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A Fairy Godmother #1
Wish of the Wicked
Everyone knows a fairy godmother helped Cinderella get to the ball. But no one knows why.
For centuries, Farrow's family-the Entente-have been magical advisors to the Queen. Their wisdom and foresight kept the Thirteen Queendoms in harmony. Until a new queen, Magrit, takes power, outlaws magic, and executes the Entente. Only Farrow survives, with her magic warped beyond repair. She can now use it only to fulfill the feeble wishes of commoners.
Since that day, Farrow has dreamed of revenge. The one way to reach the queen is through her son, Prince Mather, who is nearing the age when he must select a bride. When a special ball in his honor is announced, Farrow sees her opportunity. All it will take is a young woman named Cinderella who dreams of true love. With one night, one chance to reclaim her magic and destroy the queen, Farrow will stop at nothing.
Set in a lush, dangerous world rooted in our beloved fairy tales, New York Times bestselling author Danielle Paige launches a brand-new Fairy Godmother origin story full of intrigue, magic, and romance.
For centuries, Farrow's family-the Entente-have been magical advisors to the Queen. Their wisdom and foresight kept the Thirteen Queendoms in harmony. Until a new queen, Magrit, takes power, outlaws magic, and executes the Entente. Only Farrow survives, with her magic warped beyond repair. She can now use it only to fulfill the feeble wishes of commoners.
Since that day, Farrow has dreamed of revenge. The one way to reach the queen is through her son, Prince Mather, who is nearing the age when he must select a bride. When a special ball in his honor is announced, Farrow sees her opportunity. All it will take is a young woman named Cinderella who dreams of true love. With one night, one chance to reclaim her magic and destroy the queen, Farrow will stop at nothing.
Set in a lush, dangerous world rooted in our beloved fairy tales, New York Times bestselling author Danielle Paige launches a brand-new Fairy Godmother origin story full of intrigue, magic, and romance.
485 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2023
127 people are currently reading
6887 people want to read
About the author
Danielle Paige
34 books5,599 followersDanielle lives in NY. Before turning to YA, she worked in television & was nominated for several Daytime Emmy's. Dorothy Must Die is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
November 2, 2023
A unique Cinderella reimagining with elements of Sleeping Beauty and even some inspiration from the Salem Witch Trials, Wish of the Wicked is told from the fairy godmother’s point of view and begins when she is young. Farrow’s life takes on a whole new trajectory when all of the other members of the Entente are seemingly killed, and vengeance becomes Farrow’s sole goal.
I’ve read and watched a bunch of fairy tale retellings, but I haven’t read many from a fairy godmother’s perspective. I have to say, this story was not what I expected, but not in a bad way! It feels so unique and fresh while still maintaining some of the core pieces of Cinderella. Paige seamlessly weaves so many different elements from Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty with new and original characters and plot elements, and it makes for an entertaining read.
The story has a unique and intriguing premise, and I enjoyed learning more about the Entente’s, their relationships with each other and the Fates, and how they’ve evolved and survived. And the plot has so many twists that I didn’t see coming! I love that. It is not a predictable story in many ways, and it was exciting to see the story take so many unexpected (and a few really shocking) turns.
The characters are fantastic, too, and I especially enjoyed Farrow’s character arc. She is a compelling protagonist who has gone through a lot, and to see her seek vengeance, learn more about her loved ones, work with old and new allies, and reexamine her relationships and goals shows how complex and layered she is. The secondary characters are intriguing as well, as are the themes of sisterhood, family, and standing up for what is right even if it goes against those you love. I think this is especially noticeable when Farrow reunites with some of those she thought she lost. Years have passed, and many of her family don’t have the same beliefs and moral compass Farrow has. It’s interesting to see how she deals with so many complicated and tenuous situations, not only with her enemies but also with those she loves.
The only part of the story I didn’t love was the romance. I know, shocking, right? I’m not a fan of love triangles, and this one did not work for me. I like both of Farrow’s love interests, and I’m hoping that the love triangle resolves itself before it becomes a major part of the story.
I would definitely recommend the book to readers who like twisted fairy tales or fairy tale reimaginings. It’s a fast-paced and immersive story that I thoroughly enjoyed. Special thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury YA for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
I’ve read and watched a bunch of fairy tale retellings, but I haven’t read many from a fairy godmother’s perspective. I have to say, this story was not what I expected, but not in a bad way! It feels so unique and fresh while still maintaining some of the core pieces of Cinderella. Paige seamlessly weaves so many different elements from Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty with new and original characters and plot elements, and it makes for an entertaining read.
The story has a unique and intriguing premise, and I enjoyed learning more about the Entente’s, their relationships with each other and the Fates, and how they’ve evolved and survived. And the plot has so many twists that I didn’t see coming! I love that. It is not a predictable story in many ways, and it was exciting to see the story take so many unexpected (and a few really shocking) turns.
The characters are fantastic, too, and I especially enjoyed Farrow’s character arc. She is a compelling protagonist who has gone through a lot, and to see her seek vengeance, learn more about her loved ones, work with old and new allies, and reexamine her relationships and goals shows how complex and layered she is. The secondary characters are intriguing as well, as are the themes of sisterhood, family, and standing up for what is right even if it goes against those you love. I think this is especially noticeable when Farrow reunites with some of those she thought she lost. Years have passed, and many of her family don’t have the same beliefs and moral compass Farrow has. It’s interesting to see how she deals with so many complicated and tenuous situations, not only with her enemies but also with those she loves.
The only part of the story I didn’t love was the romance. I know, shocking, right? I’m not a fan of love triangles, and this one did not work for me. I like both of Farrow’s love interests, and I’m hoping that the love triangle resolves itself before it becomes a major part of the story.
I would definitely recommend the book to readers who like twisted fairy tales or fairy tale reimaginings. It’s a fast-paced and immersive story that I thoroughly enjoyed. Special thanks to NetGalley and Bloomsbury YA for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
August 5, 2023
Too many things didn't make any sense.
August 8, 2023
Ack, this was sooo good!
When Danielle Paige announced years ago that she had a new series (with a fairytale retelling even) in the works I immediately started stalking NetGalley to see when I could get my hands on it.
I pre-ordered the second my local indie had an ISBN for it.
I may have cried a bit when I got approved for this and threw out all my adult responsibilities to get lost in this story.
Started off a little slow setting up this new world, but when she gets going, boy howdy does she get going! I hate that the next book is so far away, but I would still 100% recommend you snag this in November!
It's a Cinderella retelling from the perspective of the fairy godmother.
The twist? It starts when said fairy godmother is just a child and we get to see her grow and find herself. This was such an amazing take on a well known tale. Danielle lived up to all my expectations!
Much love to NetGalley, Bloomsbury USA Children's Books, Bloomsbury YA, and lady Paige herself for not making me wait till November to enjoy this.
When Danielle Paige announced years ago that she had a new series (with a fairytale retelling even) in the works I immediately started stalking NetGalley to see when I could get my hands on it.
I pre-ordered the second my local indie had an ISBN for it.
I may have cried a bit when I got approved for this and threw out all my adult responsibilities to get lost in this story.
Started off a little slow setting up this new world, but when she gets going, boy howdy does she get going! I hate that the next book is so far away, but I would still 100% recommend you snag this in November!
It's a Cinderella retelling from the perspective of the fairy godmother.
The twist? It starts when said fairy godmother is just a child and we get to see her grow and find herself. This was such an amazing take on a well known tale. Danielle lived up to all my expectations!
Much love to NetGalley, Bloomsbury USA Children's Books, Bloomsbury YA, and lady Paige herself for not making me wait till November to enjoy this.
January 11, 2024
I thought that I was going to like this book!! Between the plot and the gorgeous art cover, it looked really cool. But oh goodness do I have thoughts! *Minor Spoilers*
Did aaaaaanyone edit this book? There are so many inconsistencies! Like one moment Farrow is holding her wand, then half a page later mentions how she should have picked up her wand instead of the rock in her hand. There was also a really confusing moment when a character is talking to Farrow but starts talking bout themself in a third person. So I believe it was supposed to be a different character that also starts with the same beginning letter. You’ll know when on that scene. And there were a ton of plot holes.
I cannot express how much REPEATING occurs in this book! The majority of the prologue is basically word for word again 50 or so pages in. It would have been better if it just started on Chapter 1. And we get it Farrow! You are Entente and are seeking revenge on the Queen. This is mentioned almost literally every other page. I sighed a lot throughout this book…
The intended romance at the end is one that I’m not really a big fan of and would have rather it be someone else.
There is going to be a sequel. TBD if I will read it!
Did aaaaaanyone edit this book? There are so many inconsistencies! Like one moment Farrow is holding her wand, then half a page later mentions how she should have picked up her wand instead of the rock in her hand. There was also a really confusing moment when a character is talking to Farrow but starts talking bout themself in a third person. So I believe it was supposed to be a different character that also starts with the same beginning letter. You’ll know when on that scene. And there were a ton of plot holes.
I cannot express how much REPEATING occurs in this book! The majority of the prologue is basically word for word again 50 or so pages in. It would have been better if it just started on Chapter 1. And we get it Farrow! You are Entente and are seeking revenge on the Queen. This is mentioned almost literally every other page. I sighed a lot throughout this book…
The intended romance at the end is one that I’m not really a big fan of and would have rather it be someone else.
There is going to be a sequel. TBD if I will read it!
October 12, 2023
This was unbalanced for me. There were a lot of great ideas but they were poorly executed. The Entente was this super powerful, established for generations, organization and they were brought down in one night? The creepy doppelganger school was an interesting concept but the follow-through on it is weird. They wait to have them bond for so long but how are they supposed to be insta-buddies at young adulthood when they could have been growing and experiencing the kinds of bonding, life-lasting friendships and trusting relationships that come from growing up together. I get the author had to do it this way because of the sex angle but as a concept, I like the creepy doppelganger school but I think it is too focused on the sex play-thing angle and it could have been better.
February 21, 2025
This was fun!
If you've been missing the YA retelling days, this is such a good one to pick up. It's got that super nostalgic, retelling feel while also bringing something new to the table by focusing on the "fairy godmothers".
On the critical side, I do feel like the book lost the plot a bit as the story continued, with certain points seemingly added just to keep up the retelling part of the story. The characters and their relationships all felt very one-dimensional, with the evil characters feeling (pardon the pun) cartoonishly wicked.
Even with my critiques, I found this to be an entertaining read and while I might not recommend it to everyone, I do think it's an enjoyable addition to the YA fantasy retelling genre.
If you've been missing the YA retelling days, this is such a good one to pick up. It's got that super nostalgic, retelling feel while also bringing something new to the table by focusing on the "fairy godmothers".
On the critical side, I do feel like the book lost the plot a bit as the story continued, with certain points seemingly added just to keep up the retelling part of the story. The characters and their relationships all felt very one-dimensional, with the evil characters feeling (pardon the pun) cartoonishly wicked.
Even with my critiques, I found this to be an entertaining read and while I might not recommend it to everyone, I do think it's an enjoyable addition to the YA fantasy retelling genre.
December 13, 2023
"Bari lifted her skirt, revealing that her legs were completely composed of the same kind of beetles"
December 16, 2023
Solid 3.5. Will want to read the next one.
July 17, 2024
SPOILERS!!
DNF. i did not enjoy this book at all. the concept was very interesting and as someone who loves fairytale retellings i was looking forward to this book but i was so disappointed.
first of all, the writing was just not it. there was so much telling instead of showing. the author just tells you that farrow is angry and that she wants revenge. i think an actual sentence is like “i felt rage go through me” or something. what is this? i can’t emotionally connect with the character because you’re just telling me how she feels. she feels angry, she feels sad. what does that look like??? another thing with the writing is a lot of sentences feel clunky. most of the time it makes sense, but it just doesn’t feel right. the pacing is also strange. it feels like there’s too much fluff, and each concept that could be interesting is just a blip in time.
another thing that irked me to no end is that all the sisters survived. hello???? the only ones who actually died are iolanta and hecate. that just feels like lazy writing to me. and, back to the telling instead of showing, the initial loss of all of them doesn’t even impact me because i’m just being told how she feels. i think that if just south had survived, i could’ve enjoyed it but the second they all were alive i wanted to scream.
i really wanted to like this book. i could have, if either the story had been better or the writing had been better, but with both i just couldn’t do it. it actually inspired me to keep writing my own story so i could do better than this.
DNF. i did not enjoy this book at all. the concept was very interesting and as someone who loves fairytale retellings i was looking forward to this book but i was so disappointed.
first of all, the writing was just not it. there was so much telling instead of showing. the author just tells you that farrow is angry and that she wants revenge. i think an actual sentence is like “i felt rage go through me” or something. what is this? i can’t emotionally connect with the character because you’re just telling me how she feels. she feels angry, she feels sad. what does that look like??? another thing with the writing is a lot of sentences feel clunky. most of the time it makes sense, but it just doesn’t feel right. the pacing is also strange. it feels like there’s too much fluff, and each concept that could be interesting is just a blip in time.
another thing that irked me to no end is that all the sisters survived. hello???? the only ones who actually died are iolanta and hecate. that just feels like lazy writing to me. and, back to the telling instead of showing, the initial loss of all of them doesn’t even impact me because i’m just being told how she feels. i think that if just south had survived, i could’ve enjoyed it but the second they all were alive i wanted to scream.
i really wanted to like this book. i could have, if either the story had been better or the writing had been better, but with both i just couldn’t do it. it actually inspired me to keep writing my own story so i could do better than this.
February 22, 2024
Dorothy Must Die has been on my shelves for a few years already. I just never really read it. Don't worry. The book is in good company. I'm still buying more books than I can actually read. I'm trying to change the habit, but that's really hard! So, I only knew Paige from the duology she co-wrote with Kass Morgan. I quite enjoyed that one though and I also love fairytales and Cinderella especially. So, I was really curious about this one.
Yes, I agree with some reviews that the heroine in this story is making things endlessly more complicated than they should be. However, I also think I kinda understand why. Throughout the story we get to know her quite well, we're spending the entire story in her head after all. We get to know her morals, her personality, her values. And maybe she thinks she wants something, but already knows deep down that she doesn't actually want it. And that IS a complicated situation.
And the rest of the story does make up for the one, some might call it fatal, flaw in the plot. I like the world the author paints. I like how we're getting to know the Entente, how we see what they're doing and what their relationship with the Queen is like. I also like how we see what becomes of this world when the Queen decides to ignore the warnings and continues on the path she set herself on. And, of course, it's far from pretty.
I also quite like how the story of Cinderella is still very much there and recognizable as such, while the author adds so much of her own that we also never really know what is going to happen next. I wish we had seen a little more of Cinderella and the prince, of course, but mostly because they're both very intriguing characters. I'm certain we'll see more of them in the next novel, although I'm also really curious where this story will go. I'll patiently wait until the sequel is released.
Yes, I agree with some reviews that the heroine in this story is making things endlessly more complicated than they should be. However, I also think I kinda understand why. Throughout the story we get to know her quite well, we're spending the entire story in her head after all. We get to know her morals, her personality, her values. And maybe she thinks she wants something, but already knows deep down that she doesn't actually want it. And that IS a complicated situation.
And the rest of the story does make up for the one, some might call it fatal, flaw in the plot. I like the world the author paints. I like how we're getting to know the Entente, how we see what they're doing and what their relationship with the Queen is like. I also like how we see what becomes of this world when the Queen decides to ignore the warnings and continues on the path she set herself on. And, of course, it's far from pretty.
I also quite like how the story of Cinderella is still very much there and recognizable as such, while the author adds so much of her own that we also never really know what is going to happen next. I wish we had seen a little more of Cinderella and the prince, of course, but mostly because they're both very intriguing characters. I'm certain we'll see more of them in the next novel, although I'm also really curious where this story will go. I'll patiently wait until the sequel is released.
July 24, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)
Bit of a slow start for me (in part due to ARC formatting) but I enjoyed it once it picked up and the retelling elements met with the new story.
Bit of a slow start for me (in part due to ARC formatting) but I enjoyed it once it picked up and the retelling elements met with the new story.
January 2, 2024
This book was so good! The concept was brilliant and it was very well executed. I love how it gave us a story of the fairy godmother! The little snippets of romance were perfect for me as well!
July 12, 2023
If I had the power to grant wishes and wanted the queen dead, I would simply ask someone to wish the queen was dead.
---
This review is of an ARC of the book.
There were a lot of things I liked about this book. I liked the way different characters developed differently in response to events. I liked how the world wasn't black and white. But there were a few things that just really bothered me and significantly affected my enjoyment of the book.
Ages
- It was so hard to tell how old the main character was. At the beginning of the book, I guessed she was maybe 14. But then there was a 5 year time jump. And then another 5 year time jump. And her voice didn't change much after aging 10 years. We don't find out she's 18 (and so 8 or younger at the beginning) until page 150.
- I couldn't tell how old her sisters were either. We find out that Farrow is younger than Bari who is younger than Anantha at page 383.
Plot Holes
- Farrow assumes the Entente have all died but it's not clear why. The Entente were all "whisked away" at the same time. There were a ton of witnesses to this event. Did these all witnesses assume they had died and not disappeared and start these rumors? Did the queen start these rumors despite also claiming the Entente were still around? Were there no rumors and Farrow just made an absolutely wild assumption? No clue, it's not discussed.
- Farrow has an incredibly powerful magic that she and others make no real attempt to use to accomplish their goals. Maybe her magic isn't powerful enough to do that but if so, it's not something we see. The bounds of her magic are never really tested and every time they are tested it seems she has the ability to do what she needs. It really bothers me reading books where the magic is essentially a prop that serves the plot and we just pretend that it doesn't exist when it would mess with the plot.
---
This review is of an ARC of the book.
There were a lot of things I liked about this book. I liked the way different characters developed differently in response to events. I liked how the world wasn't black and white. But there were a few things that just really bothered me and significantly affected my enjoyment of the book.
Ages
- It was so hard to tell how old the main character was. At the beginning of the book, I guessed she was maybe 14. But then there was a 5 year time jump. And then another 5 year time jump. And her voice didn't change much after aging 10 years. We don't find out she's 18 (and so 8 or younger at the beginning) until page 150.
- I couldn't tell how old her sisters were either. We find out that Farrow is younger than Bari who is younger than Anantha at page 383.
Plot Holes
- Farrow assumes the Entente have all died but it's not clear why. The Entente were all "whisked away" at the same time. There were a ton of witnesses to this event. Did these all witnesses assume they had died and not disappeared and start these rumors? Did the queen start these rumors despite also claiming the Entente were still around? Were there no rumors and Farrow just made an absolutely wild assumption? No clue, it's not discussed.
- Farrow has an incredibly powerful magic that she and others make no real attempt to use to accomplish their goals. Maybe her magic isn't powerful enough to do that but if so, it's not something we see. The bounds of her magic are never really tested and every time they are tested it seems she has the ability to do what she needs. It really bothers me reading books where the magic is essentially a prop that serves the plot and we just pretend that it doesn't exist when it would mess with the plot.
November 5, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley for an e-book in exchange for an honest review.
"I promise she will die when the time is right. And if you want, you can even light the match. But for now, I need a little more patience from you, Farrow."
TROPES
- Cinderella retelling
- Fairy Godmother POV + backstory
- Inspiration from Sleeping Beauty and the Salem Witch Trials
- Sisterhood, integrity and family
- Vengeance, revenge and justice
- Love triangle
- The Fates; Past, Present and Future
I enjoyed this fresh perspective of a Cinderella retelling, with small aspects of Sleeping Beauty and inspiration dawn from The Salem Witchcraft Trials. This story is told through the perspective of the Fairy Godmother and provides a backstory and insights into her life growing up. We have the Fates; Past, Present and Future and they are all names of goddesses we know from myths (Hecate, Iolanta and Galatea). We have a love triangle, some revenge and justice, and the bonds of sisterhood.
This is a clever story with a unique twist on a classic fairytale retelling. I enjoyed the sisterhood aspect of the witches, and I enjoyed the revenge storyline (no on is surprised).
I really wanted to love this story — the cover is beautiful and the premise sounded strong. I think it was a pacing issue for me, as It started out quite slow and then picked up, and went back and forth in this way many times. Unfortunately, it didn’t work and made me lose interest as a reader. I also didn’t quite connect to any of the characters—they felt very one dimensional to me—and the romance felt a bit forced. I also felt like there were trying to be too many draws and inspiration from other stories, and it was just a bit too much and all over the place.
"I promise she will die when the time is right. And if you want, you can even light the match. But for now, I need a little more patience from you, Farrow."
TROPES
- Cinderella retelling
- Fairy Godmother POV + backstory
- Inspiration from Sleeping Beauty and the Salem Witch Trials
- Sisterhood, integrity and family
- Vengeance, revenge and justice
- Love triangle
- The Fates; Past, Present and Future
I enjoyed this fresh perspective of a Cinderella retelling, with small aspects of Sleeping Beauty and inspiration dawn from The Salem Witchcraft Trials. This story is told through the perspective of the Fairy Godmother and provides a backstory and insights into her life growing up. We have the Fates; Past, Present and Future and they are all names of goddesses we know from myths (Hecate, Iolanta and Galatea). We have a love triangle, some revenge and justice, and the bonds of sisterhood.
This is a clever story with a unique twist on a classic fairytale retelling. I enjoyed the sisterhood aspect of the witches, and I enjoyed the revenge storyline (no on is surprised).
I really wanted to love this story — the cover is beautiful and the premise sounded strong. I think it was a pacing issue for me, as It started out quite slow and then picked up, and went back and forth in this way many times. Unfortunately, it didn’t work and made me lose interest as a reader. I also didn’t quite connect to any of the characters—they felt very one dimensional to me—and the romance felt a bit forced. I also felt like there were trying to be too many draws and inspiration from other stories, and it was just a bit too much and all over the place.
January 9, 2024
I don’t really know how to feel about this… 3.5 stars.
It was a touch too dark for me, but that was what it advertised, so I can’t complain. I think that if the characters were more endearing or if it didn’t end on a cliffhanger it would be better.
I thought it was a pretty interesting take on a retelling. Cinderella was a nice character, but she didn’t seem to do much. And I wasn’t really fond of what happens with the prince. Incorporating the fates was cool, but the worldbuilding didn’t make sense I feel like there was a lot of plot holes. I really am not fond of love triangles so it annoyed me, especially since it’s not even resolved at the end.
As for content warnings… definitely some romance to avoid, the end of Chapter 25 and whole of Chapter 26 can be skipped entirely in that area (nothing to the highest extreme but still not pure). There’s a lot of violence, the most would be a description of someone being burned.
It was a touch too dark for me, but that was what it advertised, so I can’t complain. I think that if the characters were more endearing or if it didn’t end on a cliffhanger it would be better.
I thought it was a pretty interesting take on a retelling. Cinderella was a nice character, but she didn’t seem to do much. And I wasn’t really fond of what happens with the prince. Incorporating the fates was cool, but the worldbuilding didn’t make sense I feel like there was a lot of plot holes. I really am not fond of love triangles so it annoyed me, especially since it’s not even resolved at the end.
As for content warnings… definitely some romance to avoid, the end of Chapter 25 and whole of Chapter 26 can be skipped entirely in that area (nothing to the highest extreme but still not pure). There’s a lot of violence, the most would be a description of someone being burned.
February 20, 2024
I really wanted to like this book, but there was just too many things I struggled with. These included:
*Repetition -the prologue is repeated verbatim in a later chapter. Why is this necessary? Also, the main character couldn't stop saying that she wanted to kill the queen.
*Love Interest -there are entire chapters worth of build up to get the main character into the palace to serve as his Coterie (life-long best friend and sexual partner). She spends about an hour with him, or less, before leaving the palace entirely. She later encounters him again, and she somehow magically knows that he's spent the time since their last meeting trying to make up for his evil mother's misdeeds.
*Plot holes -there are too many to name.
The premise of this book is great. I just feel like the finished product did not live up to its potential. This book was simply not for me.
*Repetition -the prologue is repeated verbatim in a later chapter. Why is this necessary? Also, the main character couldn't stop saying that she wanted to kill the queen.
*Love Interest -there are entire chapters worth of build up to get the main character into the palace to serve as his Coterie (life-long best friend and sexual partner). She spends about an hour with him, or less, before leaving the palace entirely. She later encounters him again, and she somehow magically knows that he's spent the time since their last meeting trying to make up for his evil mother's misdeeds.
*Plot holes -there are too many to name.
The premise of this book is great. I just feel like the finished product did not live up to its potential. This book was simply not for me.
Want to read
May 6, 2021Cant wait!
February 1, 2024
a fantastic compelling fairytale retelling with a spin on the Cinderella, diving into the beginnings of the fairy Godmother.
I enjoyed the revenge aspects of the plot and as a romance fan, the little love triangle was cute.
Though I'm absolutely rooting for Farrow and the Prince!
Can't wait for Book 2!!!
I enjoyed the revenge aspects of the plot and as a romance fan, the little love triangle was cute.
Though I'm absolutely rooting for Farrow and the Prince!
Can't wait for Book 2!!!
October 21, 2023
For centuries the magical Entente, under the guidance of the Fates, were advisors to all the queens across the thirteen Queendoms. Until Queen Magrit is crowned. She outlaws all magic and executes the Fate of the future, Hecate. Hecate's young protégé, Farrow, watches in dismay as the Entente and the Queens guard engage in deadly battle. Unable to call on her magic Farrow is forced to grow up among humans thinking she is the last Entente. Ten years pass and Farrow finds her way into the palace to try to avenge her sisters. But a young prince stands in her way and she finds herself torn between her heart and her vengeance.
A Cinderella retelling, this story is told through the eyes of Farrow, or as we know her the Fairy Godmother. I was really drawn to the premise of this book. And while I did enjoy the book I felt like the romance aspect of it seemed forced. With the prince it was like she was conditioned to love him because she was taught to and with South it just seemed like an attempt on both sides to cling to childhood memories. I feel like maybe the story would have been better without it. The vengeance, the corruption of the Entente, an evil queen, and poor Cinderella was more than enough to make it compelling. That being said there was a lot left unanswered with that ending and I cannot wait for the next book. Also there was a little hint with one of the sisters becoming Maleficent and I wonder if that will be addressed in the next book or a separate one.
Rating 3.5 stars
*I received a review copy from NetGalley for my voluntary and honest review
A Cinderella retelling, this story is told through the eyes of Farrow, or as we know her the Fairy Godmother. I was really drawn to the premise of this book. And while I did enjoy the book I felt like the romance aspect of it seemed forced. With the prince it was like she was conditioned to love him because she was taught to and with South it just seemed like an attempt on both sides to cling to childhood memories. I feel like maybe the story would have been better without it. The vengeance, the corruption of the Entente, an evil queen, and poor Cinderella was more than enough to make it compelling. That being said there was a lot left unanswered with that ending and I cannot wait for the next book. Also there was a little hint with one of the sisters becoming Maleficent and I wonder if that will be addressed in the next book or a separate one.
Rating 3.5 stars
*I received a review copy from NetGalley for my voluntary and honest review
July 14, 2023
I was given an ARC by Netgalley & Bloomsbury YA in exchange for an honest review.
I have loved Danielle’s writing since her “ Dorothy must die” series and when I heard she was doing a fairy godmother origin story with a spin I was excited. First off the book started very slow I wasn’t fully interested until about 50% through. There were a couple of confusing plot holes and characters. But overall the end redeemed it self.
I have loved Danielle’s writing since her “ Dorothy must die” series and when I heard she was doing a fairy godmother origin story with a spin I was excited. First off the book started very slow I wasn’t fully interested until about 50% through. There were a couple of confusing plot holes and characters. But overall the end redeemed it self.
February 17, 2025
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I believe that it delivers its premise well with some amazing twists and turns. On the other hand, I feel that the characterisation of certain individuals are at times a little muddled and confusing, and the same with the magic system. I did enjoy this book and I am intrigued about the sequel.
I did not find the characters particularly likeable, although I did appreciate Farrow and South more as they developed. I did also appreciate the twists that the Entente were alive and that Galatea, Bari and Amantha became the evil stepmother and stepsisters. I understood the change for Bari and Amantha as the seeds were already sown from childhood, but Galatea was a surprise to me. I understood that the Entente had witnessed the deaths of Hecate at the hands of the Queen and placed into effective exile and separated across the thirteen Queendoms. I also understood that the Entente already viewed themselves as superior to humans. However, with how Les Soeurs had highlighted the importance of non-violent action and kindness over pain with magic, I found Galatea's transformation almost unbelievable. I just felt that she was not effectively developed in the earlier chapters to provide the payoff when she made this shift. I understand the impact of losing Iolanta and Hecate, but it just felt like after their deaths she went completely against what the two of them would have wished for. I also felt that it was extremely hypocritical that she refused to call Ella Cinderella because it was a cruel nickname, but then essentially took over her house after the kindness of the Grays and treated their orphaned daughter like a maid. I also felt that whilst Bari and Amantha had a more deserved transformation, they were impressionable children with a tendency towards bullying and viewing the Entente as superior, I still felt that Bari killing the Grays felt slightly out of nowhere and didn't have the time it deserved. I hope that the second book will explain their perspectives more.
However, I thought that Cinderella gained a level of complexity that she did not possess in the initial fairytale, and I liked the twist that Farrow and the Prince were actually the ones in love. I also found that the Queen was really well-written and completely malicious and evil, which made her a villain you loved to hate because of how conniving she was. I also liked Prince Mather as a character, and I really enjoyed following his development. I did, however, wonder if the Queen had used the tunnels with Queen Meena, how she did not think to block them off to prevent Mather from escaping, given how desperate she was to keep him confined to the palace. It could have been something that she missed, but she did not appear the type to miss much. I was not initially sure about Farrow, but I loved following her through her life and moving away from vengeance towards love. I found her to be an interesting, complex character with a lot of depth.
Another issue I had was it felt like the magic system worked as convenient for the plot. Farrow's magic ebbed and flowed throughout the book and it just felt a little strange about how it worked. For example, it was established that wishes that held strong feelings had additional potency and lasted longer, if not indefinitely. Yet, the plates which had broken remained fixed, and I did not believe this was anyone's greatest desire. And the animals who I would assume felt very strongly about not being human, would return to their animal forms at moonrise. Maybe there is a level of depth that I cannot see which would help if I reread the book, or maybe I missed a critical line somewhere, but it just felt a bit random. Moreover, whilst I liked South as a character, I found his relationship with Farrow a little messy. I did not love that he was an extra love interest for Farrow, it just felt a bit unnecessary and I would have preferred their relationship to be platonic. Especially because the Entente view themselves as sisters (and in this case brother and sister) it just felt a bit strange and confusing.
Overall, I did enjoy this book but I did find there to be a few decisions that I could not entirely follow or felt a bit random.
I did not find the characters particularly likeable, although I did appreciate Farrow and South more as they developed. I did also appreciate the twists that the Entente were alive and that Galatea, Bari and Amantha became the evil stepmother and stepsisters. I understood the change for Bari and Amantha as the seeds were already sown from childhood, but Galatea was a surprise to me. I understood that the Entente had witnessed the deaths of Hecate at the hands of the Queen and placed into effective exile and separated across the thirteen Queendoms. I also understood that the Entente already viewed themselves as superior to humans. However, with how Les Soeurs had highlighted the importance of non-violent action and kindness over pain with magic, I found Galatea's transformation almost unbelievable. I just felt that she was not effectively developed in the earlier chapters to provide the payoff when she made this shift. I understand the impact of losing Iolanta and Hecate, but it just felt like after their deaths she went completely against what the two of them would have wished for. I also felt that it was extremely hypocritical that she refused to call Ella Cinderella because it was a cruel nickname, but then essentially took over her house after the kindness of the Grays and treated their orphaned daughter like a maid. I also felt that whilst Bari and Amantha had a more deserved transformation, they were impressionable children with a tendency towards bullying and viewing the Entente as superior, I still felt that Bari killing the Grays felt slightly out of nowhere and didn't have the time it deserved. I hope that the second book will explain their perspectives more.
However, I thought that Cinderella gained a level of complexity that she did not possess in the initial fairytale, and I liked the twist that Farrow and the Prince were actually the ones in love. I also found that the Queen was really well-written and completely malicious and evil, which made her a villain you loved to hate because of how conniving she was. I also liked Prince Mather as a character, and I really enjoyed following his development. I did, however, wonder if the Queen had used the tunnels with Queen Meena, how she did not think to block them off to prevent Mather from escaping, given how desperate she was to keep him confined to the palace. It could have been something that she missed, but she did not appear the type to miss much. I was not initially sure about Farrow, but I loved following her through her life and moving away from vengeance towards love. I found her to be an interesting, complex character with a lot of depth.
Another issue I had was it felt like the magic system worked as convenient for the plot. Farrow's magic ebbed and flowed throughout the book and it just felt a little strange about how it worked. For example, it was established that wishes that held strong feelings had additional potency and lasted longer, if not indefinitely. Yet, the plates which had broken remained fixed, and I did not believe this was anyone's greatest desire. And the animals who I would assume felt very strongly about not being human, would return to their animal forms at moonrise. Maybe there is a level of depth that I cannot see which would help if I reread the book, or maybe I missed a critical line somewhere, but it just felt a bit random. Moreover, whilst I liked South as a character, I found his relationship with Farrow a little messy. I did not love that he was an extra love interest for Farrow, it just felt a bit unnecessary and I would have preferred their relationship to be platonic. Especially because the Entente view themselves as sisters (and in this case brother and sister) it just felt a bit strange and confusing.
Overall, I did enjoy this book but I did find there to be a few decisions that I could not entirely follow or felt a bit random.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2024
This book left me feeling super conflicted. For one, the plot summary on my copy is inaccurate and doesn’t occur until the last fifty or so pages of the book, leaving me waiting for a climax that had been advertised as the main plot. This is a different plot summary than the one on Goodreads, so I’m assuming more updated copies have a more appropriate blurb.
The concept of WotW (specifically on my copy) was so interesting for me; an antihero-esque Godmother who is manipulating Cinderella to kill the queen. That is not this story. This story is so slow at certain points and at others goes way too fast for any of it to sink in. The timeline is disjointed and the characters are annoying, and I love a good character arc, especially one where a character gets worse before they get better, but this gave me nothing. Everyone was stagnant and their personalities were not truly shaped by their experiences.
Now for the spoilery/more specific section:
The book I imagined this would be was so much better in my head than what it turned out to be. I have so many ideas for changes and yet this is what I got. If anyone wants to script doctor this with me please comment. Pretty cover though.
The concept of WotW (specifically on my copy) was so interesting for me; an antihero-esque Godmother who is manipulating Cinderella to kill the queen. That is not this story. This story is so slow at certain points and at others goes way too fast for any of it to sink in. The timeline is disjointed and the characters are annoying, and I love a good character arc, especially one where a character gets worse before they get better, but this gave me nothing. Everyone was stagnant and their personalities were not truly shaped by their experiences.
Now for the spoilery/more specific section:
The book I imagined this would be was so much better in my head than what it turned out to be. I have so many ideas for changes and yet this is what I got. If anyone wants to script doctor this with me please comment. Pretty cover though.
March 17, 2024
Wish of The Wicked by Danielle Paige is a captivating novel that delves into a dark and twisted retelling of the classic Cinderella story, focusing on the fairy godmother character. I was blown away when the author weaves a tale that centers around Farrow, the last surviving member of the magical Entente family, who seeks revenge against the new queen, Magrit, for outlawing magic and executing her entire race. Farrow's path to vengeance leads her to Prince Mather, the queen's son, as she plans to use a young woman named Cinderella to get close to him during a special ball.
I also enjoy the unique twist by portraying Farrow as a wishing fairy, adding a fresh perspective to the traditional fairy tale elements. Though some were saying that the pace was slow, it does not interfere with my reading experience. Not just that, the portrayal of the queen’s demise add layers to the story, making it much more interesting.
In terms of writing style, the prose is clear and descriptive, immersing readers in the magical world the author has crafted. It has been a while since I read a good fantasy book and this fulfilled it. While for the characters, each one of them has layered personalities and quite determined to get what they want, and i love that for them. Everything that happens aspire them to be the best version of themselves, and I kinda rooting for some of them to seek vengeance 🫢
Overall, I enjoyed the fresh perspective on the fairy godmother character, blending elements of revenge, magic, and romance in a compelling narrative despite some pacing issues in the novel. I think the only thing I dislike about this book is the love triangle trope, but maybe it will get better in the second book. Thank you Pansing for the copy in exchange for a review. This book is now available at all good bookstores.
I also enjoy the unique twist by portraying Farrow as a wishing fairy, adding a fresh perspective to the traditional fairy tale elements. Though some were saying that the pace was slow, it does not interfere with my reading experience. Not just that, the portrayal of the queen’s demise add layers to the story, making it much more interesting.
In terms of writing style, the prose is clear and descriptive, immersing readers in the magical world the author has crafted. It has been a while since I read a good fantasy book and this fulfilled it. While for the characters, each one of them has layered personalities and quite determined to get what they want, and i love that for them. Everything that happens aspire them to be the best version of themselves, and I kinda rooting for some of them to seek vengeance 🫢
Overall, I enjoyed the fresh perspective on the fairy godmother character, blending elements of revenge, magic, and romance in a compelling narrative despite some pacing issues in the novel. I think the only thing I dislike about this book is the love triangle trope, but maybe it will get better in the second book. Thank you Pansing for the copy in exchange for a review. This book is now available at all good bookstores.
May 23, 2024
A retelling of one of the most famous fairytales of all time. Just this time the main character isn't our dear Cinderella, but the one who made all her dreams come true: Farrow, Entente (commonly known as a witch) on the run from the Queen who destroyed her world.
Personal thoughts: I loved the magic displayed here, it was honestly the highlight of the film, along with the small twists the book gradually started displaying the more we ventured deep inside the story. I'm hoping Farrow will break free from the original tale and marry instead of . On the other hand I would be elated if ended up marrying , that would be an ending very well deserved for all characters.
Talking about characterisation I really liked how Cinderella, South and the members of the courtier were done, their characters being the vividest and the ones that remained inside my mind even after finishing the book.
Farrow (Unfortunately yes she had her moments of smartness but they were few) on the other had after she reunited with her sisters became unbearable as soon as she moved inside that house. Every smart idea she'd had in the past was deleted, her sisters literally controlling her in everything and having her use her powers without actual care. Literally, they've been monopolizing her since they found out she was not as magic-less as they thought. Farrow, Farrow, Farrow. Dearest Farrow. You have a working brain use it, there was a reason behind hecate sealing your magic that day, it's not like she woke up one day to choose: -oh-but-let's-seal-Farrows-powers-so that-she-can-struggle-in-life.
The story was per see, could the book have been 50/80 pages less at the start? Yes I think so.
Will I read the sequel if it comes out? Maybe, just to see if I was correct on who gets with who and the stepsisters learn they aren't exactly the heroes of the story.
Personal thoughts: I loved the magic displayed here, it was honestly the highlight of the film, along with the small twists the book gradually started displaying the more we ventured deep inside the story. I'm hoping Farrow will break free from the original tale and marry instead of . On the other hand I would be elated if ended up marrying , that would be an ending very well deserved for all characters.
Talking about characterisation I really liked how Cinderella, South and the members of the courtier were done, their characters being the vividest and the ones that remained inside my mind even after finishing the book.
Farrow (Unfortunately yes she had her moments of smartness but they were few) on the other had after she reunited with her sisters became unbearable as soon as she moved inside that house. Every smart idea she'd had in the past was deleted, her sisters literally controlling her in everything and having her use her powers without actual care. Literally, they've been monopolizing her since they found out she was not as magic-less as they thought. Farrow, Farrow, Farrow. Dearest Farrow. You have a working brain use it, there was a reason behind hecate sealing your magic that day, it's not like she woke up one day to choose: -oh-but-let's-seal-Farrows-powers-so that-she-can-struggle-in-life.
The story was per see, could the book have been 50/80 pages less at the start? Yes I think so.
Will I read the sequel if it comes out? Maybe, just to see if I was correct on who gets with who and the stepsisters learn they aren't exactly the heroes of the story.
January 8, 2025
This was a great read. I always enjoy retellings, and I found this one truly unique. The novel has every element of the classic tale of Cinderella, but it revolves around the Fairy Godmother.
Unlike the original fairy tale, this story is more intriguing, with higher stakes and a lot of magic. It features some good plot twists, and the characters are, for the most part, well-developed.
At first, I wasn’t fully convinced, as the story takes a completely different direction around 40%. However, I ended up enjoying it even more. It’s a good, light read with many positive messages, even though revenge remains the main character’s leading goal.
That said, the book is far from perfect. At times the writing can be confusing, and the pacing is occasionally too slow.
However, I would definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoys retellings and young adult fantasy. There’s no spice, and the content is appropriate for younger readers as well. I know my younger self would have loved it.
So glad to be binging Spell of the Sinister right after this one!
Unlike the original fairy tale, this story is more intriguing, with higher stakes and a lot of magic. It features some good plot twists, and the characters are, for the most part, well-developed.
At first, I wasn’t fully convinced, as the story takes a completely different direction around 40%. However, I ended up enjoying it even more. It’s a good, light read with many positive messages, even though revenge remains the main character’s leading goal.
That said, the book is far from perfect. At times the writing can be confusing, and the pacing is occasionally too slow.
However, I would definitely recommend this book to readers who enjoys retellings and young adult fantasy. There’s no spice, and the content is appropriate for younger readers as well. I know my younger self would have loved it.
So glad to be binging Spell of the Sinister right after this one!
February 18, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up! Honestly this was just so much fun to read that any flaws (like little kid Farrow sounding EXACTLY like her older self, the randomly repeated pages from the prologue again at around p50, the awkward five year time jumps, etc) just faded for me. I REALLY enjoyed this book.
If you like fairy tale retellings (particularly the Disney Twisted Tales) combined with dark fantasy, you will probably enjoy Farrow’s story. Pick it up for the lovely cover, stay for the quick paced engaging plot and characters. I liked that the twists were genuinely surprising even as we knew Farrow was marching toward the inevitability that eventually she would meet Cinderella and send her to the ball.
So yeah! Very, very much enjoyed!
If you like fairy tale retellings (particularly the Disney Twisted Tales) combined with dark fantasy, you will probably enjoy Farrow’s story. Pick it up for the lovely cover, stay for the quick paced engaging plot and characters. I liked that the twists were genuinely surprising even as we knew Farrow was marching toward the inevitability that eventually she would meet Cinderella and send her to the ball.
So yeah! Very, very much enjoyed!
November 29, 2023
Danielle Paige made herself one of my favorite authors almost ten years ago when she debuted with Dorothy Must Die, and now, after a few years dabbling in the worlds of graphic novels and modern-day paranormal sisterhood, she now returns to the Fractured Fairytale style that made her name. She rose up during the heyday of the YA fairytale retelling craze, and while a lot of titans of that genre (Marissa Meyer comes particularly to mind) don't got it so much anymore, Paige here proves that she never lost it. It's a throwback to the 2010s for sure, but this book outclasses most of the rest in the field with its incredibly original perspective, that of a young fairy godmother needing to make sure Cinderella meets the prince because it's part of a long game of revenge against the evil queen. Surprisingly, most of the plot threads wrap up pretty neatly in this book, but Paige is for sure planning a sequel with some of the cliffhangers she's leaving us with on this one, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
December 7, 2024
2.5 ⭐️
It took me forever to read this book because it was slow and all over the place at the same time. For a while it felt like I was reading three different stories and nothing was making sense, but I guess it started to make sense at the end? This book definitely could have been better, but it needed to be more precise and better pacing. ALSO THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH REVENGE!! I was sold on that aspect and…… With all that being said, I’m invested so I will be reading the second book.
It took me forever to read this book because it was slow and all over the place at the same time. For a while it felt like I was reading three different stories and nothing was making sense, but I guess it started to make sense at the end? This book definitely could have been better, but it needed to be more precise and better pacing. ALSO THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH REVENGE!! I was sold on that aspect and…… With all that being said, I’m invested so I will be reading the second book.
November 17, 2024
This was a good one! I enjoyed reading a story from the fairy godmother’s perspective as this wasn’t something that I had encountered before. It was interesting to see other inspirations woven into the story as well aside from just those surrounding Cinderella. These elements made it really unique. I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here.
August 10, 2025
It was tame enough to play over my van speakers during a 7-hour drive to my parents house while my kids were listening. At one point the 8 year old asked, “Mom, why does she keep whining about her mom. We get it, she’s mad at the queen. move on.” So yeah, it was a little juvenile, even for my elementary age kids. Meh
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