A River of Golden Bone is the first book in The Golden Court series by A. K. Mulford. It's a Sleeping Beauty retelling set in a world that Werewolves are in charge. I was hooked from the start. This book was one of the best fantasy novels with a spicy romance that I read this year.
Calla's journey for saving Briar and Golden Throne was full of excitements. And that self-discovery part was one of the best parts in this book.

I unfortunately had to DNF this one, it felt very YA but forced to New Adult. The FMC just felt a bit too immature for me. The world building didn't really hit for me the way i had hoped. I do feel others would enjoy this story.

DNF about a third of the way through. The book wasn’t able to hold my attention and seemed to drag through the opening.

I was incredibly surprised when the FMC mentioned that she was about to turn 20, because the entire book (up to and far, far beyond when it's mentioned in chapter 1 that she's about to turn 20) was written with a MUCH more juvenile style--I would have pegged it as lower YA, definitely not the New Adult that it's marketed as. Overwritten, cringey prose, an almost entirely unlikeable "chosen one" FMC, lackluster romance, and essentially zero worldbuilding--together, the execution just didn't come together. Not even the Sleeping Beauty retelling angle could save this one, which is disappointing because it had such an interesting premise and plotline.

Unfortunately, this did not live up to Mulford's other books that I'd read and enjoyed, and by a wide margin. There was no reason for me to keep reading until the end except for that I'd promised to give an honest review. I definitely won't be picking up the sequel(s).

***Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book to review.***

AK Mulford has become one of my go to authors for Fantasy books. A River of Golden Bones is a great start to a new Fantasy series

This was so enjoyable to read and hooks you from the first chapter. An adventure that is as pretty as the cover. This did not disappoint!

This book had a super interesting concept and I loved it. I am sucker for werewolf based stories and this one was different and exciting.

I felt the journey our character makes is super fun and the people she meets along the way really open her eyes to the world. I like how she also navigates her own relationship because it is anything but perfect.

Overall it was interesting and if you are looking for an lgbtqia friendly version of sleeping beauty this story has that and I liked the twist.

A thrilling wolf-shifter romantasy infused with fated mates and a touch of Sleeping Beauty!

As a lover of fated mates, wolf shifters, and fairytale retellings, this book had me hooked from the start. It not only reimagines a classic tale but also challenges social norms with its inclusivity and fresh perspectives.

The story begins with the downfall of the golden wolf pack, decimated by an evil sorceress who seizes the throne and curses the FMC's mother. But before succumbing to the curse, the queen delivers twin daughters—the rightful heirs to the throne. Taken under the protection of a fairy godmother figure, the sisters grow up in hiding, preparing to reclaim their homeland and restore the golden throne.

This imaginative retelling elevates the classic fairytale with warring kingdoms, morally complex villains, and a richly woven narrative. The ending strikes the perfect balance, providing satisfaction while leaving room for more to come—without the dreaded cliffhanger! It’s a captivating read for romantasy fans.

This book is a captivating and immersive read that hooks you from the first page. The writing is beautifully crafted, with vivid descriptions and strong character development that makes the story come alive. The plot is well-paced, balancing moments of tension with quieter, reflective scenes that allow the characters to grow. The themes explored are deep and thought-provoking, resonating long after the final page. Whether it's the emotional depth, the twists and turns of the plot, or the unforgettable characters, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys rich, engaging stories. Highly recommended

The plot was develope greatly. Love the world building and the characters. The detail in each description was super cool. I honestly can't wait to read more books by this author.

Such an amazing and creative story and the fantasy was absolutely dynamic and fascinating! A.K. Mulford is a favorite author and definitely did not miss with this one!

This was the first book I've read by A.K. Mulford and it didn't disappoint! The story was great and absolutely love the cover!

A River of Golden Bones by A.K. Mulford is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance and LGBTQ+ fiction. It’s a story of self-discovery, fated love, and empowerment, following a strong, complex protagonist as she uncovers her true identity and finds her place in a magical world full of wonder. Perfect for anyone who loves a blend of romance and adventure!

I was very excited for this one. I mean a fairy tale retelling, werewolves, fantasy, a quest, it had everything I could want from a book. Except I felt like for a fantasy the worldbuilding was almost nonexistent. The main character was unlikeable, and the supporting characters didn't really redeem things either. Overall, the plot was enjoyable, but everything else missed for me.
I can see why this book would appeal to many readers, and I am sure there are lots out there that will 5 star this one.


Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the eARC of this work in exchange for my honest review.

I have loved AK Mulford’s past books, but this latest novel just did not capture my interest or imagination. Nothing wrong with the book, it just wasn’t for me.

Why did I know that this fantasy book was going to be too messy yet too juicy to read? Why you ask? Basically, the secret twin sister loves her childhood friend, who is also her twin sister betrothed. And there is a sleeping curse. Messy!

I won't say too much because it will spoil the story. I will say that you should expect the unexpected. There are so many secrets that get unraveled throughout the book. It's very messy to read, but it is also entertaining to read. And don't get me started on the endless love triangle. It's so messy that I don't know who I should support. Literally, I just don't know. I do know that this story is keeping me entertained and slightly annoyed at times.

Despite a promising premise, this book doesn't deliver. The world-building isn't well developed. I will say though, I've never seen another novel take on a Sleeping Beauty premise with a mix of werewolves. The characters act childish for their age. At least there's some representation within the book and it has a pretty cover. I won't be picking up the second book though.

I loved reading other books by A.K. Mulford and this was the same way. Everytime I had to put it down I didn't want to and I counted time until I could pick it up again.

I really love the bright colors on this cover. I don't read many wolf shifter romances, but I enjoyed this one and I look forward to more books in this series!

I always enjoy the world building by A.K. Mulford and A River of Golden Bones did not disappoint. Twins who lost their parents at birth find themselves going to a new kingdom for a wedding on their 20th birthday but nothing goes as planned. Fated mates, romance, action, and beautiful self- discovery fill this story from beginning to end.