3.5 stars. This was a cute, fast YA read. I definitely picked up on the Tangled/Rapunzel vibes, even with it not being a fairy tale that I am super familiar with. I didn't know much about the story going in - so the modern take on Rapunzel with the cult backdrop was pretty creative and I found myself cheering for Flynn and Zella to get out of the situation that Zella was in. There were parts of the story that felt surface-level at times which I think just reinforced that this was a YA book, so there were some details that weren't as necessary.

The resolution of the story felt satisfying and I was glad that Zella was reunited with her family - even so many years later. I did struggle mid-way through the book with a very liberal use of the words "crazy" and "insane". It was enough to be noticeable in the storyline and generally I feel like there are different ways to communicate the details that the author was trying to get across.

Overall, an enjoyable read - thanks to NetGalley and the author/publisher for the eARC.

This story was not to my liking, but that's not to say it's bad. Really, the main problem I had with it was the pacing. It didn't hold my attention and it didn't establish a connection between me and the characters enough to make me care about these two struggling teens who find each other. I think it's an interesting take on the Rapunzel fairytale, but it just wasn't for me.

A unique spin on the Rapunzel story, although it was the Tangled version. The writing is conversational, easy-to-read, and the two narrators have distinct enough voices to be engaging throughout.

When I saw this cover, I knew this book would remind me of Tangled. And boy it did. This was such a weird read and that weird worked for me.

I ended up loving this sweet story more than I thought I would. While it wouldn't be one that I would reread I am glad I read it.

I really enjoyed this book. I particularly liked the tie ins to Tangled/Rapunzel.

The writing was age appropriate and both Zella and Ryder were incredibly likeable.

I would’ve liked more on their backstory and more on the cult itself but neither took away from the storyline.

Thank you soo much Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the advanced review copy if this book💗

I enjoyed this book precisely because it was just so weird. I expected a little weird when I read the blurb, but it was even more out there than I anticipated. It was interesting to see a cult basically treated as a plot driver in a teen romance, but it somehow worked even though the book never got very serious about the cult. I wasn't sure where things were going, and that kept me reading. The characters weren't super developed, but there was enough there that it was an enjoyable read.

The author's writing is a delight, evoking the coastal setting with vivid descriptions that transport readers to the rugged beauty of the landscape. Plumb's ability to capture the essence of small-town life, with its quirks and charms, adds a delightful layer to the narrative. The coastal town becomes not just a backdrop but a character in its own right, integral to the story's heartbeat. the book excels in its portrayal of complex, authentic characters. The relationships are nuanced, and the dynamics between the characters are explored with a keen understanding of human nature. Each lightkeeper, with their unique struggles and triumphs, contributes to a tapestry of interconnected lives that is as intricate as it is relatable.

I am a huge fan of fairytale retelling and Rapunzel is one of my favorite princesses. I enjoyed this book so much!

I really liked the way it is written and that it is a Rapunzel retelling. Despite being a YA book, it deals with tougher topics that you usually don't expect in a book like this. I found that quite interesting, it also has several plot twists that I didn't expect at all!

Ryder and Zella are so cute, I would love to know more about them (as a couple and also with their respective families). I hope the author is encouraged to write a little more about their stories because I definitely would read it!

I loved that this story had SO MANY ties to the Rapunzel/Tangled story. I thought it was so so cute and well written. I loved Zella and thought her relationship with Ryder was age/developmentally appropriate. I did think the ending/conflict left me a little confused and felt unresolved but overall, I loved it.

Abso-freaking-lutely gorgeous 😍


Thank you soo much netgalley, the author and the publisher for the advanced review copy if this book💗

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this book.

This book holds such a special spot in my heart. Tangled being one of my all time favorite movies and I will reread this book forever.

I could not get into this book and the writing style. The characters did not seem well developed. This was just not my cup of tea

I really enjoyed the concept of this book, bringing the story of Rapunzel into a modern day setting and with real issues. Really good for a YA book, very relatable and easy to read. A very nice story.

This was a very interesting modern retelling of Rapunzel where Flynn Ryder is in the foster care system and Rapunzel herself is trapped in a dangerous cult. After being alone as a "Child of the Lighthouse," Rapunzel (Zella) dreams of freedom and who can blame her? But this didn't sit right with me after reading several cult thrillers myself. Aside from that though--this is a fairy tale. Ryder has been through many foster families and doesn't trust the fancy house and school he is paired with. When Ryder goes to a beach party his first week at his new school, he finds himself on the run from the cops when a storm hits. This leads him to a light house and none other than Zella. The two hit off insta-love vibes and the rest is a whirlwind of teen choices and of course, a HEA.

Grips like a vice and twists like a rollercoaster. Impossibly clever. Impossible to put down!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I could not get into this book and the writing style. The characters did not seem well developed. This was just not my cup of tea.

5/5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers, and Kennedy Plumb.

I absolutely loved this book. It is a fantastic modern retelling of Rapunzel where she is stuck in a cult and Flynn is a foster child. This book will make you laugh, cry, angry, and uncontrollably happy. I can not rave about this book enough.

The characters are lovable and well written. There are also characters you will love to hate. You will learn everything along with the characters and go through all of the emotions right with them.

There is dual POV with the main characters Zella and Flynn. You will be sucked right into the story and experience everything along with them.

I had a hard time putting this book down once I had picked it up. And I hope Kennedy Plumb writes more in the future because I can’t wait to read more of what she has to offer.

I recommend this book to anyone who loves modern retellings, or retellings of any kind. Actually I just recommend this book to everyone, it is so good.

This story is a rapunzel meets dystopian cult and I am living for it.

I would highly recommend for fans of disney/fairytale retellings but it is very much YA. You will get frustrated with some of the choices and decisions of the characters, but overall I was pleasantly suprised with how much I truly enjoyed this fresh take on the classic story.

Thank you to netgalle and the publisher for providing this ARC for review. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.