Bonded by Thorns was a whirlwind of a story that I was completely unprepared for. While the familiar pieces of Beauty and the Beast are right there for the plucking, the story becomes far more magical as Rosalina uncovers each shard of the curse like a piece of glass—beautiful, alluring, and full of cracks.
The four princes are imperfectly perfect creatures, each carrying deeply seated issues laid out by the Enchantress. I loved them all, and they are each so distinct: Dayton, the “pretty boy” of Summer; Ezryn, Spring’s masked prince; Keldarion of Winter; and Farren of Autumn. Each kingdom has its own unique problems, but every prince is deeply flawed and loving in his own way.
The enchanted castle itself is incredible. Parts of this read reminded me of Bride of Brutal Hearts—especially with the heavy betrayal and that massive cliffhanger ending. But there were so many softer parts I adored too, like Marigold and Astrid caring for her, and the fact that Rosalina finally felt like she was home and truly belonged. That ending absolutely stabbed me in the heart, and I am left with so many unanswered questions! On to the next one!