A search for a suitor. An inescapable curse. A love that overcomes even magic. Everyone in the kingdom knows the tale of their cursed princess, doomed to fall into an eternal slumber when she turns nineteen. As Princess Alyona's birthday approaches, her parents are determined to find her a suitable match. After all, only a kiss will break the inevitable curse, and no one kisses the princess but her prince. Unfortunately for all concerned, the competition to win the princess's heart has done nothing but discourage Alyona on the notions of romance. With only her bodyguard for company, she finds comfort in the one thing she does love-dance. Nikolai, the son of the palace cook, is the last person Alyona expected to find guarding her. Her childhood best friend is different now that he's back from the military. All grown up and more gorgeous-and frustrating-than anyone she's ever met. Their connection is undeniable, but so is the law. He can't be in the running to be her suitor, to break her curse. Princess Alyona must marry someone of noble blood, even if she's never met a prince who can dance like Nikolai. With the parade of nobles going through the palace, and her parents in a panic over her fateful, upcoming birthday, Princess Alyona knows she's running out of time. But how can she choose between the kingdom she loves, and her own heart? Can true love's kiss really conquer all? The Cursed Beauty is a standalone retelling of the traditional Russian story of Sleeping Beauty. Set in the fairy tale world of Skazka, this full length novel is for fans of bachelorette competitions, forbidden bodyguard/princess romance, forced proximity, and all the cozy fantasy feels. ***Each book in the Skazka Fairy Tales series can be read on its own and in any order. Happily ever after guaranteed!