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3.0 

Thornwood

By Leah Cypess
Thornwood by Leah Cypess digital book - Fable

Publisher Description

The first book in the Sisters Ever After series! Sleeping Beauty's younger sister has always lived in her shadow—until now. Perfect for anyone who loves fairy tale retellings about sisters and princesses!

For years, Briony has lived in the shadow of her beautiful older sister, Rosalin, and the curse that has haunted her from birth—that on the day of her sixteenth birthday she would prick her finger on a spindle and cause everyone in the castle to fall into a 100-year sleep. When the day the curse is set to fall over the kingdom finally arrives, nothing—not even Briony—can stop its evil magic.

You know the story.

But here's something you don't know. When Briony finally wakes up, it's up to her to find out what's really going on, and to save her family and friends from the murderous Thornwood. But who is going to listen to her? This is a story of sisterhood, of friendship, and of the ability of even little sisters to forge their own destiny.

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46 Reviews

3.0
Thumbs Up“I approached Thornwood with modest expectations, thinking it would be just another retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale. But to my delight, it turned out to be a refreshingly unique spin on the familiar story, with enough twists and depth to keep me hooked. Leah Cypess weaves a tale that isn’t just about magic and castles, but also about bravery, sibling bonds, and the complexities of heroism. The story unfolds through the eyes of Briony, the younger sister of Rosalin—the Sleeping Beauty herself. What stood out to me immediately was how Briony isn’t just a sidekick or a shadow of her sister. She’s feisty, relatable, and carries the weight of being “the forgotten sibling” with a mix of humor and determination. Through her perspective, the tale dives into the darker, thornier aftermath of the “happily ever after” that we think we know. Cypess’ writing is vivid and immersive, balancing suspense, wit, and heartfelt moments. The Sleeping Beauty curse is no longer just a romantic fairytale centerpiece; it’s a multi-layered conflict involving malevolent forces, family secrets, and unexpected betrayals. The world-building is rich without being overbearing, and the thorny, twisting woods that entrap the castle feel almost alive—menacing yet enchanting at the same time. What makes Thornwood special is the dynamic between Briony and Rosalin. Their sibling relationship is messy and realistic, filled with moments of jealousy, frustration, and love. It’s a reminder that even in a world of magic, the strongest bonds are human ones. And let’s talk about the pacing—it’s perfect for middle-grade readers and adults alike, keeping the story moving with surprises around every corner. Whether it’s the eerie Thornwood itself or the revelation of long-held secrets, there’s always something to keep you turning the pages. Overall, Thornwood is a clever, charming, and heartfelt retelling that breathes new life into a well-worn fairytale. Leah Cypess not only brings us into a magical world but also reminds us of the courage it takes to forge our own path—even when we’re not the “chosen one.” Perfect for fans of retold fairytales, strong heroines, and a dash of magic with a touch of darkness”

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