Rapunzel's Gambit

By: Mary Mecham

Narrated by: Talon David

Some princesses would rather be the villain than the damsel in distress.

Desperate to rid his kingdom of a troublesome dragon, King Harrigan offers his daughter’s hand in marriage to any man who can slay the beast, but Rapunzel refuses to be pawned off. Deciding that a life of crime is preferable to wedding some power-hungry suitor, Rapunzel fakes her own kidnapping and joins forces with the cunning dragon plaguing her own kingdom.

Together, they plot a grand scheme that would amass them both riches beyond their wildest dreams. As the lure of a reward for the princess’s safe return attracts men ensnared by greed and Rapunzel’s flirtations, the would-be heroes soon become the ones in need of rescue atop a tower only accessible by dragonback. But as her alliance with the dragon grows more precarious and dangerous, Rapunzel is forced to question whether she’s trusted the wrong side.

Amidst the chaos, Griffin, the humble but brilliant squire, emerges as an unexpected ally. His quick wit and resourcefulness stand in stark contrast to the arrogant knights he serves, and Rapunzel can’t help but take notice. On the chessboard of fate, the swindler princess of Rookwyn must make her own moves with every calculated gambit and soon realizes.

The real game was never about knights, kings, and queens, but about how a mere pawn could become a legend.

Rapunzel’s Gambit is a no spice, diabolical fairytale retelling packed with villain vibes, a dragon/princess con artist duo, and banter that will have you laughing out loud. Join a diabolical princess on her daring swindles in this part of All That Glitters—a 12-book series brimming with Tales of Treasure and True Love. Each book stands alone and is written by a different author, so pick your next adventure and remember…not all that glitters is gold!

©2025 Mary Mecham (P)2025 Mary Mecham

Fresh Rupunzel Retelling

I throughly enjoyed this story. Great fantasy! I also enjoyed that I could listen to this on my car stereo with my family.

Great retelling of Rapunzel

Bravo, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It has been quite awhile since a book has made me laugh and gasp as much as this book did. It’s my first Mary Mecham novel but definitely won’t be my last.

Compelling and Clean

Finally - a story that has a swoon worthy dragon and female main character that don’t have to lower their calibre to cussing. And an added bonus of the fact that they also not having “corn” and coitus singularly on the brain! These characters have depth; the story has high stakes; and did I mention the swoon worthiness of the dragon! Well done, Mary!!! Cannot wait to read more from this author!

Loved the MMCS and their personalities

I've always loved books with banter and characters with noble hearts. But I also love how realistic Rapunzel is she has dark parts to her as we all do. But she will stop and reflect on her actions even when it takes longer then we'd like. She makes the right decision in the end. And Polyx. He is everything I want to be. Truly being brave and doing good no matter who bats an eye. Thank you Ms. Mecham. I personally loved this story and will try your other work as well

Deliciously daring and funny!

Talon David does a fantastic job with bringing a sassy and snarky Rapunzel to life! And Rapunzel does a fantastic job of stressing everyone out! Her banter and jokes with the dragon Pollox is perfection. And the twists and turns keep you gasping and giggling the whole way through!