The Girl in the Tower: How Ariadne Was Born

Once upon a time… I had this spark of an idea for a Rapunzel retelling.

At first, I imagined something short and sweet—a little fairy tale nibble, just enough to leave a bit of stardust on your heart. But I didn’t want to tell the same old “Let down your hair” tale. I wanted something… different. Something magical. Something that shimmered with starlight and whispered of lost realms and forgotten legacies.

And that’s when Ariadne was born—woven from moonlight and myth, from a love so ancient it shaped the stars. She’s not your typical princess. Her silver braid, spun from celestial magic, isn’t just enchanted—it’s sacred. Uncut, untamed, and unlike anything the world has seen… except in one prophecy.

Which brings me to Cassian.

Cassian was never meant to leave the Temple of Silence. He’s a Guardian of Knowledge—stoic, devoted, a man bound to books and prophecies, not people. Until one fateful scroll leads him to the mortal realm… and to a tower cloaked in stardust.

And to her.

Originally, Once Upon a Silver Strand was meant to be a novella. A quiet, powerful love story tucked inside a lonely tower. But the moment I finished it, I knew something: Ariadne and Cassian weren’t done. Their story was only beginning. So I wrote a bonus chapter—one that offers a glimpse into what lies ahead.

This isn’t a “happily ever after”… not yet. It’s a “happy for now.” A starlit pause before the next chapter of their journey—a full-length novel that’s currently in the works (and full of secrets I can’t wait to share!).

What’s your favorite fairy tale? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to know!

✨ Once Upon a Silver Strand releases Friday, July 25.

Get ready to fall into the stars…