Book review of The Court that Bleeds Gold

by Zara Storm (Author)

Updated at: 18/02/2025

In Zara Storm's The Court that Bleeds Gold, the first book in The Gold Weaver trilogy, Lyra makes a desperate deal with a Fae Prince to escape a forced marriage to a cruel king. Her lie – that she can spin gold – unexpectedly becomes her reality, but her freedom is short-lived. Now caught between the King’s demands and the Prince’s captivity, Lyra navigates a treacherous court of wicked fairies and a darkly alluring Fae Prince who is both her captor and protector. This enemies-to-lovers story, reminiscent of Rumpelstiltskin and Beauty and the Beast, blends dark fantasy romance with thrilling action and sizzling tension. Prepare for steamy encounters, brutal violence, and witty banter as Lyra uncovers the Prince’s secrets and fights for her survival in a world where gold bleeds and love is a dangerous game.

The Court that Bleeds Gold (The Gold Weaver)

4.3 / 1,225 ratings

Review The Court that Bleeds Gold

"The Court That Bleeds Gold" was a whirlwind! Going in, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, based on the mixed reviews, but I'm so glad I took the plunge. It definitely lives up to its "page-turner" billing; I found myself completely swept away by Zara Storm's world-building and the captivating romance between Eleanor and Ruskin. The blend of dark fantasy, action, and romance was expertly executed, creating a story that felt both familiar and refreshingly original.

The Rumpelstiltskin and Beauty and the Beast influences are clear, but Storm puts her own unique spin on these classic tales, creating a narrative that's both thrilling and emotionally resonant. The initial slow burn was a bit of a tease, leaving me wanting more from the dynamic between Eleanor and Ruskin, and honestly, the slow start almost made me put it down. But that slow burn exploded into an inferno of emotion, a captivating dance of power, mistrust, and undeniable attraction. The tension between them is palpable, constantly shifting from fiery conflict to moments of surprising tenderness, keeping me completely on the edge of my seat.

Eleanor, our strong-willed heroine, is a fascinating character. While some readers found her frustrating at times, especially her quickness to blame Ruskin and the fae for situations she partly created, I appreciated her spirit and resilience. Her determination to escape her predetermined fate and her sharp wit make her a compelling protagonist, even when her impulsive nature leads to trouble. She's far from perfect, and that's what makes her so relatable. She learns and grows throughout the story, and I found her journey to be both engaging and rewarding.

Ruskin, the brooding Fae Prince, is equally compelling, though perhaps a little more enigmatic. His complex character is a masterclass in "tragic hero," a captivating mix of brutality and vulnerability. The mystery surrounding his past and his motivations kept me guessing until the very end. The "enemies-to-lovers" trope is perfectly executed here, their interactions filled with sharp banter and simmering tension that slowly gives way to a deeper connection.

The supporting cast also deserves praise; they were far from one-dimensional. They added depth and complexity to the world, making it feel vibrant and alive. While some plot points felt a bit predictable at times, the overall story was well-paced and engaging, and I never felt bored.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the typos. Several reviewers mentioned them, and yes, I noticed a few as well. However, they were minor and didn't detract significantly from my overall enjoyment of the book. For me, the strength of the story and the compelling characters far outweighed these minor editing issues. Ultimately, "The Court That Bleeds Gold" is a captivating read that left me eager to dive into the next installment. It's a dark, thrilling, and romantic journey that I highly recommend to fans of the genre.