A twist on Rapunzel. Lots of men have turned up at Gothel’s tower wanting to “rescue” the kidnapped princess, but Lucien, the youngest prince of Lombargy, is more interested in getting to know Gothel and discovering her reasons for kidnapping.

I really enjoyed this as a retelling! I’d have liked it even more if it hadn’t leaned quite so much into the typical happily-ever-after ending, but, hey, minor quibble.

“You seem to be under the mistaken impression that I’m innocent of the crimes I’m accused of,” said Gothel. “I’m not. Go away now. I don’t have time to deal with you.”
“You can’t -- you can’t kidnap princesses,” said Lucien, still trying to catch his breath.
“Of course you can!” Gothel said scornfully. “It’s not easy, naturally, but it’s very possible.” ( )