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From the Ashes
A Cinderfella (m/m) set roughly in 16th century France
Cinder never thought that he could rise from the ashes of his life, but an unexpected encounter with a woman claiming to be his fairy godmother may be just what he needs. Finding himself flung into his very own fairy tale, she sends him off to meet his Prince Charming. But was the gown really necessary?
Cinder never thought that he could rise from the ashes of his life, but an unexpected encounter with a woman claiming to be his fairy godmother may be just what he needs. Finding himself flung into his very own fairy tale, she sends him off to meet his Prince Charming. But was the gown really necessary?
ebook
First published January 2, 2013
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108 people want to read
About the author
Kayla Jameth
15 books93 followersKayla Jameth grew up on the family farm in Ohio. An unrepentant tomboy, she baled hay, raised cattle, and her father taught her to weld before she graduated from high school.
She attended Cleveland’s Case Western Reserve University and later, Texas A&M University in her pursuit of veterinary medicine, taking her far away from her rural roots.
But it wasn’t all hard work for her, her sojourn as the princess of the Celestial Kingdom left her with the title "Sir" and a costume closet the envy of many knights, lords, and ladies.
After declaring for years that she was not an author, Kayla now finds herself writing m/m erotic romance outside of Houston, Texas. While you can take the girl out of the country, you can't turn her into a city slicker. Kayla would still rather be outside getting down and dirty with the boys.
She shares a full house with her favorite animals: a cat, two guinea pigs, a gerbil, three guppies, as well as her husband, son, and daughter.
She attended Cleveland’s Case Western Reserve University and later, Texas A&M University in her pursuit of veterinary medicine, taking her far away from her rural roots.
But it wasn’t all hard work for her, her sojourn as the princess of the Celestial Kingdom left her with the title "Sir" and a costume closet the envy of many knights, lords, and ladies.
After declaring for years that she was not an author, Kayla now finds herself writing m/m erotic romance outside of Houston, Texas. While you can take the girl out of the country, you can't turn her into a city slicker. Kayla would still rather be outside getting down and dirty with the boys.
She shares a full house with her favorite animals: a cat, two guinea pigs, a gerbil, three guppies, as well as her husband, son, and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 6, 2013
Reviewed on Hearts On Fire... http://heartsonfirereviews.com/
This was a delightful spin on the Cinderella fairy tale. Alain's father remarries a woman with two daughters who takes an instant dislike to Alain. His father dies and all of the household servants are replaced with strangers that know nothing of Alain while his stepmother shoves him into a dress hiding his true identity. Treated like another servant, Alain sleeps in the kitchen and dreams of getting away. There is a huge ball at the castle which the stepmother and her two daughters attend. Alain's fairy godmother shows up and with a wave of her wand transforms Alain into the most stunning looking woman at the ball right down to the glass slipper. It's a WTF? moment for poor Alain but he and the Prince fall in love. Midnight starts to ring and the Prince in left with only a glass shoe. Alain is terrified that the Prince will reject him once he that Alain is a man. The kingdom is searched high and low for any woman who fits the glass shoe. Then the kingdom is searched for any blond who's foot fits the shoe. Bingo, the shoe fits and the Prince loves Alain. This was a short, fun read. I was totally taken by surprise when the fairy godmother zapped Alain into a gown and jeweled hairdo for the ball and Alain's response was priceless. I guess the old lady's wand only worked one way. Ms Jameth did a wonderful job turning this classic fairy tale into its gay counterpart. I liked both the Prince and Alain immensely and felt the relief that Alain did when the Prince was fine with him being a man. The way in which the royal family accepted Alain was nothing short of inspired. I think Alain should have taken his inheritance and given the stepmother and her daughters the boot but Alain was too nice a guy. The HEA was perfectly worked out for this well crafted short story.
This was a delightful spin on the Cinderella fairy tale. Alain's father remarries a woman with two daughters who takes an instant dislike to Alain. His father dies and all of the household servants are replaced with strangers that know nothing of Alain while his stepmother shoves him into a dress hiding his true identity. Treated like another servant, Alain sleeps in the kitchen and dreams of getting away. There is a huge ball at the castle which the stepmother and her two daughters attend. Alain's fairy godmother shows up and with a wave of her wand transforms Alain into the most stunning looking woman at the ball right down to the glass slipper. It's a WTF? moment for poor Alain but he and the Prince fall in love. Midnight starts to ring and the Prince in left with only a glass shoe. Alain is terrified that the Prince will reject him once he that Alain is a man. The kingdom is searched high and low for any woman who fits the glass shoe. Then the kingdom is searched for any blond who's foot fits the shoe. Bingo, the shoe fits and the Prince loves Alain. This was a short, fun read. I was totally taken by surprise when the fairy godmother zapped Alain into a gown and jeweled hairdo for the ball and Alain's response was priceless. I guess the old lady's wand only worked one way. Ms Jameth did a wonderful job turning this classic fairy tale into its gay counterpart. I liked both the Prince and Alain immensely and felt the relief that Alain did when the Prince was fine with him being a man. The way in which the royal family accepted Alain was nothing short of inspired. I think Alain should have taken his inheritance and given the stepmother and her daughters the boot but Alain was too nice a guy. The HEA was perfectly worked out for this well crafted short story.
January 4, 2013
This is a sweet twist on the well known fairytale. The author made a lot of effort to prevent her story following the cliches that abound in the original. Her characters are multi-faceted, not over-blown pantomime extremes. Cinder and his prince aren't perfect but there is still a sugary coating in keeping with the story's theme.
By making her lead character a male, she's opened up all sorts of possibilities. Is he happy appearing in female clothing? How does he react to his sudden interest in men?
This isn't a story about escaping from rags to riches. Monetary wealth is not important for either Cinder or his prince. I thought the author pulled off a clever twist in the way she solved the HEA aspect.
I also liked the way she used old-fashioned prose and wrote in a style perfectly in tune with princes, paupers, harsh manual labor and the idle rich.
By making her lead character a male, she's opened up all sorts of possibilities. Is he happy appearing in female clothing? How does he react to his sudden interest in men?
This isn't a story about escaping from rags to riches. Monetary wealth is not important for either Cinder or his prince. I thought the author pulled off a clever twist in the way she solved the HEA aspect.
I also liked the way she used old-fashioned prose and wrote in a style perfectly in tune with princes, paupers, harsh manual labor and the idle rich.
January 9, 2013
This is my first book from Kayla and I loved it. It was such a sweet spin on a classic tale. You not only get to find out how the prince catches the love (in disguise) but you also get to see beyond that and how true love can be found in unlikely places, even for a guy forced to live a lie. It was a beautiful read and Kayla has earned herself a new reader.
January 7, 2013
3.5 stars
Adorable, a sweet and romantic love story with a nice twist about the prince finally working out how to find and catch his sweetheart. Luck and good fortune are shining bright, he takes that opportune moment to be with Cinder. A good fairytale to lift your spirits, a nice comfy, happy story.
Adorable, a sweet and romantic love story with a nice twist about the prince finally working out how to find and catch his sweetheart. Luck and good fortune are shining bright, he takes that opportune moment to be with Cinder. A good fairytale to lift your spirits, a nice comfy, happy story.
February 26, 2013
This was a nicely written short M/M retelling of Cinderella. It did deviate a tad from the original (obviously) but it kept true to the feel and the roots of the Cinderella theme. It was sweet, it was nice, and I enjoyed my time reading it. And I just love that cover. Full review at On Top Down Under Book Reviews -
http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
http://bookreviewsandtherapy.blogspot...
January 12, 2013
4.5 stars loved it really enjoy reading it, would have like to see some payback but i guess it typical of fairy tales. such a diff. ending than the usual MM fairy tale read.
May 24, 2013
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
This was a fun take on the classic Cinderella story. Now, I don’t want to spoil the book, but I loved the surprise (to me at least) ending and how it was different from the usual ending. That definitely made the book stand out more for me, and I’m glad the author took the risk and made it her own.
Another thing I loved was the humor. There were parts where I just burst out laughing, which made the story even better.
The only thing I didn’t like was how short it seemed to me. I wish it’d been longer and less rushed. Also, there were times where I felt a little disconnected from the story, where things started to become a little out there and unimportant.
All in all though, this was a great read and one I highly recommend.
This was a fun take on the classic Cinderella story. Now, I don’t want to spoil the book, but I loved the surprise (to me at least) ending and how it was different from the usual ending. That definitely made the book stand out more for me, and I’m glad the author took the risk and made it her own.
Another thing I loved was the humor. There were parts where I just burst out laughing, which made the story even better.
The only thing I didn’t like was how short it seemed to me. I wish it’d been longer and less rushed. Also, there were times where I felt a little disconnected from the story, where things started to become a little out there and unimportant.
All in all though, this was a great read and one I highly recommend.
June 2, 2016
wow..beautiful book...yes same as Cinderella...but different as this time princess for the prince was not there,instead a beautiful prince for the handsome prince was there........<3<3
August 11, 2014
OMG!!!! This was awesome. I'm a huge male/male fan and I loved this book. It was short and sweet and I really could feel the emotions of the characters. I loved the twist on this Cinderella story. This author has a new fan in me. I can't wait to read more of her books.
January 25, 2016
Pass a couple of hours in the company of Cinder (Alain) and his Prince, Henri and you won't be disappointed. You know the Cinderella story, but you don't know it like this. Sweet, sexy and definitely not run-of-the-mill.
January 8, 2013
Cinder is adorable and the prince is perfect. Very sweet.
January 13, 2013
4 1/2★s
July 28, 2021
I really enjoy reading it, so cute and adorable.
March 6, 2013
(ETA from way after everything else below was already written: DON'T BE FOOLED. THIS BOOK ISN'T REALLY SET IN 16TH CENTURY FRANCE. IT'S ACTUALLY SET IN A VERY FRENCH-FIED AMERICAN ANTEBELLUM SOUTH. LIKE, LOUISIANA OR SOMETHING [as opposed to Georgia or North Carolina, etc.]. For more information, read below...)
(Post-review ETA: It is highly unfortunate for the author that I am somewhat of a history buff and an aficionado of the 16th-17th century, especially Henrican and Elizabethan times. By this, I mean, in middle school, I read up all about Henry VIII and his wives, then about Elizabeth's childhood (who cares about her reign? All the tragic good stuff was early on :D) and then researched extensively on historical fashions because of theories I had on fantasy settings (yeah, I was an eccentric kid) and also because long flowy dresses are really pretty, for all that I'd never wear something like that. This review is a semi-comment as I went with some brief summary points at the end.)
(I was going to give it 2 stars [1.5 rounded up because it IS at least technically readable], but as I started entering it, the cover ended up annoying me a lot. Not to mention that it's rated a 3.91 overall and I took offense to that, too.)
(*Later ETA: I almost feel guilty about giving it one stars since the writing itself really wasn't bad, but not really. I still really feel the need to balance out those other reviews. And also, it's the author's own fault with her negligence, so *shrugs. The 1-star rating stays.)
Now that I've had time to distance myself more, I'll concede and give it its 2 stars because the writing itself really WAS decent, for all that the ending stank of deus ex machina. Just ignore that stupid little line about 16th century France going into it [I'm not sure if there was anything actually in story that would have indicated such anyways]. It also rings of Disney quite a lot, which, while I was reading, just added further insult to injury. *shrugs. Other people seem to like it. Just didn't work out for me, though. In more than one way.)
The only issue I have is a technical one (original statement; turns out I have a LOT of issues with this) - having Cinder do the laundry for the gowns. The problem is the author set this in the 16th century. Ignoring all other anachronisms, the laundresses used to have to actually dismantle the dresses (including trim and buttons) to wash each past separately (and by hand, I'd like to add) and would sew them back again after everything was laundered and checked to make sure everything was still the same size (accounting for shrinkage or stretching [because of the sheer weight of the fabrics]). In addition, given that they had no dryers back then, what the fuck were they thinking having him launder the dresses the day of the fucking event? There's not time to launder those damn monstrosities and have them dried in time to get them to the ball late, let alone for whenever early time they had in mind to begin preparations.
All in all, laundering a gown was definitely NOT a task that could be accomplished in a matter of hours.
Actually, now that I think of it, why, why the 16th century? I absolutely despise those stupid mutton-leg sleeves that went into fashion thanks to Elizabeth I. And ruffs *shudder. Although French hoods aren't bad.
Okay, granted, it might be the first-ish part of the 16th century, in which case the sleeves are those long, flowy, drapy ones that look really elegant, but highly annoying to maneuver in.
Chignons were definitely NOT in fashion and I have a vague suspicion the author used the term cuz its etymology is French.
Women (or at least the nobility, as Dame Constancia et al are) then generally wore their hair covered and even towards the end of the century when women began wearing their hair uncovered, but plaited with ribbons or gems, it was still pinned quite up. The typical portraits of Elizabeth I are actually quite a good representation of the general fashion of the time (yes, I know she's British. I only mention her because I imagine more people would have a more ready mental image of her than, say, Elisabeth of Austria or Louise of Lourraine.)
Actually, the styles seem to more reflect Marie Antoinette's time (which came a good 100-200 years later than the proposed era) than anything (feathers in her hair? Trailing ringlets? Really?) I'm assuming they've got petticoats instead of farthingales, too...
Huh. Okay, given that the bodices are rather ornate, I'd say either they're complete fuck-ups or this might fit in the later half of the 16th century.
Still, the only thing I can really see that WOULD actually fit in would be the brocade...
And then Cinder's dress...
"Frothy, airy confection"? *blinks, blinks. I'm sorry, what time period are we in?
And then powdered wigs...
ARRRRGGGGHHHH SO NOT 16TH FUCKING CENTURY. DO YOUR FUCKING RESEARCH, WOMAN. WE LIVE IN THE FUCKING AGE OF INFORMATION. USE THE FUCKING RESOURCES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS INSTEAD OF CONTINUING TO WALLOW IN YOUR IGNORANCE AND IDIOTIC PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS PLANTED BY DISNEY.
And another thing...what exactly did he think "using his mother's name" was going to do?
And the prince... doublet and sash? Who wears a sash with a doublet? Do you even know what a doublet is? Apparently not...
Lady, if you're going to set your fucking story in 16th century France, go through with it instead of creating a Disney rip-off.
And do your damn research.
Look what a quick Google search yielded:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia...
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia...
As for the dances:
He has issues waltzing? He's bad at dancing, so he'd rather dance a pavane? Again, does the author even know what these dances are? I suppose it's conceivable that he's just more practiced at a pavane, but as a servant woman? Where the fuck would he have learned pavane from? I also find it inconceivable (=_= this woman's turning me into Vizzini) that Cinder would have issues with trying to lead. Again, where the fuck would he have learned to dance from? He was kept as a "servant woman" since the age of 8. I find it hard to believe he would have practiced between then and whatever time "now" is.
And another thing. What kind of shit dancer is the prince if his partner has issues with trying to lead? Now, I don't dance often (read: pretty much at all) but one a cruise in China once many, many moons ago they had this spoof dance thing and I waltzed with my dad. All I remember is basically swirling madly around because he surprising COULD dance and led damn well. I'd think that the prince would be confident enough in his dancing to lead well enough. Besides, once you get started, why would he still have issues with "stepping off with the wrong foot"? Waltzing isn't exactly a start-stop dance, not in the sense of some others. How hard is it to alternate feet in his steps?
And then the awkward moment when the prince calls Cinder the "belle of the ball" (I guess, seeing the clothes and hair [except for the brocade O_o] I should have known that this was actually set in the antebellum South).
The sex scene was awful.
And also, Henri's waaay too blasé about the entire thing.
Another anachronism: use of beau. But then again, we ARE in the South, so...
And all people have a gay sex instinct *rolls eyes.
And then "In fact, his parents most likely didn’t want him making an advantageous marriage."
...what the fuck? Okay, if he's the second prince, he can still be used for political marriages. *snort "didn't want him making..." as if he'd have any choice...
Argh. And the parting shot -- sorry, I mean "line" -- "And they fucked, err…I mean, lived happily ever after."
At least it's over.
All rants aside, the main issue arose when the author attempted to fit this within a historical time period. I feel if she had just let it go and allowed it to exist in and of itself, most of the things I'm having problems with wouldn't have arisen and ruined my enjoyment of the book. In and of itself, yes, it does rather adhere to Disney's Cinderella, but it does go beyond that rather nicely. The emotions are explored, though they're rather fatalistic. I'm not sure if I had so many issues with it because I couldn't break myself from the thought that it's supposed to be set in the 16th century or if there are any issues beyond that. I'm sure there are; instalove, gay sex instinct, "you're a guy; so what?", etc.
(post-posting ETA:
I made the mistake of scrolling down to look at some of the other reviews. All these good reviews are pissing me off. It certainly didn't lift MY spirits. I'm sure there's a lot of characterization flaws (I can think of several off the top of my head) that got eclipsed by the idiotic anachronisms. I am in no mood to reread to better formulate such arguments, though.)
(Post-review ETA: It is highly unfortunate for the author that I am somewhat of a history buff and an aficionado of the 16th-17th century, especially Henrican and Elizabethan times. By this, I mean, in middle school, I read up all about Henry VIII and his wives, then about Elizabeth's childhood (who cares about her reign? All the tragic good stuff was early on :D) and then researched extensively on historical fashions because of theories I had on fantasy settings (yeah, I was an eccentric kid) and also because long flowy dresses are really pretty, for all that I'd never wear something like that. This review is a semi-comment as I went with some brief summary points at the end.)
(*Later ETA: I almost feel guilty about giving it one stars since the writing itself really wasn't bad, but not really. I still really feel the need to balance out those other reviews. And also, it's the author's own fault with her negligence, so *shrugs. The 1-star rating stays.)
Now that I've had time to distance myself more, I'll concede and give it its 2 stars because the writing itself really WAS decent, for all that the ending stank of deus ex machina. Just ignore that stupid little line about 16th century France going into it [I'm not sure if there was anything actually in story that would have indicated such anyways]. It also rings of Disney quite a lot, which, while I was reading, just added further insult to injury. *shrugs. Other people seem to like it. Just didn't work out for me, though. In more than one way.)
All in all, laundering a gown was definitely NOT a task that could be accomplished in a matter of hours.
Actually, now that I think of it, why, why the 16th century? I absolutely despise those stupid mutton-leg sleeves that went into fashion thanks to Elizabeth I. And ruffs *shudder. Although French hoods aren't bad.
Okay, granted, it might be the first-ish part of the 16th century, in which case the sleeves are those long, flowy, drapy ones that look really elegant, but highly annoying to maneuver in.
Chignons were definitely NOT in fashion and I have a vague suspicion the author used the term cuz its etymology is French.
Women (or at least the nobility, as Dame Constancia et al are) then generally wore their hair covered and even towards the end of the century when women began wearing their hair uncovered, but plaited with ribbons or gems, it was still pinned quite up. The typical portraits of Elizabeth I are actually quite a good representation of the general fashion of the time (yes, I know she's British. I only mention her because I imagine more people would have a more ready mental image of her than, say, Elisabeth of Austria or Louise of Lourraine.)
Actually, the styles seem to more reflect Marie Antoinette's time (which came a good 100-200 years later than the proposed era) than anything (feathers in her hair? Trailing ringlets? Really?) I'm assuming they've got petticoats instead of farthingales, too...
Huh. Okay, given that the bodices are rather ornate, I'd say either they're complete fuck-ups or this might fit in the later half of the 16th century.
Still, the only thing I can really see that WOULD actually fit in would be the brocade...
And then Cinder's dress...
"Frothy, airy confection"? *blinks, blinks. I'm sorry, what time period are we in?
And then powdered wigs...
ARRRRGGGGHHHH SO NOT 16TH FUCKING CENTURY. DO YOUR FUCKING RESEARCH, WOMAN. WE LIVE IN THE FUCKING AGE OF INFORMATION. USE THE FUCKING RESOURCES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS INSTEAD OF CONTINUING TO WALLOW IN YOUR IGNORANCE AND IDIOTIC PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS PLANTED BY DISNEY.
And another thing...what exactly did he think "using his mother's name" was going to do?
And the prince... doublet and sash? Who wears a sash with a doublet? Do you even know what a doublet is? Apparently not...
Lady, if you're going to set your fucking story in 16th century France, go through with it instead of creating a Disney rip-off.
And do your damn research.
Look what a quick Google search yielded:
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia...
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia...
As for the dances:
He has issues waltzing? He's bad at dancing, so he'd rather dance a pavane? Again, does the author even know what these dances are? I suppose it's conceivable that he's just more practiced at a pavane, but as a servant woman? Where the fuck would he have learned pavane from? I also find it inconceivable (=_= this woman's turning me into Vizzini) that Cinder would have issues with trying to lead. Again, where the fuck would he have learned to dance from? He was kept as a "servant woman" since the age of 8. I find it hard to believe he would have practiced between then and whatever time "now" is.
And another thing. What kind of shit dancer is the prince if his partner has issues with trying to lead? Now, I don't dance often (read: pretty much at all) but one a cruise in China once many, many moons ago they had this spoof dance thing and I waltzed with my dad. All I remember is basically swirling madly around because he surprising COULD dance and led damn well. I'd think that the prince would be confident enough in his dancing to lead well enough. Besides, once you get started, why would he still have issues with "stepping off with the wrong foot"? Waltzing isn't exactly a start-stop dance, not in the sense of some others. How hard is it to alternate feet in his steps?
And then the awkward moment when the prince calls Cinder the "belle of the ball" (I guess, seeing the clothes and hair [except for the brocade O_o] I should have known that this was actually set in the antebellum South).
The sex scene was awful.
And also, Henri's waaay too blasé about the entire thing.
Another anachronism: use of beau. But then again, we ARE in the South, so...
And all people have a gay sex instinct *rolls eyes.
And then "In fact, his parents most likely didn’t want him making an advantageous marriage."
...what the fuck? Okay, if he's the second prince, he can still be used for political marriages. *snort "didn't want him making..." as if he'd have any choice...
Argh. And the parting shot -- sorry, I mean "line" -- "And they fucked, err…I mean, lived happily ever after."
At least it's over.
All rants aside, the main issue arose when the author attempted to fit this within a historical time period. I feel if she had just let it go and allowed it to exist in and of itself, most of the things I'm having problems with wouldn't have arisen and ruined my enjoyment of the book. In and of itself, yes, it does rather adhere to Disney's Cinderella, but it does go beyond that rather nicely. The emotions are explored, though they're rather fatalistic. I'm not sure if I had so many issues with it because I couldn't break myself from the thought that it's supposed to be set in the 16th century or if there are any issues beyond that. I'm sure there are; instalove, gay sex instinct, "you're a guy; so what?", etc.
(post-posting ETA:
I made the mistake of scrolling down to look at some of the other reviews. All these good reviews are pissing me off. It certainly didn't lift MY spirits. I'm sure there's a lot of characterization flaws (I can think of several off the top of my head) that got eclipsed by the idiotic anachronisms. I am in no mood to reread to better formulate such arguments, though.)
February 25, 2016
This charming retelling of the Cinderella tale gives us a Cinderfella with wonderful period feeling and just enough magic to make it all work.
We all know the premise, but here, the author puts us into the sixteenth century French court, complete with politics, scheming and deception. Our hero has been stripped of his birthright, and in truly wicked fairy tale fashion he’s also been forced to dress and live as a woman. Even his fellow housemaids aren’t too clear that one of these servants is not like the others. Overwork and undernourishment keep our hero slight of frame, so the deception persists.
Fairy godmother turns up, right on cue, to send Cinder to the ball in silks and satins and the obligatory glass slippers, with the usual admonishments, and for the usual reasons. But however shall his Prince deal with the discovery that his princess is no lady?
This does all work out-of course! We need our HEA!-but not before our emotions get yanked all over the place with the additional worry of gender, succession, and some sixteenth century political intrigue. The author is historian enough to make us believe completely in the time and setting, so even though we’ve all known how this story works out since we were six years old, the how and where reads fresh.
We do get to see Prince Charming aka Henri’s POV a bit, and cementing in the HEA. The ending lurched a little for me, but all works out well, and I would happily spend another chilly evening wrapped up in a blanket with this author’s work.
We all know the premise, but here, the author puts us into the sixteenth century French court, complete with politics, scheming and deception. Our hero has been stripped of his birthright, and in truly wicked fairy tale fashion he’s also been forced to dress and live as a woman. Even his fellow housemaids aren’t too clear that one of these servants is not like the others. Overwork and undernourishment keep our hero slight of frame, so the deception persists.
Fairy godmother turns up, right on cue, to send Cinder to the ball in silks and satins and the obligatory glass slippers, with the usual admonishments, and for the usual reasons. But however shall his Prince deal with the discovery that his princess is no lady?
This does all work out-of course! We need our HEA!-but not before our emotions get yanked all over the place with the additional worry of gender, succession, and some sixteenth century political intrigue. The author is historian enough to make us believe completely in the time and setting, so even though we’ve all known how this story works out since we were six years old, the how and where reads fresh.
We do get to see Prince Charming aka Henri’s POV a bit, and cementing in the HEA. The ending lurched a little for me, but all works out well, and I would happily spend another chilly evening wrapped up in a blanket with this author’s work.
January 16, 2013
What if Cinderella was not a little girl? What if in reality she was a little boy whose wicked, twisted and absolutely diabolic stepmother erased him, re-dressed him, re-named him, gave him made status in order to take his inheritance. After all a young Master is always a Master no matter his age, but what if there were no Master at all?
I must admit my curiosity went up in enormous proportions when I got this book. And I’ll say one thing, if Cinderella’s fairytale got me as a kid, Cinder’s tale certainly got me as an adult. I mean Cinderella is one of the few tales that screams “child-abuse”, even Snow-white is easier in the ears in comparison. But From the Ashes takes this tale into whole new levels.
And oh my, this tale kept me in anticipation of what’s next the whole read. Imagine a beautiful boy being forced to respond, act, behave as a girl from his eight till his eighteen years old. Not only that but that crazy fairy Godmother sends him to the ball, still dressed in a damn dress. Frustration? Yeah! And oh dear, the Prince actually falls for him, or “her”, the illusion, the deception that Cinder’s been forced to for years. What are the chances that Prince Henry will find the truth and well… not take his head off?
I liked this fairytale, it was interesting, it was well-worked, and it had a surprising ending. I definitely suggest you give it a try.
Thommie
I must admit my curiosity went up in enormous proportions when I got this book. And I’ll say one thing, if Cinderella’s fairytale got me as a kid, Cinder’s tale certainly got me as an adult. I mean Cinderella is one of the few tales that screams “child-abuse”, even Snow-white is easier in the ears in comparison. But From the Ashes takes this tale into whole new levels.
And oh my, this tale kept me in anticipation of what’s next the whole read. Imagine a beautiful boy being forced to respond, act, behave as a girl from his eight till his eighteen years old. Not only that but that crazy fairy Godmother sends him to the ball, still dressed in a damn dress. Frustration? Yeah! And oh dear, the Prince actually falls for him, or “her”, the illusion, the deception that Cinder’s been forced to for years. What are the chances that Prince Henry will find the truth and well… not take his head off?
I liked this fairytale, it was interesting, it was well-worked, and it had a surprising ending. I definitely suggest you give it a try.
Thommie
February 26, 2013
3.5 stars
This is a cute, gay, retelling of Cinderella. There is the evil stepmother, the horrid stepsisters, the ball, the prince and the lost slipper. Of course with it being M/M, the characters aren't quite as they are in the original classic. :)
A quick, fun read.
I love the cover. :)
This is a cute, gay, retelling of Cinderella. There is the evil stepmother, the horrid stepsisters, the ball, the prince and the lost slipper. Of course with it being M/M, the characters aren't quite as they are in the original classic. :)
A quick, fun read.
I love the cover. :)
February 1, 2016
For a short story this was really cute. I enjoyed the take on Cinderella using a man who was forced to be a "Girl".
July 12, 2016
You're My Prince
A wonderful take on the classic fairy tale; Cinderella. A perfectly sweet retailing with a hot Prince who finds his 'Cinder-fella.'
A wonderful take on the classic fairy tale; Cinderella. A perfectly sweet retailing with a hot Prince who finds his 'Cinder-fella.'
January 14, 2013
It was a cute little romp through the classic tale. I've read better, as well as worse. I will give thanks to the author for not making Cinder girly . Overall I would rate it a solid 3, and worth re-reading and a recommendation to any who need a tea break and a sweet escape .
I noticed no huge distracting grammar errors.
I noticed no huge distracting grammar errors.
October 24, 2021
It was so sweet, I loved it.
November 8, 2021
Cute and funny, I loved Cinder and his Prince.
February 24, 2014
Now I just want to say that I am a huge fan of fairy tales and genuinely enjoy the retellings of them too. I have no objections to the idea of spinning the Cinderella myth to a M/M couple either. But for me, this one just really didn’t work. It’s overly simplistic and yet comes at things from the strangest angle. It assumes a lot of forgiveness on the part of the reader to my way of thinking.
Cinder’s stepmother runs the household and after his father died forced him into a life of servitude. But that’s not all. In order to retain control of the estate she forced Cinder to dress as a woman and denied any claims that Cinder’s father had a son to inherit after him. She stuck him with the name Cinderella and both she and his stepsisters take great pleasure in ordering him around and calling him by his fake name. Though he just might scream if he hears the name ‘Ella one more time. He hasn’t even been allowed to think his real name in years. Now his step family is in a tizzy over being invited to some ball, a ball that just means more work for Cinder in the end.
This version of the Cinderella tale is pretty much straight out of Disney minus some singing and magical mice. Well and the fact that our hero is male. Or at least he is physically because I gotta say the mostly weak willed vapid version of Cinder told here reminds me of every heroine I’ve disliked. For a girl he has no backbone, for a guy, well yeah…bleh. I mean you’re basically a grown man and you’re ok with your stepmother insisting you dress and pretend to be a female? There’s nothing in the story here that lends me to believe there were any consequences for him if he stepped out and owned up to who he was. Hello world, I’m not a girl and yeah this is my family’s estate. I mean what exactly could his stepmother have really done?
Then we have our love at first sight prince (granted I’m not opposed to love at first sight, but this was a little ridiculous to my way of thinking). This is a fairy tale, I’ll give you the “eyes meeting across a crowded room” type moment, but could you back it up with a little substance. Cinder basically stands around the entire time they’re dancing feeling stupid and clumsy. There’s no witty repartee upon which to build an increasing fascination or anything. To top all that off the prince has absolutely no qualms or second thoughts upon finding out that his dearly beloved is actually a guy. Just a shrug and an “oh well it’s all good.” It’s ok to get over it, obviously, but a little reaction would be nice.
I’ve adored versions of this story in the past. Ever After springs to mind. But in all other versions I’ve liked the character of Cinderella has had some backbone. Has had something that they were fighting for, some spark of independence and fire. Here Cinder’s not even fighting to protect those on the manor, to save them from his wicked stepmother’s evil ways. He just accepts his fate and doesn’t argue. Heck he can barely get a word out to explain to his fairy godmother that he’s not a girl he’s a guy.
While the story is told smoothly and the prose is sweet there didn’t seem to be any soul to this story. A quick read for sure, but I’ve enjoyed much better. This is a M/F fairy tale told by arbitrarily changing the gender to male. It’s the same story I’ve read a thousand times and nothing stands out as unique. It wasn’t bad per se. It just wasn’t interesting either.
Cinder’s stepmother runs the household and after his father died forced him into a life of servitude. But that’s not all. In order to retain control of the estate she forced Cinder to dress as a woman and denied any claims that Cinder’s father had a son to inherit after him. She stuck him with the name Cinderella and both she and his stepsisters take great pleasure in ordering him around and calling him by his fake name. Though he just might scream if he hears the name ‘Ella one more time. He hasn’t even been allowed to think his real name in years. Now his step family is in a tizzy over being invited to some ball, a ball that just means more work for Cinder in the end.
This version of the Cinderella tale is pretty much straight out of Disney minus some singing and magical mice. Well and the fact that our hero is male. Or at least he is physically because I gotta say the mostly weak willed vapid version of Cinder told here reminds me of every heroine I’ve disliked. For a girl he has no backbone, for a guy, well yeah…bleh. I mean you’re basically a grown man and you’re ok with your stepmother insisting you dress and pretend to be a female? There’s nothing in the story here that lends me to believe there were any consequences for him if he stepped out and owned up to who he was. Hello world, I’m not a girl and yeah this is my family’s estate. I mean what exactly could his stepmother have really done?
Then we have our love at first sight prince (granted I’m not opposed to love at first sight, but this was a little ridiculous to my way of thinking). This is a fairy tale, I’ll give you the “eyes meeting across a crowded room” type moment, but could you back it up with a little substance. Cinder basically stands around the entire time they’re dancing feeling stupid and clumsy. There’s no witty repartee upon which to build an increasing fascination or anything. To top all that off the prince has absolutely no qualms or second thoughts upon finding out that his dearly beloved is actually a guy. Just a shrug and an “oh well it’s all good.” It’s ok to get over it, obviously, but a little reaction would be nice.
I’ve adored versions of this story in the past. Ever After springs to mind. But in all other versions I’ve liked the character of Cinderella has had some backbone. Has had something that they were fighting for, some spark of independence and fire. Here Cinder’s not even fighting to protect those on the manor, to save them from his wicked stepmother’s evil ways. He just accepts his fate and doesn’t argue. Heck he can barely get a word out to explain to his fairy godmother that he’s not a girl he’s a guy.
While the story is told smoothly and the prose is sweet there didn’t seem to be any soul to this story. A quick read for sure, but I’ve enjoyed much better. This is a M/F fairy tale told by arbitrarily changing the gender to male. It’s the same story I’ve read a thousand times and nothing stands out as unique. It wasn’t bad per se. It just wasn’t interesting either.
May 15, 2013
Kayla Jameth has turned the fairytale world on its ear by putting a new spin on the well-known story of Cinderella. In this unique and clever m/m story a young man is forced into the Cinderella role when his nefarious step-mother hides his true gender to keep the inheritance that should have gone to him upon his father's death. As he gets older he longs to shed the disguise forced on him and become the man his body is pushing him to be. For too long he's been malnourished both physically and mentally and there's a childlike essence to his personality at the start of the story. Things start to change for him when his fairy godmother sends him to the ball and he meets the one man to completely upend his existence and puts him on the path to a somewhat unconventional HEA. It's not until the very end when he's allowed to be himself that he fully matures into the man he was always supposed to be.
The man Cinder meets is of the royalty and is tired too of keeping his true self hidden. He wants to be with someone who accepts him for himself and an unexpected encounter with the one person who he senses is just like him has him searching the countryside for this lost love. Henri wholeheartedly accepts Cinder, and in a too neatly tied up conclusion, is allowed to ride off into the sunset with the man of his dreams.
This story is mainly focused on Cinder and we get to know his deepest emotions. Henri is older and wiser but we don't get to know him nearly as well. He's Cinder's savior and helps him become a man. Their early encounters are shy yet playful. Late in the story is when things really get hot. Until then readers are put on a whimsical journey where things are not what they always seem. Cinder is likable and you long for him to get his HEA. You also want his step-family to pay for what they put him through but unfortunately that part of the story is left hanging. On a whole this is a fun and sexy story that has you thinking about fairytales in a whole new way.
3.5 STARS!
The man Cinder meets is of the royalty and is tired too of keeping his true self hidden. He wants to be with someone who accepts him for himself and an unexpected encounter with the one person who he senses is just like him has him searching the countryside for this lost love. Henri wholeheartedly accepts Cinder, and in a too neatly tied up conclusion, is allowed to ride off into the sunset with the man of his dreams.
This story is mainly focused on Cinder and we get to know his deepest emotions. Henri is older and wiser but we don't get to know him nearly as well. He's Cinder's savior and helps him become a man. Their early encounters are shy yet playful. Late in the story is when things really get hot. Until then readers are put on a whimsical journey where things are not what they always seem. Cinder is likable and you long for him to get his HEA. You also want his step-family to pay for what they put him through but unfortunately that part of the story is left hanging. On a whole this is a fun and sexy story that has you thinking about fairytales in a whole new way.
3.5 STARS!
January 20, 2013
This was odd. I've read a lot of m/m retellings of fairy tales--some of which I've LOVED, and some of which I've hated to the point of ranting. But I've not yet found one quite as odd as this.
This was basically the Disney version of Cinderella (even opening with the stepmother shouting the name with the shrill emphasis on the "ella") but with healthy doses of Drew Barrymore's Ever After, and even a few moments from the old Slipper and the Rose. The big difference is that Cinderella is really a boy, made to dress and act like a girl so the stepmother can have his inheritance (since it's apparently set in 16th century France and therefore girls can't inherit).
The writing was good, with moments of delightful, and it was fun to see all of the references to other retellings of the Cinderella story. But the whole premise was just so odd, and the decisions of several of the characters also so odd, that I had a hard time losing myself in the story.
Some favorite quotes:
"She didn't seem to know, much less care, how pretentious her offsprings' double names were to someone from whom she had stolen the only one he had."
"He couldn't have tolerated any attention or concern. It would have broken him into uncountable mangled pieces."
"It's like I'm only really me when you are by my side."
This was basically the Disney version of Cinderella (even opening with the stepmother shouting the name with the shrill emphasis on the "ella") but with healthy doses of Drew Barrymore's Ever After, and even a few moments from the old Slipper and the Rose. The big difference is that Cinderella is really a boy, made to dress and act like a girl so the stepmother can have his inheritance (since it's apparently set in 16th century France and therefore girls can't inherit).
The writing was good, with moments of delightful, and it was fun to see all of the references to other retellings of the Cinderella story. But the whole premise was just so odd, and the decisions of several of the characters also so odd, that I had a hard time losing myself in the story.
Some favorite quotes:
"She didn't seem to know, much less care, how pretentious her offsprings' double names were to someone from whom she had stolen the only one he had."
"He couldn't have tolerated any attention or concern. It would have broken him into uncountable mangled pieces."
"It's like I'm only really me when you are by my side."
November 26, 2014
3 1/2 *
The fairytale of Cinderella has always been one of my favorites. A story that tells you that you don't necessarily have to be a princess to find your prince Charming - you only have to be yourself (and of course a fairy godmother helps A LOT!). I remember that as a little boy who fell in love with other boys, I hoped that there could be a fairytale where prince Charming met his male true love, but it seemed that fairy tales were only for straight children. Well, I still found my "prince Charming", but the fictional stories remained straight.
This is why this story caught my eye. And I want to thank Kayla Jameth for writing such a lovely m/m fairytale. Without the erotism, this would be a perfect alternative to the Disney version.
Closing in to the end of the book, I was surprised to see that the story went further than Disney's version. I liked the solution to a certain problem.
Some stuff wasn't how I wished it to be (sorry for the vagueness, but I'm trying to not write any spoilers) and that's one of the main reasons that I didn't give it more stars. But all in all, this version is adorable.
The fairytale of Cinderella has always been one of my favorites. A story that tells you that you don't necessarily have to be a princess to find your prince Charming - you only have to be yourself (and of course a fairy godmother helps A LOT!). I remember that as a little boy who fell in love with other boys, I hoped that there could be a fairytale where prince Charming met his male true love, but it seemed that fairy tales were only for straight children. Well, I still found my "prince Charming", but the fictional stories remained straight.
This is why this story caught my eye. And I want to thank Kayla Jameth for writing such a lovely m/m fairytale. Without the erotism, this would be a perfect alternative to the Disney version.
Closing in to the end of the book, I was surprised to see that the story went further than Disney's version. I liked the solution to a certain problem.
Some stuff wasn't how I wished it to be (sorry for the vagueness, but I'm trying to not write any spoilers) and that's one of the main reasons that I didn't give it more stars. But all in all, this version is adorable.
October 5, 2016
Cute little Cinderella story with a M/M twist. I read along eagerly, trying to figure out how in the world the author was going to work the story out. I really liked the way the twist ending was handled and it really did lend a nice, believable happily ever after for the couple. My only regret is that the couple didn't share more conversation at the ball--but then I supposed that fated pairs do have that instant and sure connection that brings them together without many words needing to be said. There is plenty of steamy sex without making the story feel tawdry or like simple erotica. Definitely a cheerful, saucy, feel-good story!
February 21, 2017
Big point for the prince for figuring things out, rare case in fairytales. I liked both Cinder and his fated Prince Charming.
November 14, 2021
A different Cinderella story, an adorable fairy tale. I loved everything about it.
March 3, 2022
This story was a delight, I love it.
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