“Nowadays, people call me Sugarplum because I have the same delightful quality as these fruits. I’m deliciously flavored, and I taste different every time.”
― Rebecca F. Kenney, A Court of Sugar and Spice
A Court of Sugar and Spice is a book that immediately lets you know what kind of experience you’re in for. This is a dark, Nutcracker inspired retelling. The overall story is genuinely interesting, layered, and imaginative — but this is absolutely not a book for readers who shy away from spice. The balance leans heavily toward heat, with roughly a 40/60 split between spice and story, and it fully embraces that identity.
Familiar Fairytale Elements With a Dark Twist
Kenney takes familiar fairytale concepts and reshapes them into something darker, more sensual, and more adult. The worldbuilding is immersive without being overwhelming, and the story keeps unfolding in ways that make you curious about what’s coming next. Even with the high spice content, there is a clear narrative thread driving the plot forward, which made the book feel purposeful rather than indulgent for indulgence’s sake.
The spice in this book is plentiful and explicit, but it’s also woven directly into the story and character dynamics. It isn’t random or out of place — it reflects power, desire, and
emotional tension between the characters. If spice-heavy Romantasy is your thing, this book delivers in a big way. If it isn’t, this is one you’ll want to skip entirely, because the heat level is non-negotiable.
Final Thoughts
Overall, A Court of Sugar and Spice is a compelling, spicy read with an engaging story underneath it all. It knows exactly what it wants to be and commits fully to that vision. For readers who enjoy dark retellings, fantasy romance, and unapologetically spicy storytelling, this book is likely to be a hit.
Please note, Check the TWs for the book, as there really is some dark elements.
Are you into Dark Romantasy?
Hazel Harbor Books 
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