I like it. Using the sleeping spell on the court and having the princess being the only who has to break the spell is a really good idea. Also that she is a strong character and has help here in form a her favourite dragon and the crown prince is well done. I don´t want to spoiler here but that also the spinning wheel shows up here was for me brilliantly worked into the story.
Aurelia and her love for her dragons is very well written. Also her affection for her family and that she is willing to fight for her country. We learn about her dark secrets which makes her in my eyes even more special.
Fenn is for me the perfect counterpart here. He is good looking, likes to have fun and enjoys the company of willing females to entertain him. This is the mask he shows the world. To see what is underneath this mask, his believes, for what he is fighting and risking all was well written.
Also for me the chemistry between these two is believable and I really like the erotic encounter we read here.
I really like that both of them have their own strength, different weaknesses but both discover so much in this not only about themselves but also about secrets about them, what is really important for them and for what they are willing to risk all.

So who likes story re telling, who likes fantasy and who likes strong female characters should check this out.

I’m obsessed with any time of retelling books so as soon as I started reading i was immediately hooked. I like how the book was fast paced but nothing was confusing and I was still able to understand the world building and everything else that was going on. I’m a sucker for dual povs as well, it really gives us a glimpse of how both Fenn and Aurelia think.
The plot twist at the end really threw me for a loop. This book was very entertaining and fun to read. I will definitely be adding this to my reread list

This book was something, I enjoyed the twisted on the sleeping beauty retelling and the inclusion of dragons. This story was well written, and the banter was great. The pull and supply was chefs kiss. Aurelia spent most her life trying to live up to being something someone her parents wanted to be only for them to be put under a sleeping spell! Conveniently this happens when a prince from a enemy kingdom is visiting her to ask for help because his own kingdom is in danger. This story is a little bit side questy but not overly so so I found it enjoyable instead of irritating.

This book was a great time!
I always love a good retelling and this being sleeping beauty did not disappoint

The novel is part of the Night Queen series, and while it builds on prior installments, it stands strong as its own unique narrative.

The book centers around a complex and multifaceted protagonist, who is caught between her desires, her duty, and a looming threat that promises to unravel her world. The tension throughout the story is palpable, as Perez masterfully intertwines themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and identity. The story’s dream-based magic system is another highlight, lending the novel a surreal, almost ethereal quality that adds layers of complexity to both the world and its characters.

Perez’s writing is fluid and immersive, with descriptive language that paints rich, sensory-filled scenes. The pacing is well-balanced, seamlessly alternating between fast-paced action and quieter, introspective moments. The characters are diverse and relatable, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and motivations, adding depth to the overall narrative.

Perhaps one of the novel’s strongest suits is its exploration of power dynamics, both external and internal. The protagonist’s journey of self-discovery is rife with challenges, and the emotional stakes feel real and grounded, despite the fantastical setting. Fans of strong female leads will find much to admire in the heroine’s arc, which is empowering without being overly idealized.

While Crown of Slumber does follow some familiar fantasy tropes—such as the chosen one narrative and royal intrigue—Perez’s unique world-building and character development keep it from feeling predictable. There are plenty of twists, turns, and emotional beats that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next book.

In *Crown of Slumber*, the enchanting yet treacherous world of fae magic comes to life in a captivating retelling of the Sleeping Beauty tale. Princess Aurelia finds herself at the heart of a deadly curse that has engulfed her family, and her only chance for salvation rests with the wicked Prince Fenn, whose kingdom holds the key to breaking the spell: stardust.

From the very beginning, the stakes are high, and the tension is palpable. Aurelia's determination to save her loved ones is admirable, but it’s her reluctant alliance with Prince Fenn that drives the narrative forward. The dynamic between these two characters is electric; what starts as a transactional relationship evolves into a complicated web of emotions, secrets, and unexpected revelations.

The author expertly crafts a world filled with dark fae magic and court intrigues, immersing readers in a realm where deception and danger lurk around every corner. Fenn’s character is particularly compelling; beneath his charming exterior lies a depth that Aurelia begins to uncover. Their banter is witty and sharp, but it’s the moments of vulnerability that truly resonate, making their budding romance feel authentic and layered.

As Aurelia delves deeper into Fenn’s court, the secrets she discovers add a thrilling edge to the story. The tension builds as she grapples with her growing feelings for Fenn while questioning whether she can truly trust him. The stakes rise not only for her family but also for her very soul, leading to a gripping climax that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

*Crown of Slumber* masterfully balances romance and suspense, weaving in elements of dark magic and political intrigue that elevate the traditional fairy tale into something fresh and engaging. It’s a tale of love, sacrifice, and the complexity of human emotions, all wrapped in a beautifully crafted fantasy setting.

For fans of fairy tale retellings and those who enjoy intricate plots with a touch of romance, this book is a must-read. *Crown of Slumber* is a spellbinding journey that leaves you longing for more, perfectly setting the stage for the next installment in the Crowns of the Fae series.

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

I was enamored
with this book.
Sleeping Beauty has always been one of my
favorites and this retelling did not disappoint!
Princess Aurelia and Prince Fenn's
story started
enemies from
opposing kingdoms.
Both dealing with difficulties that brought
them together in order to save their kingdoms.
Their witty banter and heated glances
are enough to keep you on your toes
as their romance slowely burns
to life
but once the spark is ignited their
in no quelling the flames that
ignite between them.
There are many twists
and turns
through the book to keep you on
the edge of you seat but oh are they
delectable.
Highly reccomend!

I was captivated by this retelling of Sleeping Beauty, it really drew me in and i finished it within a few hours.
I loved the characters and how they developed as themselves and with each other.
I loved how each chapter was their own points of view.
It was dramatic, magical, romantic, spicy, exciting and adventurous.
I loved the slow burn of their romance and the exchanges the main characters had between each other i was routing for them from the beginning.
I am looking forward to more from this author.

Book review 📚
Crown of Slumber by R.L Perez
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

Ok, so hear me out. A retelling of Sleeping Beauty but make it dark and spicy? You sold? Yeah, I thought so, now stop reading and go get it!
If not, well I guess you better keep reading so I can convince you a bit more.

Let me first talk about the creativity. My oh my, Perez went all in with the creativeness to the story and the writing. Even though this is supposed to be a retelling of what we know as a classic story, there are different added elements that just kept it fresh (not as boring too). So, you’ve got sleeping beauty, now throw in some Dragons, Fae and Witches – you already know how much better its destined to be.

There was no such thing as “boredom” through this book, I was kept on the edge of my seat nearly the whole way through. 1 problem would be solved then another would occur. The anticipation of it all made me want to pull my hair out, because there was no guessing what would happen next!

I also LOVED the slow burn aspect of it, one of my favourite tropes. But the character descriptions were absolutely fantastic and it was so easy to set the imagery in your mind. Not only that, but the world building!! I would give my left leg to just have a glimpse at the worlds the author was describing, to see the realism of exactly what Perez had created. I was in awe of the whole descriptions.

Right, if I haven’t convinced you by now then clearly you are not into fantasy, or even sleeping beauty. But if you are, then this is a must read!

This was lightly inspired by sleeping beauty in the fact that our FMC, Princess Aurelia, finds the palace and everyone in it under a sleeping spell. With the help of our MMC, Prince Fenn, she strikes a bargain to help his kingdom if he helps her whilst pretending to be betrothed.

I enjoyed the main story but felt the last 75% of the book was rushed and also lacked character development for our two MC's.
The enemies to lovers troupe was sprinkled at the beginning, but that changed quickly into he falls first regardless of how Aurelia treats him. Their romance felt underwhelming, which made me sad as I did enjoy Fenn and how he was written. Whilst I did appreciate how Aurelia's past trauma was brought into the story and provided some great tension and conflict between Aurelia, Fenn, and other Kingdoms.

I LOVED the Dragons and how they were connected to the story. Mal and Jorey can come protect me any day! Also enjoyed reading about the witches and how the clans are all different across the kingdoms. I wanted more.

Overall, it was a quick and fast-paced read that I largely enjoyed, but also left me feeling a little underwhelmed.

I want to start by thanking NetGalley and Willow Haven Press for providing me with an ARC of "Crown of Slumber" by R.L. Perez. This Sleeping Beauty retelling is a captivating and imaginative twist on the classic fairy tale. Perez weaves a rich tapestry of fantasy and intrigue, bringing new depth to familiar characters and settings. The plot is well-paced, and the character development is impressive, making it a delightful read from beginning to end. Overall, I give it four stars for its creativity and engaging narrative.

There were a lot of things about Crown of Slumber that I really liked. The dragons, the plot, the fact that the Fmc was strong and capable of destruction.
A couple things I didn’t love, the writing at times felt a little juvenile for my taste, and that one scene that didn’t feel like a good time to be getting down with it… I recommend if you are looking for a fantasy romance but not looking for something overly complex.

This book was really creative and I enjoyed it quite a bit ! Thank you for allowing me to read it!! I loved Fenn’s personality.

I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This was surprisingly good! I think there are so many fae books that they are hit or miss. This one was a fun read.

Thank you NetGalley for this read. This is a sleeping beauty retelling. I absolutely loved it. One of my tops reads so far this season.

Fae! Dragons! Spice! Enemies to lovers! Fake betrothal! This book really has it all.

Crown of Slumber is a Sleeping Beauty retelling, where Princess Aurelia finds herself having to begrudgingly align with Prince Fenn to save both her family and their kingdom. Things escalate quickly, and the pair fake an engagement with the hopes of accomplishing both of their goals.

At times, I found the enemies to lovers element to feel a bit out of place, with both characters’ actions kind of blown out of proportion to make the trope happen. This was especially true for Aurelia. I liked their back and forth, and the chemistry was clear to me as a reader. Fenn was a charming MMC and I found myself enjoying the chapters from his POV a bit more. Mal the dragon was also a highlight.

Even though it was a retelling of a classic story, there was enough characterization and added fantasy elements to keep it fresh. I found the middle section of their quest to drag on a bit, but the pace picked up a lot at in the last quarter of the book. I wish we had spent more time there, digging into the secondary characters and important plot points instead of fighting ogres.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you NetGalley and Willow Haven Press for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

A sleeping beauty retelling with Witches and Dragons and Fae! Oh my! After a couple chapters in, I was hooked. I love the relationship Aurelia has with her dragons and I love the banter between her and the Midnight Prince, Fenn.

The fae in the realm come into their power, but not Aurelia, the Summer princess, keeper of the dragons. The Court of Midnight is losing their stardust which helps to keep the unseelie away and their only hope is dragonfire. But only the summer court has them. The prince is tasked to strike a deal with the Summer Court. Things happen to go perfectly for Fenn, because a sleeping curse takes over the whole summer court. Only Aurelia is left. To awaken her court, she needs Stardust, so they make a deal...stardust for a dragon with the most powerful fire. All the while pretending to be engaged. They run into much trouble on their way back to the Court of Midnight and lots of mysteries began to plague them, but the dream mage that put the summer court to sleep is hunting for Aurelia. She needs to wake her kingdom up soon and try to answer a question that has been festering inside her. Why hasn't her power shown? And why did the King of the Autumn Court call her the most powerful fae?

After one problem was solved, another problem would show up, and then another. It kept you on the edge of your seat the whole time. It's slow burn, forced marriage, with playful banter since Fenn is a playboy. There are three spicy scenes in this book along with talk of sexual assault. The author addresses all triggers in the beginning which is always helpful and much appreciated.