What do you think?
Rate this book
The Golden Court #1
A River of Golden Bones
From bestselling author and TikTok sensation A.K. Mulford comes the first riveting, enchanting book in the all-new Golden Court romantasy trilogy—A River of Golden Bones begins a journey of self-discovery, romance, and adventure for a young heir as she/they comes out of hiding to save her sister from a malicious, powerful sorceress and her dangerous sleeping curse.
A sleeping curse. A fallen court. A secret twin.
Twins Calla and Briar have spent their entire lives hiding from the powerful sorceress who destroyed their kingdom…and from the humans who don’t know they are Wolves. Each twin has their own purpose in life: Briar’s is to marry the prince of an ally pack and save the Golden Court. Calla’s purpose is to remain a secret, her twin’s shadow . . . the backup plan.
No one knows who Calla truly is except for her childhood friend—and sister’s betrothed—the distractingly handsome Prince Grae. But when Calla and Briar journey out of hiding for Briar’s wedding, all of their well-made plans go awry. The evil sorceress is back with another sleeping curse for the last heir to the Golden Court.
Calla must step out of the shadows to save their sister, their kingdom, and their own legacy. Continuing to hide as a human and denying who she truly is, Calla embarks on a quest across the realm, discovering a whole world she never knew existed. Outside the confines of rigid Wolf society, Calla begins to wonder: who could she be if she dared to try?
Full of adventure, love, gender exploration, and self-discovery, A River of Golden Bones follows Calla’s journey through treacherous Wolf kingdoms, monster-filled realms, and the depths of their own heart in this thrilling romantic fantasy.
A sleeping curse. A fallen court. A secret twin.
Twins Calla and Briar have spent their entire lives hiding from the powerful sorceress who destroyed their kingdom…and from the humans who don’t know they are Wolves. Each twin has their own purpose in life: Briar’s is to marry the prince of an ally pack and save the Golden Court. Calla’s purpose is to remain a secret, her twin’s shadow . . . the backup plan.
No one knows who Calla truly is except for her childhood friend—and sister’s betrothed—the distractingly handsome Prince Grae. But when Calla and Briar journey out of hiding for Briar’s wedding, all of their well-made plans go awry. The evil sorceress is back with another sleeping curse for the last heir to the Golden Court.
Calla must step out of the shadows to save their sister, their kingdom, and their own legacy. Continuing to hide as a human and denying who she truly is, Calla embarks on a quest across the realm, discovering a whole world she never knew existed. Outside the confines of rigid Wolf society, Calla begins to wonder: who could she be if she dared to try?
Full of adventure, love, gender exploration, and self-discovery, A River of Golden Bones follows Calla’s journey through treacherous Wolf kingdoms, monster-filled realms, and the depths of their own heart in this thrilling romantic fantasy.
400 pages, Paperback
First published December 5, 2023
About the author
A.K. Mulford
21 books1,696 followersA.K. Mulford is a bestselling fantasy author and former wildlife biologist who swapped rehabilitating monkeys for writing novels.
She/they are inspired to create diverse stories that transport readers to new realms, making them fall in love with fantasy for the first time, or, all over again.
She now lives in New Zealand with her husband and two young human primates, creating lovable fantasy characters and making ridiculous Tiktoks (@akmulfordauthor).
Get the Okrith Novellas FREE at www.akmulford.com
She/they are inspired to create diverse stories that transport readers to new realms, making them fall in love with fantasy for the first time, or, all over again.
She now lives in New Zealand with her husband and two young human primates, creating lovable fantasy characters and making ridiculous Tiktoks (@akmulfordauthor).
Get the Okrith Novellas FREE at www.akmulford.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 899 reviews
November 29, 2023
A beautiful journey of self-discovery and queer identity, filled with heart-stopping romance and page-turning adventure. A River of Golden Bones is a must read for fantasy and romance readers alike. I couldn’t put it down!
December 5, 2023
Happy release day!! 🩷🤍💜🖤💙
This story started with the question: What is Sleeping Beauty had a secret twin and it was their job to save the day?
This book is for you if you love:
👑 Royalty
🐺 Fated Mates
⚔️ Quests
🫂 Found Family
🏳️🌈 LGBTQIA+ rep
🌶️ Steamy Romance
This story started with the question: What is Sleeping Beauty had a secret twin and it was their job to save the day?
This book is for you if you love:
👑 Royalty
🐺 Fated Mates
⚔️ Quests
🫂 Found Family
🏳️🌈 LGBTQIA+ rep
🌶️ Steamy Romance
Want to read
April 30, 2023If she writes it, I’ll read it. 😉
November 5, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for ARC. I received my copy in exchange of an honest review.
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.
Well, that was enough for me to fell in love with this book so I requested an ARC. Now let me just say: thank GOD and NetGalley and Publisher for approving my request!
Calla, the main character, is Briar's secret twin, who is the Olmdar's heir. Calla always lived in shadows and no one-not really no one though!- knows about her. But when Sawyn, a wicked sorcerer that curse Calla and Briar's mother some years before, gets back and puts the same Sleeping Curse on Briar, Calla must come out of the shadows and do the one thing that could break Briar's curse; defeating Sawyn and taking back the Olmdare's throne once again.
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 liked the way that Calla met Ora, How they connected and How Ora guides Calla to self-discovery.
And about the romance! Yeah!!! I loved our main couple. They're beautiful and sexy and everything I want a main couple to be.
I liked side characters, too. Sadi, Hector, Navin, Ora, Mina and Malou and their friendships with calla. How they supported each other and how they formed a pack of Werewolves and humens to fight together for a better world besides all of their differences.
Actually, I can't remember any other Werewolf books that I liked. So I'm happy that finally we have a fantasy series that focuses on them, not Vampires and Faes and Dragons who are Over-Fucused these days!
I really need book 2 now, specially with that plot twist about Sawyn and the cliffhanger wich makes me restless for next book.
❤
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.
Well, that was enough for me to fell in love with this book so I requested an ARC. Now let me just say: thank GOD and NetGalley and Publisher for approving my request!
Calla, the main character, is Briar's secret twin, who is the Olmdar's heir. Calla always lived in shadows and no one-not really no one though!- knows about her. But when Sawyn, a wicked sorcerer that curse Calla and Briar's mother some years before, gets back and puts the same Sleeping Curse on Briar, Calla must come out of the shadows and do the one thing that could break Briar's curse; defeating Sawyn and taking back the Olmdare's throne once again.
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 liked the way that Calla met Ora, How they connected and How Ora guides Calla to self-discovery.
And about the romance! Yeah!!! I loved our main couple. They're beautiful and sexy and everything I want a main couple to be.
I liked side characters, too. Sadi, Hector, Navin, Ora, Mina and Malou and their friendships with calla. How they supported each other and how they formed a pack of Werewolves and humens to fight together for a better world besides all of their differences.
Actually, I can't remember any other Werewolf books that I liked. So I'm happy that finally we have a fantasy series that focuses on them, not Vampires and Faes and Dragons who are Over-Fucused these days!
I really need book 2 now, specially with that plot twist about Sawyn and the cliffhanger wich makes me restless for next book.
❤
January 4, 2024
Thank you Harper Voyager for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts!
A RIVER OF GOLDEN BONES was my first wolf-shifter romance and I really enjoyed it! I loved how A. K. Mulford explored themes of belonging and self-discovery, and queer identity through the lense of a twisted Sleepy Beauty retelling. I loved Calla as a main character and I am excited to see how her relationship with Grae develops in future books. Hopefully, we get Grae's POV woven in there!
My biggest complaint about this book was the pacing. There were long lulls between action scenes and those in-between scenes didn't keep me engaged as much as I wanted. That's just personal preference though.
I enjoyed this enough to continue on with the next books! 3.5/5 stars
A RIVER OF GOLDEN BONES was my first wolf-shifter romance and I really enjoyed it! I loved how A. K. Mulford explored themes of belonging and self-discovery, and queer identity through the lense of a twisted Sleepy Beauty retelling. I loved Calla as a main character and I am excited to see how her relationship with Grae develops in future books. Hopefully, we get Grae's POV woven in there!
My biggest complaint about this book was the pacing. There were long lulls between action scenes and those in-between scenes didn't keep me engaged as much as I wanted. That's just personal preference though.
I enjoyed this enough to continue on with the next books! 3.5/5 stars
December 15, 2023
Just to be clear, the first 10 chapters made me excited for the story and I had initially thought I'd rate it 4 stars. So why the sudden drop to 1 star? Well, where do I start.
With all due respect just because a book is set in a world with different species and fancy names deemed otherworldly to our current one doesn't mean it's a fantasy book. A fantasy book needs to have worldbuilding nailed down to a tea and this doesn't. Before your read it know that is a half a romance with someone and half a romance with oneself. It felt like the author had a checklist of themes she wanted to discuss and ticked them as she went. It's a full bag of contemporary themes discussed in the world that is so fuzzily described that I can only imagine it being similar to kingdoms of the past so it makes absolute no sense to be discussing said themes in this realm. If the worldbuilding hadn't been so poor it might've been ok.
So many things were made focus that had absolutely nothing to do with the whole story and plot so I'm sorry but if you promise me a book about a world reigned by wolves that are shapeshifters and queens to a lost kingdom I couldn't care less about their personal dilema over if they feel like a girl or a boy or a sheep for all that matter. I didn't pick up this book thinking I'd have to deal with so many themes that are not relatable to the main plot of this story. It's falsely advertised in my opinion and I want my time and money back!
Sloppy characters, what a drama queen of a main character too... bloody hell I couldn't stand her by the end of it. The amount of character changes that are not justifiable or believable throughout the book are too many to cout. I don't think I'm being harsh I just think whoever decided this was a well written story deserving of publishing needs to find themselves another job or to sit down and read actual fantasy books to try and discern what is and what isn't.
Also. the ending. it would've won brownie points if it stayed by chapter 41 where something deemed life changing happens that would alter the course of the story. but guess what? it didn't stick to that, spoiler alert, it all ends well. what a boring idea.
So many things I want to say but even tho I absolutely hated every second of it I don't want to spoil it for anyone who may think this is good. Clearly a lot of people out there seem to find this worthy of their time. You do you.
I won't be reading anything this author publishes going forward. You ain't fooling me twice.
Quite possibly the worst book of the year.
With all due respect just because a book is set in a world with different species and fancy names deemed otherworldly to our current one doesn't mean it's a fantasy book. A fantasy book needs to have worldbuilding nailed down to a tea and this doesn't. Before your read it know that is a half a romance with someone and half a romance with oneself. It felt like the author had a checklist of themes she wanted to discuss and ticked them as she went. It's a full bag of contemporary themes discussed in the world that is so fuzzily described that I can only imagine it being similar to kingdoms of the past so it makes absolute no sense to be discussing said themes in this realm. If the worldbuilding hadn't been so poor it might've been ok.
So many things were made focus that had absolutely nothing to do with the whole story and plot so I'm sorry but if you promise me a book about a world reigned by wolves that are shapeshifters and queens to a lost kingdom I couldn't care less about their personal dilema over if they feel like a girl or a boy or a sheep for all that matter. I didn't pick up this book thinking I'd have to deal with so many themes that are not relatable to the main plot of this story. It's falsely advertised in my opinion and I want my time and money back!
Sloppy characters, what a drama queen of a main character too... bloody hell I couldn't stand her by the end of it. The amount of character changes that are not justifiable or believable throughout the book are too many to cout. I don't think I'm being harsh I just think whoever decided this was a well written story deserving of publishing needs to find themselves another job or to sit down and read actual fantasy books to try and discern what is and what isn't.
Also. the ending. it would've won brownie points if it stayed by chapter 41 where something deemed life changing happens that would alter the course of the story. but guess what? it didn't stick to that, spoiler alert, it all ends well. what a boring idea.
So many things I want to say but even tho I absolutely hated every second of it I don't want to spoil it for anyone who may think this is good. Clearly a lot of people out there seem to find this worthy of their time. You do you.
I won't be reading anything this author publishes going forward. You ain't fooling me twice.
Quite possibly the worst book of the year.
September 6, 2023
A gripping wolf shifter Romantasy smothered in fated mates and a dash of sleeping beauty!
I am such a sucker for fated mates, and wolf shifters let alone a fairytale retelling! This book challenged the social norms and felt incredibly inclusive.
The golden wolf pack was wiped out by an evil sorceress who took the kingdom by force and named herself Queen. She cursed the FMCs mother, but not before she delivered a healthy baby girl and sole heir to the throne. That is, until her twin followed shortly after. Two baby girls were born that day and with their mothers dying wish, they were taken by a fairy godmother of sorts to be raised into the women they needed to become. One day they would take back their homeland and sit upon the golden throne once more.
I loved the twist on this classic story brought to a whole new level with warring kingdoms, villains on both sides and a satisfying ending that leaves more to be told without the headache of a cliffhanger!
I am such a sucker for fated mates, and wolf shifters let alone a fairytale retelling! This book challenged the social norms and felt incredibly inclusive.
The golden wolf pack was wiped out by an evil sorceress who took the kingdom by force and named herself Queen. She cursed the FMCs mother, but not before she delivered a healthy baby girl and sole heir to the throne. That is, until her twin followed shortly after. Two baby girls were born that day and with their mothers dying wish, they were taken by a fairy godmother of sorts to be raised into the women they needed to become. One day they would take back their homeland and sit upon the golden throne once more.
I loved the twist on this classic story brought to a whole new level with warring kingdoms, villains on both sides and a satisfying ending that leaves more to be told without the headache of a cliffhanger!
December 16, 2023
This book promised a lot and unfortunately did not deliver. I was excited to read it as the concept sounded unique and this book already had so many good reviews (most of them ARCs which probably explains a lot) but within the first few chapters I was already struggling.
The MFC is extremely unlikeable- and not in the 'I am annoying but will grow on you through the book as we journey through this together' kind of way. She had literally no personality other than punching people and being erratic for no reason at all. There is very little world building and every character was a fantasy cliché. The mean people were mean for no reason and it felt as if the author just had a checklist of every booktok trend out there to make sure she covered them all.
If I have to read one more line about how someone smells of bonfires or how someone growls with pleasure, I will scream.
Lastly, this is a YA romance with unnecessary spice in it to push it up to New Adult.
The MFC is extremely unlikeable- and not in the 'I am annoying but will grow on you through the book as we journey through this together' kind of way. She had literally no personality other than punching people and being erratic for no reason at all. There is very little world building and every character was a fantasy cliché. The mean people were mean for no reason and it felt as if the author just had a checklist of every booktok trend out there to make sure she covered them all.
If I have to read one more line about how someone smells of bonfires or how someone growls with pleasure, I will scream.
Lastly, this is a YA romance with unnecessary spice in it to push it up to New Adult.
December 6, 2023
A fun and innovative new adult series. The first book is a retelling of the beloved fairytale Sleeping Beauty but with a refreshing twist. Instead of the expected prince charming, we have Calla, the twin sister of Briar, who is on a quest to save her sister from an internal sleep and reclaim their lost kingdom from an evil sorceress Along her path of self-discovery and retribution, she finds love and acceptance that will last a lifetime. I'm eagerly anticipating what twists and turns this series will deliver next.
January 15, 2024
3.5/5 stars, there were some nice themes but I didn't fully click with the story
Thank you to Harper Voyager & Avon Books for the arc through netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
First of all, this cover is so gorgeous and I am feeling very thankful that I was able to have the opportunity to read this book. I hadn't received anything from Avon or Harper Voyager before this, so I was thankful to receive an arc to try out this book with. This is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, and I was very intrigued because I have not read many retellings of this specific fairytale. There's also magic, friends to enemies to lovers, and wolves in this fantasy story.
I won't lie and say I haven't ever really been a fan of werewolves (vampire girly instead) but I was willing to give it a shot again with this book. One thing I did like about this part of the book was how tight-knit some of the clans were, and it made it interesting that betrayals were happening. However, I couldn't get behind the concept fully and there were times when it sort of weirded me out to be reading about it, however, that is a me thing and not really so much about the book itself or the story.
Sleeping Beauty is such a classic story and like I said I haven't read many retellings of it, and I enjoyed that there was a sister aspect in this. I always really enjoy when siblings are involved in a story especially when it's a good connection between siblings and they support each other. Beyond that, there were themes of 'mates' as well which can really go either way for me, but I didn't mind it that much this time.
I didn't feel lots of connection to the main characters, or any of the side characters but I did enjoy seeing how the main character grew throughout the book. They, and the representation they bring to the overall story, were well done and I enjoyed seeing them become more comfortable in themselves and have others around them accept them. The romance in this book was also fine, I didn't feel any particular way about it so I felt a little disappointed at the end.
All that being said, the magic system and story that is still being set up for the coming books seems interesting and so I am intrigued for how the story will continue.
[TW: death and murder, blood and gore, death of loved ones, knife violence, torture and child abuse, kidnapping, death in childbirth, nightmares and trauma]
Thank you to Harper Voyager & Avon Books for the arc through netgalley in exchange for an honest review!
First of all, this cover is so gorgeous and I am feeling very thankful that I was able to have the opportunity to read this book. I hadn't received anything from Avon or Harper Voyager before this, so I was thankful to receive an arc to try out this book with. This is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty, and I was very intrigued because I have not read many retellings of this specific fairytale. There's also magic, friends to enemies to lovers, and wolves in this fantasy story.
I won't lie and say I haven't ever really been a fan of werewolves (vampire girly instead) but I was willing to give it a shot again with this book. One thing I did like about this part of the book was how tight-knit some of the clans were, and it made it interesting that betrayals were happening. However, I couldn't get behind the concept fully and there were times when it sort of weirded me out to be reading about it, however, that is a me thing and not really so much about the book itself or the story.
Sleeping Beauty is such a classic story and like I said I haven't read many retellings of it, and I enjoyed that there was a sister aspect in this. I always really enjoy when siblings are involved in a story especially when it's a good connection between siblings and they support each other. Beyond that, there were themes of 'mates' as well which can really go either way for me, but I didn't mind it that much this time.
I didn't feel lots of connection to the main characters, or any of the side characters but I did enjoy seeing how the main character grew throughout the book. They, and the representation they bring to the overall story, were well done and I enjoyed seeing them become more comfortable in themselves and have others around them accept them. The romance in this book was also fine, I didn't feel any particular way about it so I felt a little disappointed at the end.
All that being said, the magic system and story that is still being set up for the coming books seems interesting and so I am intrigued for how the story will continue.
[TW: death and murder, blood and gore, death of loved ones, knife violence, torture and child abuse, kidnapping, death in childbirth, nightmares and trauma]
December 16, 2023
A little late from the December 5 publication day, but this book is available now!
I’m brand new to the fantasy genre. Historically, I’ve stuck with horror and thrillers. Ever since I read Fourth Wing, I’ve been craving more like it-or better.
I’m thrilled to say that I enjoyed this novel immensely! A sleeping beauty retelling with more grit-and Wolves.
Calla and Briar are twins. They were raised by a fairy that promised their mother to keep them safe as her last dying wish. Calla and Briar’s parents were royalty. Before they died, they betrothed Briar to the prince of another kingdom to keep their bloodline alive.
The dark side of this story is that their mother was murdered on the night of their birth by an evil sorceress, determined to steal the throne. The sorceress has no idea that Calla exists. The fairy protected the secret existence of Calla and her sister, Princess Briar, from being put to death by the same hand. But now that Briar is of age to marry, Briar must walk towards the sound of wedding bells. Towards the hands of evil. On the night of the wedding, Briar is attacked by the evil sorceress and the same curse her mother wrought leaves her in a deep, everlasting sleep.
Calla steps out of the shadows determined to avenge her sister, the death of her parents, and to take over the throne to the kingdom she was meant to lead.
This novel is so entertaining, interesting, and unique! I would gladly recommend this to others searching for the same type of read I was. The world of shifting wolves and magic was thoroughly addicting.
A great thank you goes out to A.K. Mulford, Avon and Harper Voyager, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I’m brand new to the fantasy genre. Historically, I’ve stuck with horror and thrillers. Ever since I read Fourth Wing, I’ve been craving more like it-or better.
I’m thrilled to say that I enjoyed this novel immensely! A sleeping beauty retelling with more grit-and Wolves.
Calla and Briar are twins. They were raised by a fairy that promised their mother to keep them safe as her last dying wish. Calla and Briar’s parents were royalty. Before they died, they betrothed Briar to the prince of another kingdom to keep their bloodline alive.
The dark side of this story is that their mother was murdered on the night of their birth by an evil sorceress, determined to steal the throne. The sorceress has no idea that Calla exists. The fairy protected the secret existence of Calla and her sister, Princess Briar, from being put to death by the same hand. But now that Briar is of age to marry, Briar must walk towards the sound of wedding bells. Towards the hands of evil. On the night of the wedding, Briar is attacked by the evil sorceress and the same curse her mother wrought leaves her in a deep, everlasting sleep.
Calla steps out of the shadows determined to avenge her sister, the death of her parents, and to take over the throne to the kingdom she was meant to lead.
This novel is so entertaining, interesting, and unique! I would gladly recommend this to others searching for the same type of read I was. The world of shifting wolves and magic was thoroughly addicting.
A great thank you goes out to A.K. Mulford, Avon and Harper Voyager, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2024
I got to page 130 (40%) and had to stop. The main character is supposed to be 20 years old, trained for a life at court, but they act like a juvenile. I mean, how dare my friend not publicly oppose his evil dad when doing so would probably mean he would be killed?” *stamps wolf paw*
The world building is clunky. “Tell us 20-year-olds a bedtime story, faerie godmother! Tell OUR story.”
There is no wit or charm here.
The world building is clunky. “Tell us 20-year-olds a bedtime story, faerie godmother! Tell OUR story.”
There is no wit or charm here.
August 9, 2023
This was a good romantasy book. I enjoyed the fact that this was different from the usual fae/ vampire romantasy's that are very popular. This has wolf shifters, and it was refreshing to read. This book follows the main character Calla who was born into a royal family, but her parents were killed, and their kingdom was taken over by a sorceress. Calla has a twin sister who has been promised to be a queen, while Calla has trained to be a protector and is hidden as no one knows that she's royal.
I really enjoyed the worldbuilding and descriptions in this, It wasn't hard to understand what was happening. The pacing was also good for the most part, and I was invested and wanted to know what was happening. The middle pacing was a little slow but still flowed well with the story. The characters were really well done, I loved the queer and gender representation and how normalized it is in this world. The romance was spicy, and I don't see a lot of friends-to-lovers trope in fantasy romance, so I liked that aspect. The plot was one of my favorite things, so much, action, political intrigue, adventure, romance, and overall compelling story. The book ended well, and I'm waiting to see what comes next.
Read for:
- Fated mates
- Queer characters
- Wolf shifters
- Political intrigue
- Sleeping beauty retelling
- Strong main character
- Spicy scenes 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Harper Voyager for this arc for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the worldbuilding and descriptions in this, It wasn't hard to understand what was happening. The pacing was also good for the most part, and I was invested and wanted to know what was happening. The middle pacing was a little slow but still flowed well with the story. The characters were really well done, I loved the queer and gender representation and how normalized it is in this world. The romance was spicy, and I don't see a lot of friends-to-lovers trope in fantasy romance, so I liked that aspect. The plot was one of my favorite things, so much, action, political intrigue, adventure, romance, and overall compelling story. The book ended well, and I'm waiting to see what comes next.
Read for:
- Fated mates
- Queer characters
- Wolf shifters
- Political intrigue
- Sleeping beauty retelling
- Strong main character
- Spicy scenes 🌶️🌶️
Thank you to Harper Voyager for this arc for an honest review.
September 24, 2023
I wrapped my arms around his back, feeling the connection that pulled me back into myself. "It's a start."
"We don't need to fix the entire world tomorrow," Grae whispered, brushing his lips against mine. "You don't need to control every flame. Tomorrow is the spark that will set it all ablaze.
This book is a wolf-shifter romance Sleeping Beauty reimagining. I was not expecting it to be a Sleeping Beauty retelling. I go in blindly to all my books.
Overall, I thought it was good. It took me a little to get into the book. I liked the ending, but I think the evil queen’s view was perplexing. This book kept me wanting to read more and more. I can’t wait till the next book.
Tropes-
Fated Mates
Childhood friends to lovers
Slow burn
Touch her and die
One bed
I want to say thank you to Harper Voyager US and Avon books and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"We don't need to fix the entire world tomorrow," Grae whispered, brushing his lips against mine. "You don't need to control every flame. Tomorrow is the spark that will set it all ablaze.
This book is a wolf-shifter romance Sleeping Beauty reimagining. I was not expecting it to be a Sleeping Beauty retelling. I go in blindly to all my books.
Overall, I thought it was good. It took me a little to get into the book. I liked the ending, but I think the evil queen’s view was perplexing. This book kept me wanting to read more and more. I can’t wait till the next book.
Tropes-
Fated Mates
Childhood friends to lovers
Slow burn
Touch her and die
One bed
I want to say thank you to Harper Voyager US and Avon books and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2024
4.5 🌟
I just picked this up on a whim and that totally paid off. I loved the writing style and the characters were amazing as well. I love Calla and I love Ora fiercely. They are both so awesome ❤. As far as the story goes, there is something not sitting completely right with me but I can't put my finger on it yet. Goodreads tells me this is the start of a series but it felt pretty finished to me so I'll be keeping an eye out for more because I'll definetly be reading that!
And finally: This is me, takind a second to appreciate the way that queerness is built into this. ❤🌈
I just picked this up on a whim and that totally paid off. I loved the writing style and the characters were amazing as well. I love Calla and I love Ora fiercely. They are both so awesome ❤. As far as the story goes, there is something not sitting completely right with me but I can't put my finger on it yet. Goodreads tells me this is the start of a series but it felt pretty finished to me so I'll be keeping an eye out for more because I'll definetly be reading that!
And finally: This is me, takind a second to appreciate the way that queerness is built into this. ❤🌈
December 4, 2023
This was the first A.K. Mulford book I have read, and I found her writing enjoyable and easy to read. One thing I enjoyed about the book was the use of werewolves as rulers over humans. It was an interesting take I haven't seen in many high-fantasy, fairytale books. Some of the book's strong points for me were its use of found family and the self-identity exploration of the main character. Some areas where I think can be improved are the pacing of the book and the romantic relationship development. Overall, I enjoyed the book and will probably pick up the next book in the series when it is available.
Thank you to the author and Zoranne for allowing me access to a free e-ARC on Fable!
Thank you to the author and Zoranne for allowing me access to a free e-ARC on Fable!
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
December 13, 2023I tried this because I got it in a book box but it's not for me, I'm not into the fated mates wolf thing and the plot feels a little bit generic so I'm going to try and swap my copy for something better!
December 26, 2023
A River of Golden Bones
by A.K. Mulford
The Golden Court #1
Fantasy Mature
NetGalley ARC
Pub. Date: Dec. 5, 2023
Harper Voyager
Ages: 18+
Calla and Briar are twins, born on two different days, and are hiding from the sorceress who killed their parents and took the throne on the day they were born. Their mother's dying wish was granted by a fairy, though Briar was the only child born at the time, Calla came after the wish and her mother's death.
Hidden from all except Prince Grae and his father, Briar is trained as a princess, destined to marry Prince Grae, and Calla is trained to be her sister's protector.
On their eighteenth birthday, they leave the only home they have ever known for Briar to marry the prince. But the sorceress interrupts before the vows are taken and curses Briar into sleep. To save her sister, Calla leaves to destroy the sorceress.
This story started off slow and disjointed. Things were not really explained in detail so I was not sure what really happened to their parents, who Grae was supposed to be, and why Calla and Briar were so unfeeling. It seemed as if they had no emotions whatsoever. They didn't shed many tears when they left, knowing the Fairy who raised them along with the home was going to disappear and not be seen again.
It did get a little interesting, but then flatlined and I got bored.
The blurb exaggerates the monsters and 'dangers' Calla runs into on her journey. The blurb and genre listing also fails to mention this contains porn, and that failure flushed a star away! (If it's listed as porn, I won't request it!) I understand it's a 'slow-burn-romance', but you don't need the gag-worthy detailed descriptions.
As for the next book in the series... Probably not. The story isn't bad, but it's not worth wading through the puke (porn).
2 Stars
by A.K. Mulford
The Golden Court #1
Fantasy Mature
NetGalley ARC
Pub. Date: Dec. 5, 2023
Harper Voyager
Ages: 18+
Calla and Briar are twins, born on two different days, and are hiding from the sorceress who killed their parents and took the throne on the day they were born. Their mother's dying wish was granted by a fairy, though Briar was the only child born at the time, Calla came after the wish and her mother's death.
Hidden from all except Prince Grae and his father, Briar is trained as a princess, destined to marry Prince Grae, and Calla is trained to be her sister's protector.
On their eighteenth birthday, they leave the only home they have ever known for Briar to marry the prince. But the sorceress interrupts before the vows are taken and curses Briar into sleep. To save her sister, Calla leaves to destroy the sorceress.
This story started off slow and disjointed. Things were not really explained in detail so I was not sure what really happened to their parents, who Grae was supposed to be, and why Calla and Briar were so unfeeling. It seemed as if they had no emotions whatsoever. They didn't shed many tears when they left, knowing the Fairy who raised them along with the home was going to disappear and not be seen again.
It did get a little interesting, but then flatlined and I got bored.
The blurb exaggerates the monsters and 'dangers' Calla runs into on her journey. The blurb and genre listing also fails to mention this contains porn, and that failure flushed a star away! (If it's listed as porn, I won't request it!) I understand it's a 'slow-burn-romance', but you don't need the gag-worthy detailed descriptions.
As for the next book in the series... Probably not. The story isn't bad, but it's not worth wading through the puke (porn).
2 Stars
December 29, 2023
What if Sleeping Beauty didn’t live happily ever after? What if the Evil Queen returned to steal the throne, leaving Sleeping Beauty’s daughters in hiding and her kingdom torn apart? And what would happen when those daughters set out to avenge their parents and take back the kingdom that is rightfully theirs?
This book is a fresh new romantasy with so many things for genre readers to love: a magical fairytale retelling, a super diverse cast of characters, a handsome prince, beloved fantasy tropes (including a delightful “who did this to you” scene), fated mates, and spice that absolutely spices . Unfortunately, this book didn’t really hit the mark for me, hence the 3.5 star rating, rounded down.
One of the most important things to me when reading a book is the character development: Do I understand their motivations and choices? Do they grow and change in realistic ways? Do they feel fully fleshed out and “real” to me- aka, do they feel like full people rather than an amalgamation of tropes projected onto an empty husk of a character? Unfortunately, the characters in this book did not pass this test for me. Calla and Grae both felt flat and underdeveloped, following closely to the same tired romantasy roles that I’ve read many times over. Calla’s exploration of their gender was perhaps the most interesting and true part of their character, but even this unfolded in such on-the-nose dialogue and reflection that it felt stilted and awkward rather than emotionally engaging. Briar’s character was even more disappointing. I had a lot of hopes that this book would celebrate different types of femininity, something I often find missing in “strong” female fantasy leads, but instead, Briar was seemingly written as a milk toast foil to Calla’s warrior persona.
I also had some other minor complaints, including the inconsistent pacing, incomplete world-building, the absolute RAGE I felt when the main characters kept getting interrupted 4.4 seconds into every sexual act (not even joking, this happened at least 15 times), the author’s liberal abuse of the word “wanton”, and the very, very silly “twist” ending. But ultimately, the weak characters are what did this story in for me.
Despite these shortcomings, this book was generally an enjoyable read: the romance was sweet, the spice had me blushing, and best of all, this book introduced an extremely diverse cast of characters that my fantasy bookshelf desperately needs, including a genderfluid main character. I am still planning to continue the series, and am looking forward to seeing the author develop these characters a bit more in later books.
In summary: if you love romantasy, fated mates, fairytale retellings, and spice, and aren’t looking for anything too groundbreaking in your storyline, I think you will really enjoy this book!
This book is a fresh new romantasy with so many things for genre readers to love: a magical fairytale retelling, a super diverse cast of characters, a handsome prince, beloved fantasy tropes (including a delightful “who did this to you” scene), fated mates, and spice that absolutely spices . Unfortunately, this book didn’t really hit the mark for me, hence the 3.5 star rating, rounded down.
One of the most important things to me when reading a book is the character development: Do I understand their motivations and choices? Do they grow and change in realistic ways? Do they feel fully fleshed out and “real” to me- aka, do they feel like full people rather than an amalgamation of tropes projected onto an empty husk of a character? Unfortunately, the characters in this book did not pass this test for me. Calla and Grae both felt flat and underdeveloped, following closely to the same tired romantasy roles that I’ve read many times over. Calla’s exploration of their gender was perhaps the most interesting and true part of their character, but even this unfolded in such on-the-nose dialogue and reflection that it felt stilted and awkward rather than emotionally engaging. Briar’s character was even more disappointing. I had a lot of hopes that this book would celebrate different types of femininity, something I often find missing in “strong” female fantasy leads, but instead, Briar was seemingly written as a milk toast foil to Calla’s warrior persona.
I also had some other minor complaints, including the inconsistent pacing, incomplete world-building, the absolute RAGE I felt when the main characters kept getting interrupted 4.4 seconds into every sexual act (not even joking, this happened at least 15 times), the author’s liberal abuse of the word “wanton”, and the very, very silly “twist” ending. But ultimately, the weak characters are what did this story in for me.
Despite these shortcomings, this book was generally an enjoyable read: the romance was sweet, the spice had me blushing, and best of all, this book introduced an extremely diverse cast of characters that my fantasy bookshelf desperately needs, including a genderfluid main character. I am still planning to continue the series, and am looking forward to seeing the author develop these characters a bit more in later books.
In summary: if you love romantasy, fated mates, fairytale retellings, and spice, and aren’t looking for anything too groundbreaking in your storyline, I think you will really enjoy this book!
December 19, 2023
Beautiful cover… let’s keep it with that.
November 9, 2023
I just want to hug this book!!! I loved it so much for the comforting characters and the author's smooth storytelling. I am a huge fan of A.K. Mulford and this did not disappoint.
Calla is twin to the missing golden wolf princess, which, of course, makes Calla a missing princess too. They are the last of the golden wolves, wolf shifters, whose family were the monarchs of a kingdom. When Briar and Calla were born, an evil sorceress murdered their parents along with all the other golden wolves and took over their kingdom. Calla and Briar have been raised by a faerie who kept them safe until it was time for Briar to wed the prince of the silver wolves which also marked the time for both sisters to come out of hiding in secrecy. However, as per usual in any good book, things do not go as expected... at all.
Calla went through a journey in this story in more ways than one. There are so many meaningful and insightful quotes throughout this book that I definitely recommend a good highlighter or tabs for! Most meaningful to me is the author's incredibly kind and understanding way of expressing Calla's gender and the very real fears that go along with self-discovery. This not only made me feel seen but just so comforted by these characters (particularly Ora).
I definitely recommend this one!!
Out December 5, 2023!
Thank you, Netgalley and Publisher, for this Arc!
Calla is twin to the missing golden wolf princess, which, of course, makes Calla a missing princess too. They are the last of the golden wolves, wolf shifters, whose family were the monarchs of a kingdom. When Briar and Calla were born, an evil sorceress murdered their parents along with all the other golden wolves and took over their kingdom. Calla and Briar have been raised by a faerie who kept them safe until it was time for Briar to wed the prince of the silver wolves which also marked the time for both sisters to come out of hiding in secrecy. However, as per usual in any good book, things do not go as expected... at all.
Calla went through a journey in this story in more ways than one. There are so many meaningful and insightful quotes throughout this book that I definitely recommend a good highlighter or tabs for! Most meaningful to me is the author's incredibly kind and understanding way of expressing Calla's gender and the very real fears that go along with self-discovery. This not only made me feel seen but just so comforted by these characters (particularly Ora).
I definitely recommend this one!!
Out December 5, 2023!
Thank you, Netgalley and Publisher, for this Arc!
November 3, 2023
♡ 261/ 100
Take a shot every time A.K. Mulford uses the word wanton, LOL.
A River of Golden Bones follows two twins: Calla and Briar. They are the final golden wolves in the four lands as their parents and pack were murdered by the evil sorceress on the day of their birth. Since then, they have been raised by a fairy named Vellia, who vowed to protect them until age 20 when they must be married off. However, both sisters have been raised with different roles. Briar is the beloved twin, she will be queen and has been raised to fit that position, whilst Calla's identity has been hidden and they've just been Briar's protector within the shadows. The only people who know of Calla's true identities besides her sister and Vellia are King Nero and his son who is also Calla's best friend and crush, Prince Grae. However, on the night of Briar's wedding, all goes wrong when the Moon Goddess blesses her and Calla with their fated mates, a rarity amongst the wolf shifters, and her fated mate isn't Grae, but his cousin Maev instead.
Calla, who is used to being a background character is put into the spotlight when the moon goddess reveals Calla's true mate is Prince Grae himself and now the community is wondering how royalty is ending up with what they believe to be a servant. The night is still young when the sorceress attacks and curses Briar and steals her mate so no one can wake her up with a true love's kiss, but the sorceress doesn't know there is another heir to the Olmdere golden wolf throne, and she also doesn't know that Calla will do anything to save her sister. Within these 400 pages, we are taken through an adventure across all four kingdoms of wolves: Onyx, Ice, Silver, and what once belonged to Gold wolves as Calla and her newly found pack are fighting to save her sister whilst running from the King's assassins.
That description sucked but there is literally so much that goes on within these 400 pages it is IMPOSSIBLE to summarize. Regardless this Sleeping Beauty retelling was FANTASTIC. This was also the first time I've ever read a werewolf book and I didn't hate it! I've always been more of a vampire gal, but werewolves can have there moment for now. To be honest, I didn't know this was going to be a werewolf book and then I kept seeing fated mates, litter, and pups... But as I said I didn't hate it as much as I anticipated I would.
I loved the romance between Calla and Grae in this a lot. Although it's clear both of them have so much love for each other from the beginning, the push and pull these characters go through shows their connection and makes the wait worthwhile. It did get annoying sometimes because this man was DOWN BAD, but she felt so betrayed she would be like "No, go away" but in her head, they were still so in love with him.
The found family aspect though was definitely the BEST part. Calla goes on her journey and meets these musicians who aren't like her to put it lightly and they are all such amazing characters. I feel like werewolf packs make it easy to do the found family trope, but the dynamic of all of these characters warmed my heart. I absolutely love Sadie and Hector!
One of the main standouts for me was the gender exploration and the LGBT representation. It didn't feel forced into the story at all and genuinely felt natural. Calla throughout the story is finding themself and I believe they go by she/they pronouns! Seeing people accept them for who they are made my heart so warm, but also seeing her come to terms with it was something special. I also appreciate how Calla's character had no prejudice against anyone and by the end, they're definitely one of the best people any of those kingdoms had ever seen.
My only complaint that prevents this from becoming a new favorite book is that everything wrapped up in the end too conveniently. There are these huge moments that happen, that Mulford just twists so we're not left on a cliffhanger or absolutely devastated, but I kinda would have liked the stakes. The ending was still well done, but there are around two or three things that happen towards the end that most fantasy authors would use as a huge plot device or cliffhanger, but Mulford just starts the next chapter and is like "Yeah, I won't break your heart like that".
You could also end this story just at this one book. The story arc ends here and another continues in the sequel, so if you wanted to end it here you would only miss out on the other story arc, romance, and the found family in the next book.
(A River of Golden Bones releases on December 5, 2023, from Harper Voyager, thank you!)
Take a shot every time A.K. Mulford uses the word wanton, LOL.
A River of Golden Bones follows two twins: Calla and Briar. They are the final golden wolves in the four lands as their parents and pack were murdered by the evil sorceress on the day of their birth. Since then, they have been raised by a fairy named Vellia, who vowed to protect them until age 20 when they must be married off. However, both sisters have been raised with different roles. Briar is the beloved twin, she will be queen and has been raised to fit that position, whilst Calla's identity has been hidden and they've just been Briar's protector within the shadows. The only people who know of Calla's true identities besides her sister and Vellia are King Nero and his son who is also Calla's best friend and crush, Prince Grae. However, on the night of Briar's wedding, all goes wrong when the Moon Goddess blesses her and Calla with their fated mates, a rarity amongst the wolf shifters, and her fated mate isn't Grae, but his cousin Maev instead.
Calla, who is used to being a background character is put into the spotlight when the moon goddess reveals Calla's true mate is Prince Grae himself and now the community is wondering how royalty is ending up with what they believe to be a servant. The night is still young when the sorceress attacks and curses Briar and steals her mate so no one can wake her up with a true love's kiss, but the sorceress doesn't know there is another heir to the Olmdere golden wolf throne, and she also doesn't know that Calla will do anything to save her sister. Within these 400 pages, we are taken through an adventure across all four kingdoms of wolves: Onyx, Ice, Silver, and what once belonged to Gold wolves as Calla and her newly found pack are fighting to save her sister whilst running from the King's assassins.
That description sucked but there is literally so much that goes on within these 400 pages it is IMPOSSIBLE to summarize. Regardless this Sleeping Beauty retelling was FANTASTIC. This was also the first time I've ever read a werewolf book and I didn't hate it! I've always been more of a vampire gal, but werewolves can have there moment for now. To be honest, I didn't know this was going to be a werewolf book and then I kept seeing fated mates, litter, and pups... But as I said I didn't hate it as much as I anticipated I would.
I loved the romance between Calla and Grae in this a lot. Although it's clear both of them have so much love for each other from the beginning, the push and pull these characters go through shows their connection and makes the wait worthwhile. It did get annoying sometimes because this man was DOWN BAD, but she felt so betrayed she would be like "No, go away" but in her head, they were still so in love with him.
The found family aspect though was definitely the BEST part. Calla goes on her journey and meets these musicians who aren't like her to put it lightly and they are all such amazing characters. I feel like werewolf packs make it easy to do the found family trope, but the dynamic of all of these characters warmed my heart. I absolutely love Sadie and Hector!
One of the main standouts for me was the gender exploration and the LGBT representation. It didn't feel forced into the story at all and genuinely felt natural. Calla throughout the story is finding themself and I believe they go by she/they pronouns! Seeing people accept them for who they are made my heart so warm, but also seeing her come to terms with it was something special. I also appreciate how Calla's character had no prejudice against anyone and by the end, they're definitely one of the best people any of those kingdoms had ever seen.
My only complaint that prevents this from becoming a new favorite book is that everything wrapped up in the end too conveniently. There are these huge moments that happen, that Mulford just twists so we're not left on a cliffhanger or absolutely devastated, but I kinda would have liked the stakes. The ending was still well done, but there are around two or three things that happen towards the end that most fantasy authors would use as a huge plot device or cliffhanger, but Mulford just starts the next chapter and is like "Yeah, I won't break your heart like that".
You could also end this story just at this one book. The story arc ends here and another continues in the sequel, so if you wanted to end it here you would only miss out on the other story arc, romance, and the found family in the next book.
(A River of Golden Bones releases on December 5, 2023, from Harper Voyager, thank you!)
January 5, 2024
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
A River of Golden Bones by A.K. Mulford is an exciting page turning journey of action, adventure, self-discovery and romance and the first book in the Golden Court series. It has a Sleeping Beauty retelling theme and is set in a fantasy world complete with werewolves, fated mates and royalty. The romance element in the story is quite spicy.
Twins Calla and Briar are in hiding from the powerful sorceress Sawyn who killed their parents, they are the last of the golden wolves. They hide that they are wolves from the humans. Briar is destined to be a princess and marry Prince Grae and Calla is to remain the secret twin and is trained to be her sister’s protector.
When the evil sorceress returns to deliver a sleeping curse to one of the twins the other must go on a quest to save her sleeping twin and their legacy.
The characters in the book are well crafted, I especially loved the interactions when Calla joins a troupe of travelling musicians during her quest.
The LGBT representation was very nicely delivered in a creative way. I love the writing of this author it was enthralling as was the plot and I can’t wait to read more of Mulford’s work. I will definitely be watching out for more of the series to come.
Publication Day 29 November 2023
Publisher Voyager GB
A huge thanks to Harper Collins Australia and Harper Voyager Australia for a copy of the book.
A River of Golden Bones by A.K. Mulford is an exciting page turning journey of action, adventure, self-discovery and romance and the first book in the Golden Court series. It has a Sleeping Beauty retelling theme and is set in a fantasy world complete with werewolves, fated mates and royalty. The romance element in the story is quite spicy.
Twins Calla and Briar are in hiding from the powerful sorceress Sawyn who killed their parents, they are the last of the golden wolves. They hide that they are wolves from the humans. Briar is destined to be a princess and marry Prince Grae and Calla is to remain the secret twin and is trained to be her sister’s protector.
When the evil sorceress returns to deliver a sleeping curse to one of the twins the other must go on a quest to save her sleeping twin and their legacy.
The characters in the book are well crafted, I especially loved the interactions when Calla joins a troupe of travelling musicians during her quest.
The LGBT representation was very nicely delivered in a creative way. I love the writing of this author it was enthralling as was the plot and I can’t wait to read more of Mulford’s work. I will definitely be watching out for more of the series to come.
Publication Day 29 November 2023
Publisher Voyager GB
A huge thanks to Harper Collins Australia and Harper Voyager Australia for a copy of the book.
November 24, 2023
An absolutely fantastic read! Filled with action, adventure and a sprinkle of spice. Mulford delivers another brilliant Romantasy that delivers representation and romance. Absolutely love Cal! Such a great protagonist and inspiring lead. Excellent story and highly recommended! Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own
December 8, 2023
Twins Calla and Briar have been in hiding their entire lives. Hiding from the evil sorceress that destroyed their kingdom and from the humans who don’t know their wolves, each has their own purpose in life. Briar is to marry and save the Golden Court, while Calla is to remain in her twins shadow as a secret. Grae is the prince Briar is to marry and Callas childhood friend. When all plans go awry, the sorceress is back with a sleeping curse, and Calla must step out of the shadows to save it all.
A River of Golden Bones is the romantasy I didn’t know I needed! It was absolutely incredible, relentless, and hooking me from the very beginning. Sleeping Beauty is my favorite and when I saw this was a retelling with wolves, I new I needed to get my hands on it. This story did not disappoint. I am fairly new to the romantasy genre and AROGB completely delivers for someone who isn’t well seasoned to the genre. You get a beautiful story of self discovery, jam packed with action, and spice. There’s so much representation in this story, making it a breath of fresh air. I have a new book boyfriend, and my goodness can Grae call me little fox ANYTIME he desires! I received an ARC and I knew I was going to need a finished copy to keep on my shelves forever. And on publication day 12/5/23, I did just that! You need to put this on your TBR immediately!
Thank you so much Harper Voyager for my gifted ARC and the chance to read and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
A River of Golden Bones is the romantasy I didn’t know I needed! It was absolutely incredible, relentless, and hooking me from the very beginning. Sleeping Beauty is my favorite and when I saw this was a retelling with wolves, I new I needed to get my hands on it. This story did not disappoint. I am fairly new to the romantasy genre and AROGB completely delivers for someone who isn’t well seasoned to the genre. You get a beautiful story of self discovery, jam packed with action, and spice. There’s so much representation in this story, making it a breath of fresh air. I have a new book boyfriend, and my goodness can Grae call me little fox ANYTIME he desires! I received an ARC and I knew I was going to need a finished copy to keep on my shelves forever. And on publication day 12/5/23, I did just that! You need to put this on your TBR immediately!
Thank you so much Harper Voyager for my gifted ARC and the chance to read and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
February 9, 2024
I really, really wanted to love this book, especially because queer romantasy has me in a chokehold right now. I feel like there's far from enough of it, and a special scarcity of romantasy with genderqueer/nonbinary/trans leads. So I was delighted to hear about a Sleeping Beauty retelling with werewolves, spicy romance, and a nonbinary MC whose journey to find comfort in their own skin is central to the plot.
For the large part, A River of Golden Bones ticks those boxes. Twenty year old Briar and Calla are twins, but Calla has always been in their sister's shadow. Briar is the princess who will unite kingdoms by marrying Calla's childhood friend and prince, Graemon. But Briar never saw herself marrying a man, and Calla has eyes for Grae.
When it turns out that Calla and her female bodyguard, Maez, are fated mates, and Calla and Grae also are, it sets in motion an upheaval of the throne and a quest. On this quest, Calla discovers that girlhood always felt uncomfortable for them because they are NOT a girl. They are nonbinary, and this is beautiful and freeing. Oh, and pretty much everyone is a werewolf.
For representation, I love this book and I want to shove it at everyone. We NEED more nonbinary leads, especially in New Adult, which is a largely cishet genre still. My main disappointment with AROGB, though, is that Calla's identity kind of felt...sidelined? When Calla is with Grae, they haven't come out yet, so the spice reads as largely cishet spice. Their romance, too, is essentially cishet through most of the book. I also wish that Calla's journey had felt more central. There are so many parallels to draw between a world in which being a wolf is forbidden and a largely-binary world where being nonbinary is unthinkable, and yet these parallels weren't explored. The writing, too, didn't seem to help. There wasn't a ton of internality on Calla. By the end, I still couldn't really get a read on who they were and what they wanted. Other than Grae. Boy oh boy, did they want Grae.
I think the world and story has a ton of promise, and I probably will pick up Book 2. AROGB seemed to struggle with some pacing issues--a lot of info dumping in the beginning, a shockingly quick fated mates situation, and a meandering middle--but it ended very strongly and with a lot of promise for a sequel. I've heard this is a trilogy and I am excited to see where it develops, especially because wolf shifters really haven't had their moment yet, have they?
I think it's kind of the ACOTAR syndrome: stick it out through Book 1 for those beautiful glimmers (Sadie! Briar and Maez! That twist with villain, Sawyn, at the end!) and then watch the series soar.
Many thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and A.K. Mulford for giving me this e-ARC in exchange for my honest review!
For the large part, A River of Golden Bones ticks those boxes. Twenty year old Briar and Calla are twins, but Calla has always been in their sister's shadow. Briar is the princess who will unite kingdoms by marrying Calla's childhood friend and prince, Graemon. But Briar never saw herself marrying a man, and Calla has eyes for Grae.
When it turns out that Calla and her female bodyguard, Maez, are fated mates, and Calla and Grae also are, it sets in motion an upheaval of the throne and a quest. On this quest, Calla discovers that girlhood always felt uncomfortable for them because they are NOT a girl. They are nonbinary, and this is beautiful and freeing. Oh, and pretty much everyone is a werewolf.
For representation, I love this book and I want to shove it at everyone. We NEED more nonbinary leads, especially in New Adult, which is a largely cishet genre still. My main disappointment with AROGB, though, is that Calla's identity kind of felt...sidelined? When Calla is with Grae, they haven't come out yet, so the spice reads as largely cishet spice. Their romance, too, is essentially cishet through most of the book. I also wish that Calla's journey had felt more central. There are so many parallels to draw between a world in which being a wolf is forbidden and a largely-binary world where being nonbinary is unthinkable, and yet these parallels weren't explored. The writing, too, didn't seem to help. There wasn't a ton of internality on Calla. By the end, I still couldn't really get a read on who they were and what they wanted. Other than Grae. Boy oh boy, did they want Grae.
I think the world and story has a ton of promise, and I probably will pick up Book 2. AROGB seemed to struggle with some pacing issues--a lot of info dumping in the beginning, a shockingly quick fated mates situation, and a meandering middle--but it ended very strongly and with a lot of promise for a sequel. I've heard this is a trilogy and I am excited to see where it develops, especially because wolf shifters really haven't had their moment yet, have they?
I think it's kind of the ACOTAR syndrome: stick it out through Book 1 for those beautiful glimmers (Sadie! Briar and Maez! That twist with villain, Sawyn, at the end!) and then watch the series soar.
Many thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and A.K. Mulford for giving me this e-ARC in exchange for my honest review!
December 3, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐺💤🎭⚔️🎶
I absolutely, wholeheartedly believe with all my heart that AK Mulford is a literary genius.
The way they write and pull you in from page one in not just this book, but all her books is something that not all authors can do.
A River of Golden Bones is the first book of her new series, and I absolutely loved it. You could tell with the way they wrote Calla's emotional journey of finding themselves, that this is a personal reflection for the author too. The words are absolutely beautiful, heartbreaking and it made you want to hold Calla tight and tell them that they are special. I am glad she had her Grae.
The representation in this book is amazing. Calla is genderfluid and bi, Briar is a lesbian, and Maez is sapphic. Ora is non-binary. There are an amazing about of humans and wolves and they made this story feel like home.
The plot line was intriguing from the start, a retelling of sleeping beauty with a queer twist. I loved Calla's strong will to both save their sister and to save their kingdom.
And the spice.. Woooowww. Mated Wolf shifters are horny af.
Love AK Mulford's work and I always will, but I highly recommend this new series.
Thanks to Edelweiss and Harper Collins for a copy of this ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🐺💤🎭⚔️🎶
I absolutely, wholeheartedly believe with all my heart that AK Mulford is a literary genius.
The way they write and pull you in from page one in not just this book, but all her books is something that not all authors can do.
A River of Golden Bones is the first book of her new series, and I absolutely loved it. You could tell with the way they wrote Calla's emotional journey of finding themselves, that this is a personal reflection for the author too. The words are absolutely beautiful, heartbreaking and it made you want to hold Calla tight and tell them that they are special. I am glad she had her Grae.
The representation in this book is amazing. Calla is genderfluid and bi, Briar is a lesbian, and Maez is sapphic. Ora is non-binary. There are an amazing about of humans and wolves and they made this story feel like home.
The plot line was intriguing from the start, a retelling of sleeping beauty with a queer twist. I loved Calla's strong will to both save their sister and to save their kingdom.
And the spice.. Woooowww. Mated Wolf shifters are horny af.
Love AK Mulford's work and I always will, but I highly recommend this new series.
Thanks to Edelweiss and Harper Collins for a copy of this ebook. This review is left voluntarily.
December 7, 2023
A magnificent portrayal of a non-binary MAIN CHARACTER! The story is worth it for the discussions on gender alone, but the world created is a close-second. While the pacing of the plot felt off at times and made it difficult to push through, but it always came back strong.
November 27, 2023
This book is a Sleeping Beauty retelling with wolf shifters— go in expecting a hero's journey with convenient plot points, a handsome Prince that seems to only have eyes for our MC, and things happening at the exact right time.
This very much follows fairytale pacing rather than than traditional fantasy although it has wolf shifters and dark magic and curses.
This book follows Calla, secret twin to Briar who is the princess and heir to the Golden Wolves. Calla’s identity has been kept a secret, and they must forge their own path to save their kingdom and family against greedy Kings and Sorceresses who want to take the power for themselves.
Calla sets out on their journey, meeting a wonderful found-family cast of characters to help them on their journey and teach them lessons along the way.
There is a pretty heavy emphasis on Fated Mates (which is a bit cheesy in execution) but the dynamic makes sense in the universe that Mulford has created
I wish we had gotten more political world-building, because there was a lot of nuance that I felt didn't get explored. I enjoyed the slight magic and wolf elements, and the journey was fun and dangerous with a hint of whimsy.
Ora was by far my favourite character, and they played a big part in helping Calla, our MC, understand who they are and who they want to be.
Although this reads as a bit of a cheesy fairytale, there are plenty of spicy scenes and adult themes— definitely a book for adults!
This very much follows fairytale pacing rather than than traditional fantasy although it has wolf shifters and dark magic and curses.
This book follows Calla, secret twin to Briar who is the princess and heir to the Golden Wolves. Calla’s identity has been kept a secret, and they must forge their own path to save their kingdom and family against greedy Kings and Sorceresses who want to take the power for themselves.
Calla sets out on their journey, meeting a wonderful found-family cast of characters to help them on their journey and teach them lessons along the way.
There is a pretty heavy emphasis on Fated Mates (which is a bit cheesy in execution) but the dynamic makes sense in the universe that Mulford has created
I wish we had gotten more political world-building, because there was a lot of nuance that I felt didn't get explored. I enjoyed the slight magic and wolf elements, and the journey was fun and dangerous with a hint of whimsy.
Ora was by far my favourite character, and they played a big part in helping Calla, our MC, understand who they are and who they want to be.
Although this reads as a bit of a cheesy fairytale, there are plenty of spicy scenes and adult themes— definitely a book for adults!
December 26, 2023
A fun, interesting shifter fantasy romance that kept me entertained from start to finish. This was a sexy, emotionally deep read by a new to me author. I really enjoyed it and am excited to read what's next in this new series. Perfect for fans of TJ Klune or Kelley Armstrong. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: open door!
Steam level: open door!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 899 reviews