The Bear of Rosethorn Ring is where, I think, the world of Once Upon a Twist Tales hits its stride. The Bear of Rosethorn Ring is book 4 in the series so far, following Marita and Diamond, reunited identical twins, as they go on the hunt to find their missing father. It’s important to read at least Spindle Dreams and Diamond to fully understand this book in the series.

Ratings for The Bear of Rosethorn Ring

Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4.5/5

When Marita and Diamond’s father disappears, they have startlingly different reactions. Marita is bitter, angry at her father for his gambling addiction and all the pain he’s caused her. Diamond, meanwhile, is hopeful, having never actually met him before this week. She chooses to believe the best in her father because she believes no one is worth giving up on. I loved seeing the sisters bond and grow together. The villain of the story was funny and definitely one that fit within a fairytale setting, a silly as he may be. All in all, a great installment in the series.

The message ties into worldview because of the emphasis on redemption. Marita is bitter and unforgiving and angry, but she doesn’t hold onto that and let it consume her. I liked that the characters more consistently seek God in prayer. I would have liked to have seen an emphasis on how Jesus can change lives, but I think the message stands firm as is.

Overall Thoughts

All in all, a great read and I’m looking forward to seeing the next in the series! If you haven’t read the others, there is The Rose and the Balloon: a Beauty and the Beast retelling (mostly standalone), Spindle Dreams: Sleeping Beauty retelling (Marita’s story), and Diamond: A Rapunzel Story.