I adore Heather Walter's books and was so thrilled to get an early copy of The Crimson Crown! Fairytale retellings focusing on villains are always an easy sell for me. So I was completely in for a Snow White retelling focusing on the creation of the Evil Queen. Ayleth is a really great main character. She has strength but is also dealing with the devastating loss of her sister and a fairly abusive relationship with her mother. I found her relationship with Jacquetta so interesting and complex. The world felt so detailed and lived in. I also really enjoyed the magic system. That ending had me on the edge of my seat! I can't wait to get to the conclusion of this duology.

Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is a Snow-White story like you have never heard before. This story is loosely based on the fairy tale that we all know. The writing in the book is beautiful and Ayleth’s journey throughout this book is captivating, dark, and just hits all the right notes. I think this is a book that would resonate with readers who are teens, adults, or anyone who loves a fantastic fairy tale retelling. This book is fresh, enchanting, and I am hoping that there will be more to Ayleth’s story, or that we might get another villain’s story.
Thank you so much to Random House Publishing Group-Ballantine, Del Rey, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

4⭐️

The Crimson Crown, a loose retelling of Snow White, gives a gripping backstory to the witch, Ayleth, who would one day become the Evil Queen in Snow White’s fairytale. Heather Walter does a beautiful job of spinning beautiful imagery and intriguing world building, creating a well thought out world for Ayleth to interact with.

After the death of her sister, Ayleth is now her mother’s heir and intended Second. But during her Ascension when her powers still haven’t manifested, she reaches out for her sister beyond the veil and is marked by Malum. This adds just one more example of her proving to be a disappointment to her mother and earns her an extra layer of scrutiny from the other covens. Ayleth’s solution is simple- find the lost Bloodstones to bring back her sister and strengthen the veil that is beginning to crumble. Her sister can reclaim her position as Second and Ayleth is free from her sister’s shadow. But what will happen when her plans lead her to the White Palace and in court with the very king responsible for her sister’s death, and the witch who broke her heart?

While I found this book intriguing from the start, it was a little difficult to get into for reasons I don’t quite understand. I enjoyed Ayleth’s character, though at the beginning before leaving the Sanctum she did come across as a bit childish. I absolutely loved the imagery throughout the book which was descriptive and steeped in lore. This book is definitely more of a political intrigue kind of book, not a romantic one like I thought. The romantic relationship between Ayleth and Jacquetta was lacking. The slowburn did not have a satisfying payoff, and the twist at the end spurring Ayleth’s descent into villainhood did not have the shock value it needed because I just didn’t feel invested in their relationship. It felt as if the relationship was only there to serve as the final push into Ayleth’s newfound power.

Overall, I did enjoy this book. The last 30-40%, I could barely put the book down. I’d recommend if you love all things witchy and enjoy political intrigue with queer representation. Thank you to everyone at NetGalley and Random House for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I'm not sure what's up with me, but it's definitely me--this book is well written and I love the idea of the story! But I just didn't vibe with this when I picked it up. It's definitely a mood reader problem. Based on the story and a flip through, I would probably give this about 3.5-4 stars, so that's what I'm giving it for now. If I pick it back up, I'll update my review! I love a backstory and I'm absolutely a villain lover, so I expect I'll like it when it hits at the right time!

Thanks to Netgalley, Random House, and Heather Walter for the ARC.

I loved Malice, so when I heard that Heather Walter was releasing a villain origin story for the evil queen I was so excited!

Like Malice, this is a book where we support women’s rights, but we especially support women’s wrongs. Well, some women’s. Jacquetta knows what she did.

It took me a few tries to get into the story, but then I read the last 80% in a day, so it definitely hooked me. If you’re going into this expecting a Snow White retelling, you’re going to be disappointed—but if you like your retellings to be more loose inspirations, then this is definitely for you. Personally I would have preferred to have had a few more nods to the inspiration.

Nettle 100% stole the show (as is only right and proper for a cat). And Blodwyn was easily my favorite human character because who doesn’t love a terror of a princess?

4.25/5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for the ARC.

I love a good retelling, but one from a villian's P.O.V with a Sapphic twist? I had high hopes for this book and Heather Walter exceeded my expectations with this story!

While this story focuses on Ayleth, (Snow White's witch) it also has immersive world building which draws you into the story and helps to keep you there.

I really enjoyed Ayleth's character though I did occasionally find myself wanted to scream at her for some of the choices she made.

Overall, if your looking for gothic witchy vibes to add to your TBR this fall, I definitely recommend picking up this book! But be warned, your going to wish the second book was out already!
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for giving me a chance to review book!

The Crimson Crown by Heather Walter is the most interesting evil queen from snow white origin story ever!
This was a great sapphic reimagining.
A gripping tale which builds up to an epic ending.
A spellbinding take that captured my full attention and I didn’t stop till I was finished.

I love retellings, especially when the author really makes the story their own.

Heather Walter is truly gifted in both retelling fairy tales from the villains POV and for giving her books explosive endings. (If you haven't read Malice by this author yet, please do yourself a favor. I enjoyed the entire book but the ending was blow your mind amazing.)

Ayleth was bold and brave, but she was terribly lost without her sister. She suffered from intrusive thoughts that went unchecked and often lead to reckless decisions (good for readers, not so good for Ayleth).

Another aspect I appreciate so much is when the MC's sidekick/partner in crime is a mischievous animal. Nettle was loyal, sassy and unstoppable. I swear my Jace could fill pages with his shenanigans and he would like to audition for her next book 😹😹.

There was background not only on witch history, but the dwarves too (not the 7 dwarves, but dwarves in general who disappeared when the witches were attacked).

This book was well crafted and entertaining. I can't wait for the rest of this Duology!

Thank you NetGalley, Heather Walter and Penguin Random House for the ARC. Review: goodreads.com/kval01, IG: books_beaches_and_tea
To follow on Amazon/Barnes & Noble

I really enjoyed reading The Crimson Crown, from beginning to end. The short review is, if you enjoy fairytale retellings and/or villain origin stories, read this. This book is also perfect for the fall season- it’s witchy and has a cozy vibe. Heads up, this book does get somewhat gory, especially in part 5.

This story dives into the evil witch from Snow White’s (Ayleth) backstory, and it’s full of drama, magic, and intrigue. The novel is also has some mystery and a sapphic love story that felt refreshing for the (booming) genre.

Ayleth, our main character, is a perfect mix of strength and vulnerability. She’s meant to be in her twenties (I think), but her portrayal feels a bit more like a late teenager, which can be a bit distracting at times. However, the book’s rich world-building and the twists and turns in the plot make up for this, and it doesn’t take away from the story.

The ending was perfect- I’m already looking forward to the next book. If you enjoy a mix of witchy magic, some fairytale style mystery, and a bit of romance, The Crimson Crown is definitely worth a read!

Thank you to Del Rey for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

This is a sapphic reimagining of Snow White following the Evil Queen before her rise to villainy, back when she was merely a young witch named Ayleth who would do anything for her sister.

This was… fine. It was a pretty solid fantasy, but I never developed any strong feelings towards the plot or characters. The story felt like it wanted to lean more into coven and court politics, but never made the effort to truly dive into them. Everything was merely surface level and very meandering. I never felt the stakes. Even when Ayleth’s life was in danger, I never felt gripped by the story. The book was simply a little too long without proper direction to really sell it.

The character relationships were also lackluster. Ayleth’s rocky relationship with her mother is the prime motivator behind the plot, and yet their issues come across as a little juvenile. I wasn’t completely sold on their strife being a major cause behind Ayleth choosing the path she did. I also wish we saw more malicious actions committed by the White King. He spends most of the book staring intensely at Ayleth or looking bored. Everything to fear from him is known mainly by reputation rather than actual actions occurring. I feel like Jacquetta wasn’t used to her fullest potential as a love interest. She seemed to just float in and out of the story and I wish they had more conversations with actual weight.

One thing Heather Walter knows how to do is write an ending though. As with Malice, while 99% of this book has a slow simmering atmosphere the last 1% explodes with pent up anger. It definitely hooks you into wanting to pick up the sequel. I simply wish that intensity was found throughout the book to help capture your heart and attention. Again, I think this is a solid book. I just did not care for it as much as I hoped.

✨Summary✨
This is a Snow White villain backstory/retelling.
Ayleth was never supposed to be her mother’s second in line. It was always supposed to be her sister, Rhea. But then the King outlawed witchcraft and witches. Their coven was discovered and Rhea died. That was seven years ago and Ayleth has never gotten over the fact that she was never meant to stand as her mother’s second, as their coven’s heads. Neither has her mother. Not to mention, Ayleth doesn’t seem to have a fraction of the amount of power her sister Rhea. To top it all off, she is still healing from a betrayal she suffered from a girl she thought she loved and was going to leave her coven for, Jacquetta.
When Ayleth attempts to go through an accent ritual, securing her place as her mother’s second, she sees something impossible; her sister. The only way to anchor herself fully, so she can be sure what she saw in the fire was really Rhea, Ayleth must go to the King’s castle and use the bloodstones stored there. Along the way, she runs into the next to last person she expects: Jacquetta. Together, they are allowed access into the castle, which is exactly what Ayleth needs. Little does Ayleth realize, getting into the castle may prove to be the easiest part. She must contend with the wild princess and the lecherous king, all while searching for the bloodstones.

👩🏻My Recommendation👩🏻
This was a great witchy, gothic fantasy feel novel just in time for the start of fall/autumn. The writing was excellent and sucked me in immediately. The romance between Ayleth and Jacquetta was emotionally charged. I love a good villain backstory and this did not disappoint. I cannot wait for the next book in this duology!

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing the ARC and the opportunity to review this book.

This book sounded intriguing from the moment I read the synopsis. A witchy, sapphic retelling of the evil queen’s origin story from Snow White?! Sign me up 🫡

I’ll be honest though, the first half of the book was a bit slow for me. Some classic world building, which was interesting enough but not enough action/build up/tension and it was hard for me to keep going at times, but I’m glad I did!

The second half really picked up, the slow burn began to get interesting, we were introduced to many interesting and intriguing side characters and the plot really started to get tangled in mysteries and “what ifs”. I thought the ending was really fleshed out and well done, with the very last chapter leaving me with goosebumps!

I wish the romance was a more dominant part of the plot, because I am who I am 😏 but the story still kept me on my toes and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen in the end!

I usually am one that enjoys a happy ending, but this one was deliciously evil and I loved it 😈

Some tropes & things you’ll find:

🐦‍⬛ Witchy lore
🐦‍⬛ Lovers to enemies to lovers again?
🐦‍⬛ Hidden identities
🐦‍⬛ Secret missions
🐦‍⬛ Monsters from beyond the veil
🐦‍⬛ Unlikely alliances
🐦‍⬛ Slow burn romance
🐦‍⬛ Sapphic romance
🐦‍⬛ Evil origin story
🐦‍⬛ Fairytale retelling
🐦‍⬛ Court politics

This one was VERY slow to ramp up - not in a way that felt clever or careful or deliberate, just slow. We weren't building the world, we were listening to Ayleth complain. Before leaving her coven-centric world behind, we should have gotten to know each type of magic and what it means plus maybe a bit more about their disguise / what being Sisters really entails. Instead Ayleth whined about not being good enough and people holding her accountable for her mistakes and lack of responsibility.

I really liked Malice because of Alice's distinct voice and the very clear role she played. But here, Ayleth just feels like any old YA protagonist in a rather nebuloys/unclear world. Maybe I'll revisit on audiobook so I can zoom through the very slow opening, but with the ebook, I couldn't even pretend to be curious about where the plot was going.

The Crimson Crown is the enthralling tale of Ayleth, a witch in hiding. Though she is supposed to be her mother’s Heir, Ayleth lacks the power she needs. Ayleth sets out on a quest to seek answers at the dangerous White Palace. While there, she sees Jacquetta- the witch who she loved before a heartbreaking betrayal. As Ayleth and Jacquetta form an uneasy alliance, strange magical happenings begin to occur at court. Can Ayleth and Jacquetta accomplish their goals before being swallowed up by the treacherous court?

The Crimson Crown is an incredible fantasy retelling that is difficult to put down. I love the story of the Evil Queen and it’s very hard not to empathize with Ayleth. Heather Walter does an impeccable job of creatively re-imagining villains. There are also echoes of Anne Boleyn’s story which are skillfully woven in. Ayleth deals with complex grief for her sister, her relationship with her mother, and Jacquetta’s betrayal. Their sapphic romance is bittersweet and I'm curious to see where it goes.

I was relieved to see that this is a duology! The ending left me eager for the story to continue, as Ayleth begins to seek revenge for all the wrongs done to her. Also Ayleth’s pet cat Nettle was the cutest! Readers who enjoy clever retellings, sapphic romance, and wickedly good fantasy will love The Crimson Crown.

Thank you to Heather Walter, Del Rey, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

For publisher: My review will be posted on Goodreads, Amazon, Storygraph, and Barnes & Noble etc.

Thank you so much to Del Rey for letting me read this early!


Hey hi hello friends,

can i interest you in a Snow White Esque/ Anne Bolyn retelling? BECAUSE HERE YA GO. this book was such a slow burn but in a good way, think of a steak that need to marinate for it to taste fantastic and let me tell you i am so glad it was.

We follow Ayleth as she tries to navigate trying to be her mothers perfect daughter after she makes a horrible mistake and so we follow her as she tries to right it this horrible thing she did because it cost her someone she loves and you see her struggle through guilt and her own sense of right and wrong as the story progresses and without getting to spoilery. the ending had me screaming and crying.

I loved everything about this and cannot WAIT for the sequel.

Mirror Mirror on the wall. Whose the fairest of them all?

The Crimson Crown is the first in a Duology by Heather Walter. This is a retelling of Snow White told from the evil queen's Pov. Ayleth is a young witch who lives in the forest with her coven. They have to practise magic in secret in fear of being discovered by the Royal Huntsman. Ayleth goes on a journey to find the Bloodstones in the hopes of bringing her sister back from beyond the veil. She gets caught up in the charismatic White King's web and even finds someone from her past that had betrayed her. Ayleth has to find the strength to transform into someone she never thought she could be.

I have to say that I enjoyed the writing and world that the author wrote. Ayleth was such a complex character to get to know. The book has little nods to Snow White sprinkled through out. To be honest I don't think this needs to be a retelling of Snow White. The story and characters are intriguing enough on their own to stand as a new story.

The relationships I fear is the weakest part of the book. In the beginning they are fine. I like the one between Ayleth and her mother but I also would have liked to see more between Ayleth and her sister Rhea. I am not a super fan of large time jumps especially when things happen in that time that we as readers need to know. I would have liked the relationship between Jacquetta, an ex of Auleth's who betrayed her in that missing time. I feel nothing for the relationship between these two because Jacquetta doesn't feel like a fully realized character. I would also like to see more between Ayleth and Rhea. We only get a little bit of their relationship so I don't really feel the loss of her sister for Ayleth.

I also feel like the book could have been a little shorter. There are some spots that seemed to drag on longer than they should.

I do look forward to the next book to see how Ayleth is as the witch Queen.

Thank you to Netgalley and Random house for an e ARC of The Crimson Crown by Heather Walter.

One of my favorite reads of the summer. The emotion built into this story is so raw and real it left me breathless and sobbing. In this rearranged rendering of a classic fairytale, we learn the villain origin story of Snow White's dark queen. Once just Ayleth, her journey is built brick by brick on a castle of lies, deceit, heartbreak, betrayal, loss and grief from all those around her. What starts as a noble journey to save her realm from the evil forces at work across the veil and bring her sister back, ends in a growing darkness within her that will not be satiated until everyone and everything that her coven once stood for has been destroyed. An absolute 5/5 would recommend to any fantasy and romance reader I know!

A fascinating take on Snow White. I’ll be honest, by the time my request for this was granted and I started reading it, I had forgotten that this was billed as a Snow White retelling. I wish everyone could go into it blind because that last chapter!! What an absolutely shocking ending if you didn’t realize the inspiration (frankly, even if you did). Wholly unique.

We follow Ayleth, a young witch who has never quite fit in to her coven. Second best to a beloved sister, persecuted by those outside the coven, burdened by the weight of expectations, Ayleth wants so badly to do the right thing. Yet at every turn she is betrayed by everyone she loves and trusts. Her slow descent into the final culmination of this book made so much sense and yet was heartbreaking to read.

The Crimson Crown by Heather Walter was not my usual choice of literature. Unfortunately, I found it difficult to become engaged with the storyline and ultimately did not complete the book.

so the idea of this story was super intriguing BUT i just could not get into it. it was super drawn out and long that i was just so bored the whole time. like my favorite part was the end 🙃 but if you’re a fan of the origin story of snow whites dark queen, you will love this!! i just could not get into it, it was not for me