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Chic Manila #2
Fairy Tale Fail
Ellie thought she knew what she wanted in a guy: someone dependable, and someone she could bring home to her parents. In other words, a good guy to complete her happily-ever-after fairy tale. When her good guy boyfriend all of a sudden dumps her in the place she least expected-saying that she is "a failure at relationships"-Ellie feels she has to fight harder to make her fairy tale come true.
But when hot mysterious Lucas, whom Ellie secretly calls Rock Star, enters her life and starts challenging everything she believes in, she has to face the truth about her goals and dreams. Will Ellie find the fairy tale she's always dreamed of? And more importantly, who will fill the swashbuckling shoes of Prince Charming to give her story the happy ending she so deserves?
But when hot mysterious Lucas, whom Ellie secretly calls Rock Star, enters her life and starts challenging everything she believes in, she has to face the truth about her goals and dreams. Will Ellie find the fairy tale she's always dreamed of? And more importantly, who will fill the swashbuckling shoes of Prince Charming to give her story the happy ending she so deserves?
144 pages, Paperback
First published April 17, 2010
18 people are currently reading
878 people want to read
About the author
Mina V. Esguerra
47 books595 followersMina V. Esguerra writes contemporary romance and young adult novellas. She has a bachelor's degree in Communication and a master's degree in Development Communication, put to good use in her work as trainer and content management consultant. Mina lives in Metro Manila, Philippines, with her husband and daughter.
She finds inspiration in the lives and experiences of other people, so the answer to "Is this story based on you?" is always, always "No."
She finds inspiration in the lives and experiences of other people, so the answer to "Is this story based on you?" is always, always "No."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
January 14, 2013
Definitely a nice romance book. A chick lit that is not hard for men to read or appreciate.
I would imagine that younger men could see themselves as either the cool athletic Lucas or the serious workaholic Don. I am too old to relate to either of them and there is no parent character in this particular Esguerra chick lit. So, what did I consciously do to "connect" to the story? I asked myself this question: "If Ellie were my own daughter, would I be proud of her?"
Overall, my answer was YES and this question made me like the book. While reading I analyzed the character of Ellie as if she were my daughter. I was seeing all that she's doing. I was hearing all that she's saying. I was the equivalent of a third-party omniscient narrator. I was like a third-party omniscient audience.
Ellie is smart. She means well. She wants to make her parents proud of her by bringing somebody like the hardworking mature Don as her boyfriend. She tends to over-analyze things but that is what she is, a thinker. She's fond of traveling even if her salary can hardly support this hobby so oftentimes dreams of those places that she wants to see. Traveling is a good way to educate oneself. She's also a dreamer and we know that big things are normally created in the mind first; sometimes in a form of a dream.
Ellie's weakness, however, is that probably because of her age (raging hormones), she easily gives in to temptation without even thinking. She unconsciously removes her blouse the moment that she is alone with Lucas. She engages in pre-marital sex without thinking twice. Is this how teenagers/young people now behave? Ellie is a thinker but when it comes to carnal urges, her whole brain liquefies and evaporates in just a matter of split second. Ellie is even portrayed as a religious (spiritual) person and yet she does not have any qualms sleeping with somebody who is not even her official boyfriend. Many young people read this book so I hope they will not pattern their morals with that of Ellie's.
However, I'd like to think that Esguerra deliberately incorporated that trait into Ellie's biodata to put some verve into her like she is some kind of modern free-spirited young woman. I understand that most Filipino women would like to be seen as liberated, not priggish about sex and fun to be with. Of course, without being considered cheap nor easy to get. So, that part, I'd like to believe, is to cater to the fantasy of most women's fun side. Romance is basically an escapist genre so I fully understand.
My 4th Esguerra book and definitely not my last.
I would imagine that younger men could see themselves as either the cool athletic Lucas or the serious workaholic Don. I am too old to relate to either of them and there is no parent character in this particular Esguerra chick lit. So, what did I consciously do to "connect" to the story? I asked myself this question: "If Ellie were my own daughter, would I be proud of her?"
Overall, my answer was YES and this question made me like the book. While reading I analyzed the character of Ellie as if she were my daughter. I was seeing all that she's doing. I was hearing all that she's saying. I was the equivalent of a third-party omniscient narrator. I was like a third-party omniscient audience.
Ellie is smart. She means well. She wants to make her parents proud of her by bringing somebody like the hardworking mature Don as her boyfriend. She tends to over-analyze things but that is what she is, a thinker. She's fond of traveling even if her salary can hardly support this hobby so oftentimes dreams of those places that she wants to see. Traveling is a good way to educate oneself. She's also a dreamer and we know that big things are normally created in the mind first; sometimes in a form of a dream.
Ellie's weakness, however, is that probably because of her age (raging hormones), she easily gives in to temptation without even thinking. She unconsciously removes her blouse the moment that she is alone with Lucas. She engages in pre-marital sex without thinking twice. Is this how teenagers/young people now behave? Ellie is a thinker but when it comes to carnal urges, her whole brain liquefies and evaporates in just a matter of split second. Ellie is even portrayed as a religious (spiritual) person and yet she does not have any qualms sleeping with somebody who is not even her official boyfriend. Many young people read this book so I hope they will not pattern their morals with that of Ellie's.
However, I'd like to think that Esguerra deliberately incorporated that trait into Ellie's biodata to put some verve into her like she is some kind of modern free-spirited young woman. I understand that most Filipino women would like to be seen as liberated, not priggish about sex and fun to be with. Of course, without being considered cheap nor easy to get. So, that part, I'd like to believe, is to cater to the fantasy of most women's fun side. Romance is basically an escapist genre so I fully understand.
My 4th Esguerra book and definitely not my last.
Read
April 20, 2018I only have one Chic Manila book left and I may have to put it my "in an emergency, break glass" folder. This series is a joy.
This one is a lovely dissection of the Terrible Good Boyfriend. Ellie starts in a relationship with Don, who is such a great guy that even when he breaks up with her via a reasoned explanation of her many faults and inadequacies, she still thinks for most of the book that they'll work it out because, after all, Don is a good guy! And totally reasonable!
Thank God for Lucas, acting as catalyst rather than cause of Ellie getting back on her feet, finding what she really wants, and making her own judgement of herself. The final scene when Don tries to get Ellie back is the absolute pinnacle of wish fulfilment for anyone who's ever been subjected to the reasonable, sensible, measured criticism of a good boyfriend. (Except she doesn't douse him in petrol and light a match. But otherwise.) Hugely enjoyable.
This one is a lovely dissection of the Terrible Good Boyfriend. Ellie starts in a relationship with Don, who is such a great guy that even when he breaks up with her via a reasoned explanation of her many faults and inadequacies, she still thinks for most of the book that they'll work it out because, after all, Don is a good guy! And totally reasonable!
Thank God for Lucas, acting as catalyst rather than cause of Ellie getting back on her feet, finding what she really wants, and making her own judgement of herself. The final scene when Don tries to get Ellie back is the absolute pinnacle of wish fulfilment for anyone who's ever been subjected to the reasonable, sensible, measured criticism of a good boyfriend. (Except she doesn't douse him in petrol and light a match. But otherwise.) Hugely enjoyable.
December 26, 2017
Fairy Tale Fail is a very short tale, but it completely validates female emotions. While every girl, of course, wishes for a Prince Charming; every girl also wishes for someone to appreciate them for everything they are. Most of the time, the charming ones are not charmed with the gift. My daughter said that
a boyfriend material doesn’t have to be perfect; he just needs to listen and know when to turn the pressure off
. Where did she get that? LOL, I think I have a good idea where…
This book made me look back into the (not-so-distant) past, back at a time when my hubby and I were just dating. We didn’t really get to dance the Tango. He had his own moves, and I had my own, but we found each other’s moves interesting; and that worked for us. The truth is, if I had a boyfriend like Don, I would have squirmed.
More than that, this book is about building self-confidence. Recovering from break-ups does not mean forgetting about your ex, it means reacquainting with yourself again – rebuilding yourself from the inside- for your own. Lucky Ellie, she had Lucas to remind her that.
As I’ve said, this is a short charming tale everyone (Prince Charming included) may enjoy. I wish all the readers to find their own Lucas out there, as I have.
Same thoughts written here.
This book made me look back into the (not-so-distant) past, back at a time when my hubby and I were just dating. We didn’t really get to dance the Tango. He had his own moves, and I had my own, but we found each other’s moves interesting; and that worked for us. The truth is, if I had a boyfriend like Don, I would have squirmed.
More than that, this book is about building self-confidence. Recovering from break-ups does not mean forgetting about your ex, it means reacquainting with yourself again – rebuilding yourself from the inside- for your own. Lucky Ellie, she had Lucas to remind her that.
As I’ve said, this is a short charming tale everyone (Prince Charming included) may enjoy. I wish all the readers to find their own Lucas out there, as I have.
"Really, people should leave us brokenhearted folk alone and stop trying to fix us. We healed on our own time."
Same thoughts written here.
September 20, 2017
September 2017 reread:
Fairy Tale Fail was the first ever Mina V. Esguerra book that I read way back in 2010! It’s part of her Chic Manila series, which has several standalone titles that are loosely tied together only in the sense that the books are set in Manila and the main characters from each book know each other in some way. A new edition of this book has been released with a cover featuring theater actors Gio Gahol and Gab Pangilinan, and a short epilogue.
I couldn’t help but reread it when I got my hands on thew edition. I have fond memories of this book and have been recommending it to all my friends, along with the rest of Mina’s books. As I mentioned in my Litsy review: I remember when I read this for the first time in 2010, I felt like the story was a slice out of MY real life. Philippine setting (complete with typhoons, bulalo and siomai), Manila corporate work environment. And I was the same age as the characters at that time. Reread it in one sitting today, and it felt like catching up with old friends. The kilig/swoon factor is still there and the new epilogue was a nice bonus.💖
I did notice that the heat level for Fairy Tale Fail was very low. It’s the same for all of Mina’s earlier books. I guess it was just the expectation and trend at that time for Filipino-romance-in-English to have fade to black love scenes. I’m very happy to report that this isn’t the case nowadays. 🙂 I had fun revisiting Ellie and Lucas, more so because I don’t get to reread old favorites as much as I would want to. Now that the rainy season is here, I want to have bulalo (a Filipino type of broth that has meat and marrow) because it was mentioned in one of the pivotal scenes in the book. I think every Filipino romance should mention at least one Filipino dish that would make readers crave for it.
If you’re ever in mood for Filipino romance, Mina V. Esguerra’s books are always a good place to start. 😀
__________________________
November 2010 review:
I always say that in order for me to like a book, I have to be able to relate to it somehow. No worries on that department when it comes to this one because I could TOTALLY relate to Ellie. Twenty-something Filipina working in a corporate job but really doesn't know what her career path is? That could be me! Ellie's thing is traveling and making plans for hypothetical trips abroad. While I do love to travel, I don't get to do it that often so I guess it would be better to say that my thing is reading and blogging about books. I've never experienced an office romance like Ellie did but the breaking up with a boyfriend-who-was-a-friend-before-you-became-a-couple? Been there, done that. Ellie also has several circles of friends, from her high school barkada to her office mates and I'm like that as well. Each set of friends has a different personality and I like to think that each group brings out a different side of me. Ellie is really believable as a character - she's a representation of me, my friends and every young Pinay out there looking for her own fairy tale.
I keep my reviews spoiler-free so I don't want to mention any names but I want a guy like the male protagonist! Seriously.♥ I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Ellie and her attempts to get her life back in order after the breakup. Fairy Tale Fail is a light and fun contemporary romance that gives a glimpse of middle class life in the Philippines. If only the paperback was as cheap as the e-book edition, I'd buy lots of copies and give them as Christmas gifts to my girlfriends. Unfortunately, the paperback is more expensive at P350. The good news is the e-book is available both in Smashwords and Amazon so for all international readers out there, you could order this anytime you want. If you want a peek at what our lives are usually like (and by us I mean young professionals in the Philippines), then go and read this book! At $0.99, it's cheaper than your average Starbucks coffee. It's really short too, more like a novella than a novel. I'm interested to see how readers outside the Philippines will react to this one. One minor quibble though, I wish Mina included footnotes to define some of the Filipino words used in the book like kuya, barkada and bulalo so that foreigners will be able to understand them. That said, I'd like to thank Mina for coming up with a well-written Filipino chick lit novel. :) I look forward to reading her other book, My Imaginary Ex and I hope she comes up with a thicker novel next time.
Fairy Tale Fail was the first ever Mina V. Esguerra book that I read way back in 2010! It’s part of her Chic Manila series, which has several standalone titles that are loosely tied together only in the sense that the books are set in Manila and the main characters from each book know each other in some way. A new edition of this book has been released with a cover featuring theater actors Gio Gahol and Gab Pangilinan, and a short epilogue.
I couldn’t help but reread it when I got my hands on thew edition. I have fond memories of this book and have been recommending it to all my friends, along with the rest of Mina’s books. As I mentioned in my Litsy review: I remember when I read this for the first time in 2010, I felt like the story was a slice out of MY real life. Philippine setting (complete with typhoons, bulalo and siomai), Manila corporate work environment. And I was the same age as the characters at that time. Reread it in one sitting today, and it felt like catching up with old friends. The kilig/swoon factor is still there and the new epilogue was a nice bonus.💖
I did notice that the heat level for Fairy Tale Fail was very low. It’s the same for all of Mina’s earlier books. I guess it was just the expectation and trend at that time for Filipino-romance-in-English to have fade to black love scenes. I’m very happy to report that this isn’t the case nowadays. 🙂 I had fun revisiting Ellie and Lucas, more so because I don’t get to reread old favorites as much as I would want to. Now that the rainy season is here, I want to have bulalo (a Filipino type of broth that has meat and marrow) because it was mentioned in one of the pivotal scenes in the book. I think every Filipino romance should mention at least one Filipino dish that would make readers crave for it.
If you’re ever in mood for Filipino romance, Mina V. Esguerra’s books are always a good place to start. 😀
__________________________
November 2010 review:
I always say that in order for me to like a book, I have to be able to relate to it somehow. No worries on that department when it comes to this one because I could TOTALLY relate to Ellie. Twenty-something Filipina working in a corporate job but really doesn't know what her career path is? That could be me! Ellie's thing is traveling and making plans for hypothetical trips abroad. While I do love to travel, I don't get to do it that often so I guess it would be better to say that my thing is reading and blogging about books. I've never experienced an office romance like Ellie did but the breaking up with a boyfriend-who-was-a-friend-before-you-became-a-couple? Been there, done that. Ellie also has several circles of friends, from her high school barkada to her office mates and I'm like that as well. Each set of friends has a different personality and I like to think that each group brings out a different side of me. Ellie is really believable as a character - she's a representation of me, my friends and every young Pinay out there looking for her own fairy tale.
I keep my reviews spoiler-free so I don't want to mention any names but I want a guy like the male protagonist! Seriously.♥ I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Ellie and her attempts to get her life back in order after the breakup. Fairy Tale Fail is a light and fun contemporary romance that gives a glimpse of middle class life in the Philippines. If only the paperback was as cheap as the e-book edition, I'd buy lots of copies and give them as Christmas gifts to my girlfriends. Unfortunately, the paperback is more expensive at P350. The good news is the e-book is available both in Smashwords and Amazon so for all international readers out there, you could order this anytime you want. If you want a peek at what our lives are usually like (and by us I mean young professionals in the Philippines), then go and read this book! At $0.99, it's cheaper than your average Starbucks coffee. It's really short too, more like a novella than a novel. I'm interested to see how readers outside the Philippines will react to this one. One minor quibble though, I wish Mina included footnotes to define some of the Filipino words used in the book like kuya, barkada and bulalo so that foreigners will be able to understand them. That said, I'd like to thank Mina for coming up with a well-written Filipino chick lit novel. :) I look forward to reading her other book, My Imaginary Ex and I hope she comes up with a thicker novel next time.
March 10, 2012
3.5 stars really. Liked this one. A quick little gem.
Review originally posted on my book blog here
The Premise: Ellie Manuel is a young twenty-something working girl and free spirit. She enjoys her job in Marketing, but work is not the end-all and be-all of her life. Travel is her real passion, and can spend hours constructing her next vacation. From what to eat to where to stay, the options are limitless. Ellie is a dreamer for sure, and she is convinced that life is like a fairytale. There are only seven types of stories, but in Ellie's life, she is the Hero, and eventually, she will get her happily ever after. That is why, when her boyfriend Don dumps her because they aren't "in sync", Ellie is sure it's all just a part of her Hero's Journey. Don will come back if she stays true. Then months pass, and Ellie isn't so sure. She gets promoted, makes friends with the cute guy of the office, and begins to feel happy, without Don. Wasn't Don her True Love? Or was she mistaken?
My Thoughts: It was very interesting to read about life in the corporate world that's so different from mine. Not only do I know nothing about Marketing or Client Services, but the corporate culture in Ellie's life sounds so different. Just the fact that there were a lot of young people in Ellie's office blew me away (there is a serious dearth of people my age where I work), but that there is a social life among them? I'm jealous. I loved the concept of the barkadas - circles of friends and how they tied into the story. How social the work culture seems! I also enjoyed the glimpses of life in Manila like the food and the torrential rain that are a part of life there. Peppered throughout the story are Filipino words that I usually could guess the meanings of within the context. I wish there was a glossary, but I didn't *need* it.
Ellie and Don belonged to the same barkada at work before they started dating. When Don breaks up with Ellie, it's very painful for her, and it's made more so because Don is still within her circle of friends, and he was there first. With Ellie's feelings on her sleeve, things are very awkward with Don, Ellie, and their work barkada. I really felt for Ellie during the breakup and it's aftermath. I think most people have experience with a bad break up. The fallout amongst friends and the little dramas that play out afterwards felt very realistic (the dialogue felt particularly spot on as well). Ellie's situation conjures up those feelings of denial, depression, and bargaining that are part of the grief process, although I wondered and worried about Ellie. She just wouldn't get angry at Don nor would she accept her relationship with him was completely over, but this is obviously the crux of the story.
Ellie has to get herself out of her post-breakup rut and regain control. So she makes some changes like moving to a job in Client Services. She takes some trips alone, and makes friends with Lucas, the cute guy with Rock Star hair. Lucas at first doesn't seem like Ellie's type. He's tattooed, a smoker, and agnostic, and office gossip has him dating one pretty girl after another and fathering a lovechild. For a nice Catholic girl, he hits everything on Ellie's no-no list, but the more she gets to know Lucas, the more she realizes that her first impressions were wrong. They have a charming relationship with the sort of easy conversations you only have with your very best friends. A year later and Ellie is more like her original self:
It isn't exactly a surprise where the story goes from here, but it is nice and satisfying the way it does.
Overall: This was a short and sweet chick lit that charmed me with it's whimsical main character, easy dialogue, and feel-good romance. As a bonus, the Manila setting gave me a glimpse of another culture, and I'm always hungry to learn about places I haven't been.
Review originally posted on my book blog here
The Premise: Ellie Manuel is a young twenty-something working girl and free spirit. She enjoys her job in Marketing, but work is not the end-all and be-all of her life. Travel is her real passion, and can spend hours constructing her next vacation. From what to eat to where to stay, the options are limitless. Ellie is a dreamer for sure, and she is convinced that life is like a fairytale. There are only seven types of stories, but in Ellie's life, she is the Hero, and eventually, she will get her happily ever after. That is why, when her boyfriend Don dumps her because they aren't "in sync", Ellie is sure it's all just a part of her Hero's Journey. Don will come back if she stays true. Then months pass, and Ellie isn't so sure. She gets promoted, makes friends with the cute guy of the office, and begins to feel happy, without Don. Wasn't Don her True Love? Or was she mistaken?
My Thoughts: It was very interesting to read about life in the corporate world that's so different from mine. Not only do I know nothing about Marketing or Client Services, but the corporate culture in Ellie's life sounds so different. Just the fact that there were a lot of young people in Ellie's office blew me away (there is a serious dearth of people my age where I work), but that there is a social life among them? I'm jealous. I loved the concept of the barkadas - circles of friends and how they tied into the story. How social the work culture seems! I also enjoyed the glimpses of life in Manila like the food and the torrential rain that are a part of life there. Peppered throughout the story are Filipino words that I usually could guess the meanings of within the context. I wish there was a glossary, but I didn't *need* it.
Ellie and Don belonged to the same barkada at work before they started dating. When Don breaks up with Ellie, it's very painful for her, and it's made more so because Don is still within her circle of friends, and he was there first. With Ellie's feelings on her sleeve, things are very awkward with Don, Ellie, and their work barkada. I really felt for Ellie during the breakup and it's aftermath. I think most people have experience with a bad break up. The fallout amongst friends and the little dramas that play out afterwards felt very realistic (the dialogue felt particularly spot on as well). Ellie's situation conjures up those feelings of denial, depression, and bargaining that are part of the grief process, although I wondered and worried about Ellie. She just wouldn't get angry at Don nor would she accept her relationship with him was completely over, but this is obviously the crux of the story.
Ellie has to get herself out of her post-breakup rut and regain control. So she makes some changes like moving to a job in Client Services. She takes some trips alone, and makes friends with Lucas, the cute guy with Rock Star hair. Lucas at first doesn't seem like Ellie's type. He's tattooed, a smoker, and agnostic, and office gossip has him dating one pretty girl after another and fathering a lovechild. For a nice Catholic girl, he hits everything on Ellie's no-no list, but the more she gets to know Lucas, the more she realizes that her first impressions were wrong. They have a charming relationship with the sort of easy conversations you only have with your very best friends. A year later and Ellie is more like her original self:
"Ellie the Free Spirit was the girl [Don] fell in love with, the kind of person he kept comparing Ellie the Girlfriend to, and apparently by being away from him I was restoring myself to that state."
It isn't exactly a surprise where the story goes from here, but it is nice and satisfying the way it does.
Overall: This was a short and sweet chick lit that charmed me with it's whimsical main character, easy dialogue, and feel-good romance. As a bonus, the Manila setting gave me a glimpse of another culture, and I'm always hungry to learn about places I haven't been.
May 11, 2010
Fairy Tale Fail really is a cute book, one that has the right amount of fluff and life lessons for the everyday working girl. It’s very easy to relate to Ellie, the protagonist, with her fairy tale whims and romanticism. While I never had a Prince Charming like her, I knew the feeling of wanting to have a fairy tale romance, one where I have a set guide for who Prince Charming should be. I know about obsessing about a guy, and I sort of know how it feels to restoring yourself when experiencing a loss.
I have to admit that like Ellie, I think I’d also prefer to have a guy like Don, but I would find someone like Lucas intriguing. Out of my league, but very intriguing. Lucas and Ellie’s development was done gradually, and it was nice to see that it wasn’t a rushed romance — nothing is more disappointing than a rushed romance in a chick lit novel, I swear. Lucas seemed sexy, yet he had a good heart, even if he seemed a bit hard to see. I kind of wish I got to know more of him through the story, but since the story was told in Ellie’s point of view, we only know as much as she does.
Here’s my favorite part (a spoiler, so if you’re reading/planning to read this, skip this!):
“You think you’re funny,” I said ruefully. “I have no idea what my life is going to be like now.”
…”You told me that your life wasn’t all about work. That you had a lot of things you looked forward to when you got out of the office…Then that’s exactly what your life is going to be. You’ve still got your family, your hobbies, your friends, and none of that will change…And I’m probably going to, you know, start calling. Driving you home. Taking you to movies you hate…And then you’ll probably want to introduce me to your mom. Your nephew Dylan will love me because kids like me, and I’ll tell him about my brother’s job and our pirate story, and he’ll just be so attached to me. And then you’ll want me to go to church again, and we’ll probably discuss that at length. But I probably will go to church with you at least once, and it will be in your college church, to erase the memory of what that douche did there.”
Ah Lucas. Where can I find someone like you? ♥ Fairy Tale Fail is a fresh and cute story that’s sure to make you sigh and be kilig. :)
I have to admit that like Ellie, I think I’d also prefer to have a guy like Don, but I would find someone like Lucas intriguing. Out of my league, but very intriguing. Lucas and Ellie’s development was done gradually, and it was nice to see that it wasn’t a rushed romance — nothing is more disappointing than a rushed romance in a chick lit novel, I swear. Lucas seemed sexy, yet he had a good heart, even if he seemed a bit hard to see. I kind of wish I got to know more of him through the story, but since the story was told in Ellie’s point of view, we only know as much as she does.
Here’s my favorite part (a spoiler, so if you’re reading/planning to read this, skip this!):
“You think you’re funny,” I said ruefully. “I have no idea what my life is going to be like now.”
…”You told me that your life wasn’t all about work. That you had a lot of things you looked forward to when you got out of the office…Then that’s exactly what your life is going to be. You’ve still got your family, your hobbies, your friends, and none of that will change…And I’m probably going to, you know, start calling. Driving you home. Taking you to movies you hate…And then you’ll probably want to introduce me to your mom. Your nephew Dylan will love me because kids like me, and I’ll tell him about my brother’s job and our pirate story, and he’ll just be so attached to me. And then you’ll want me to go to church again, and we’ll probably discuss that at length. But I probably will go to church with you at least once, and it will be in your college church, to erase the memory of what that douche did there.”
Ah Lucas. Where can I find someone like you? ♥ Fairy Tale Fail is a fresh and cute story that’s sure to make you sigh and be kilig. :)
April 11, 2011
Wow, that was a quick read. It felt like I just sat down to read it, and already I'm done with it.
I picked up this book just for variety. I realized I hadn't been reading any chicklit lately, and with some reviews lavishing praises upon this novel, I thought I'd give it a try.
The verdict in two words: just okay. Nothing exceptional, nothing bad, either. And for someone who is writing in a second language (I am just presuming that it is, the author being Filipina), I think that her writing was clear and fluid. The plot isn't exceptional either, nor are the characters exactly unforgettable. Plot-wise, well, it was predictable (of course she's going to end up with that guy, like you didn't know...). So... the book was really just... okay.
One comment, however. She made use of Tagalog words like "kuya" and "barkada" among others without the proper translations. A foreigner reading the book would've found the translations helpful, and would appreciate the non-necessity for an English-Tagalog dictionary.
Okay for a light reading. Three stars should do. :)
I picked up this book just for variety. I realized I hadn't been reading any chicklit lately, and with some reviews lavishing praises upon this novel, I thought I'd give it a try.
The verdict in two words: just okay. Nothing exceptional, nothing bad, either. And for someone who is writing in a second language (I am just presuming that it is, the author being Filipina), I think that her writing was clear and fluid. The plot isn't exceptional either, nor are the characters exactly unforgettable. Plot-wise, well, it was predictable (of course she's going to end up with that guy, like you didn't know...). So... the book was really just... okay.
One comment, however. She made use of Tagalog words like "kuya" and "barkada" among others without the proper translations. A foreigner reading the book would've found the translations helpful, and would appreciate the non-necessity for an English-Tagalog dictionary.
Okay for a light reading. Three stars should do. :)
September 6, 2012
Fairy Tale Fail introduces readers to Ellie. A girl in her twenties who believes life is like a fairy tale, and she falls in love with the idea of a happily ever after – oh girl, are you in for a huge reality check!
Fairy Tale Fail kind of reminds me of the movie, Legally Blonde. You know, the movie where this blonde girl gets dumped by her boyfriend, and she goes into law school where the guy is at and tries to prove herself so that he’d take her back. But in the end the guy’s a douche and she realizes she doesn’t want the guy anymore – something like that.
I think (and correct me if I’m wrong) that this book is the shortest one I’ve read from Mina Esguerra. I guess that’s one reason I find myself speechless over reading this book – uh, dumbstruck (?) might be more appropriate (since I’m typing all this). It doesn’t have the kind of foundation or character development like the other books have.
Ellie is a good character, but she’s not as memorable as the rest of the protagonists from the author’s other books. Same goes with the leading man, Lucas is okay. But I didn’t get to know him that much so I can’t really say I like him. But if I had to choose between him and Don, I’d say Lucas all the way. I’ve been with someone like Don, and I hated the way I was told I’m not ready for this and that because I’m not “dedicated” enough to the job at hand. Dude, seriously, lay off! Been there, done that! Trust me, they always think they know better on how you should live your life.
What stood out for me while reading this is the way Ellie portrayed a strong kind of woman. She never really needed to change in the first place just so she could find true love. I think that’s one important matter that women should come to realize.
So yeah, it was good, just too short. But I say, “Yay!” to women empowerment. :)
For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com
Fairy Tale Fail kind of reminds me of the movie, Legally Blonde. You know, the movie where this blonde girl gets dumped by her boyfriend, and she goes into law school where the guy is at and tries to prove herself so that he’d take her back. But in the end the guy’s a douche and she realizes she doesn’t want the guy anymore – something like that.
I think (and correct me if I’m wrong) that this book is the shortest one I’ve read from Mina Esguerra. I guess that’s one reason I find myself speechless over reading this book – uh, dumbstruck (?) might be more appropriate (since I’m typing all this). It doesn’t have the kind of foundation or character development like the other books have.
Ellie is a good character, but she’s not as memorable as the rest of the protagonists from the author’s other books. Same goes with the leading man, Lucas is okay. But I didn’t get to know him that much so I can’t really say I like him. But if I had to choose between him and Don, I’d say Lucas all the way. I’ve been with someone like Don, and I hated the way I was told I’m not ready for this and that because I’m not “dedicated” enough to the job at hand. Dude, seriously, lay off! Been there, done that! Trust me, they always think they know better on how you should live your life.
What stood out for me while reading this is the way Ellie portrayed a strong kind of woman. She never really needed to change in the first place just so she could find true love. I think that’s one important matter that women should come to realize.
So yeah, it was good, just too short. But I say, “Yay!” to women empowerment. :)
For more of my reviews, please visit my blog:
The Blair Book Project @ www.theblairbookproject.blogspot.com
August 11, 2010
Restless Ellie is always looking for excitement and her own fairy tale. Not surprising then that her hobby is researching and planning travel/trips abroad.
I enjoyed this novella. It’s not a “girly” romance but it is an easy read. While there were times I would’ve liked to have shaken Ellie, her blinkered outlook added to the characterisation. Set in Manila, the story also gives a glimpse into another culture. I learned a few Filipino terms like “barkada” and “kuya” that I hadn’t come across before.
Recommended for anyone looking for a quick, entertaining read.
I enjoyed this novella. It’s not a “girly” romance but it is an easy read. While there were times I would’ve liked to have shaken Ellie, her blinkered outlook added to the characterisation. Set in Manila, the story also gives a glimpse into another culture. I learned a few Filipino terms like “barkada” and “kuya” that I hadn’t come across before.
Recommended for anyone looking for a quick, entertaining read.
October 10, 2018
This is my first Mina V. Esguerra book and I'm so happy that I started with this one!
I had so much fun reading this. I can totally see myself in the MC which is Ellie (an overthinker and a hopeless romantic). The struggles that she had in finding the "perfect guy" / "Mr. Right" were very relatable. Especially the certain qualities that should be met by the person she dates (religion, same values, mom's seal of approval).
Aside from the romance aspect, I also loved how the dynamics of her job was discussed. I can totally relate to the certain comments about Ellie's attitude about her job/career and I was inspired by her journey to self-improvement; that includes being passionate about her job!
Now let's talk about the guys! Don is perceived as the nice guy but in reality he's not. He is a total jerk. I've met quite a few Dons so be careful with the nice guy act! Ha! Then there's Lucas, the mysterious, seemingly bad boy but is actually a cinnamon roll!
This is a short but sweet read and I highly recommend this! Looking forward to read Mina V. Esguerra's other books! 💜
That point in a relationship when you realize that instead of "happily ever after," you're apparently just a few paragraphs below "once upon a time"? It sucks.
"Yeah, well, if people want to give their heart and soul to their job, then good for them. My work doesn't define me."
"It was like I could, for once, let my life actually happen and not obsess over every detail."
"Because he made me feel like it was always the right time. Never too soon or too late. Regrets had their place in the past, those things that made us interesting and hopefully smarter, that helped explain why we moved with caution about everything else."
Soundtrack: Terrified by Katharine McPhee
I had so much fun reading this. I can totally see myself in the MC which is Ellie (an overthinker and a hopeless romantic). The struggles that she had in finding the "perfect guy" / "Mr. Right" were very relatable. Especially the certain qualities that should be met by the person she dates (religion, same values, mom's seal of approval).
Aside from the romance aspect, I also loved how the dynamics of her job was discussed. I can totally relate to the certain comments about Ellie's attitude about her job/career and I was inspired by her journey to self-improvement; that includes being passionate about her job!
Now let's talk about the guys! Don is perceived as the nice guy but in reality he's not. He is a total jerk. I've met quite a few Dons so be careful with the nice guy act! Ha! Then there's Lucas, the mysterious, seemingly bad boy but is actually a cinnamon roll!
This is a short but sweet read and I highly recommend this! Looking forward to read Mina V. Esguerra's other books! 💜
That point in a relationship when you realize that instead of "happily ever after," you're apparently just a few paragraphs below "once upon a time"? It sucks.
"Yeah, well, if people want to give their heart and soul to their job, then good for them. My work doesn't define me."
"It was like I could, for once, let my life actually happen and not obsess over every detail."
"Because he made me feel like it was always the right time. Never too soon or too late. Regrets had their place in the past, those things that made us interesting and hopefully smarter, that helped explain why we moved with caution about everything else."
Soundtrack: Terrified by Katharine McPhee
November 3, 2016
Faily Tale Fail is my third book for Mina Esguerra, and so far, in all fairness to her, she never fails to amuse me with her stories. Just like the two other books by Mina Esguerra that I've read, this novella's plot is cute, easy to read and has the "kilig" moments that I can easily relate to.
Generally, the story is not something that is so unique and different for me because I've read some stories with similar plot. What I like most about this book are the characters and the setting. I always love reading novels with stories that remind me of some feelings and situations I had before or with characters that I can relate to myself or remind me of someone I know. Apparently, Don and Lucas reminds me of two guys I used to like before so I really cant help but smile the whole time I was reading this book hahaha!
Reading is my past time so I read books for pleasure and entertainment purposes, and a good book for me, is usually something that would make me smile and think happy thoughts all through out the time that Im reading it and of course, as I've mentioned earlier, the story should be something that I can easily relate to in one way or another.
Like Ellie, I am free-spirited, loves travelling and admittedly a hopeless romantic. If I would have a Prince Charming of my own, I would like to him to be Mr. Perfect, with stable job, hardworking,gentleman, no vices and all that, just like Don. I would like to meet him as an "aloof and arrogant guy who gets over himself and reveals his other side – sensitive, caring and responsible" but I would like him also to be someone who shares the same principles and interest with me and supportive of my passion. Sometimes, Mr. Perfect is not necessarily Mr. Right and if you insist that the fairy tale that you've designed is something that involves Mr. Perfect and Mr. Right as the same person,then things would definitely turn out differently from happily ever after.
This is the reason why Ellie's first relationship did not end up well. She keeps on insisting that Mr. Perfect is the right man for her and she holds on to her fantasy that their break-up is part of the test so she can't move on and be happy.
Having not able to experience the break-up that Ellie had, I know I dont have the right to talk about getting over and moving on but my feminist side always makes me want to hit people like Ellie in the head for holding on to undeserving guys like Don. And in a fairy tale, there is always this knight in shining armour so here comes Lucas, the cool and fun-to-be-with and definitely the better guy, but she could not accept because he is not the good guy she thought she want. So when she finally realize that Don is not the right one for her I kind of felt so relieved and happy that she ended up with the right guy.
Generally, the story is not something that is so unique and different for me because I've read some stories with similar plot. What I like most about this book are the characters and the setting. I always love reading novels with stories that remind me of some feelings and situations I had before or with characters that I can relate to myself or remind me of someone I know. Apparently, Don and Lucas reminds me of two guys I used to like before so I really cant help but smile the whole time I was reading this book hahaha!
Reading is my past time so I read books for pleasure and entertainment purposes, and a good book for me, is usually something that would make me smile and think happy thoughts all through out the time that Im reading it and of course, as I've mentioned earlier, the story should be something that I can easily relate to in one way or another.
Like Ellie, I am free-spirited, loves travelling and admittedly a hopeless romantic. If I would have a Prince Charming of my own, I would like to him to be Mr. Perfect, with stable job, hardworking,gentleman, no vices and all that, just like Don. I would like to meet him as an "aloof and arrogant guy who gets over himself and reveals his other side – sensitive, caring and responsible" but I would like him also to be someone who shares the same principles and interest with me and supportive of my passion. Sometimes, Mr. Perfect is not necessarily Mr. Right and if you insist that the fairy tale that you've designed is something that involves Mr. Perfect and Mr. Right as the same person,then things would definitely turn out differently from happily ever after.
This is the reason why Ellie's first relationship did not end up well. She keeps on insisting that Mr. Perfect is the right man for her and she holds on to her fantasy that their break-up is part of the test so she can't move on and be happy.
Having not able to experience the break-up that Ellie had, I know I dont have the right to talk about getting over and moving on but my feminist side always makes me want to hit people like Ellie in the head for holding on to undeserving guys like Don. And in a fairy tale, there is always this knight in shining armour so here comes Lucas, the cool and fun-to-be-with and definitely the better guy, but she could not accept because he is not the good guy she thought she want. So when she finally realize that Don is not the right one for her I kind of felt so relieved and happy that she ended up with the right guy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 12, 2010
Ellie Manuel is your average twenty something professional. She has a stable relationship with the good guy Don in her corporate barkada and likes to travel in her spare time. What you wouldn’t know from first glance is that she believes in fairy tales. Not just the ones in books, but those in real life. So when her Prince Charming dumps her, Ellie refuses to believe their relationship is over. She figures that her story will just be more tried-and-true-tested than most. After a year of work promotions, exotic vacations, and getting to know the cute stranger at the office, why doesn’t she miss him more?
As soon as I read Chachic’s review of this light and short Filipino chick lit novella I knew it was for me. I just had to wait for a day where I really needed a quick pick-me-up, and when I did it worked wonders. It’s smooth, everyday writing style and succinct descriptions made the reading extremely easy and fast as well as completely entertaining and fun. Ellie is such the quintessential ordinary girl as well that I think you’d find it difficult not to relate to her. I mean she believes in happily ever after fairy tales but is an average, vulnerable and hopelessly hopeful heroine herself – what’s not to like? I couldn’t help but remember my own best-friend-turned-more high school relationship that backfired when we broke up but shared the same group of friends. I found what Ellie said about her myriad groups of friends to be very true to life:
I can see why some readers may become slightly frustrated with her romantic blindness but I connected with the unrealistic hanging onto dreams and ideals especially when it comes to finding Mr. Right. And while we’re on that subject what the pleasant and sometimes confusing surprise the mysterious hottie Lucas turned out to be! At first I thought he was not my type but boy was I wrong. I eagerly and delightedly watched their relationship develop. I wished we got to know him a little better before their story ended but overall Fairy Tale Fail was cute, light, and effortless contemporary chick lit and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Now if only more of Mina Esguerra’s books were available internationally, because I’m dying to read My Imaginary Ex.
As soon as I read Chachic’s review of this light and short Filipino chick lit novella I knew it was for me. I just had to wait for a day where I really needed a quick pick-me-up, and when I did it worked wonders. It’s smooth, everyday writing style and succinct descriptions made the reading extremely easy and fast as well as completely entertaining and fun. Ellie is such the quintessential ordinary girl as well that I think you’d find it difficult not to relate to her. I mean she believes in happily ever after fairy tales but is an average, vulnerable and hopelessly hopeful heroine herself – what’s not to like? I couldn’t help but remember my own best-friend-turned-more high school relationship that backfired when we broke up but shared the same group of friends. I found what Ellie said about her myriad groups of friends to be very true to life:
Some people had one large group of friends, and that was all they needed. I, on the other hand, had many small circles of friends. High school friends, college blockmates, college orgmates, cousins, friends from my first job, the barkada from my current job. These groups all had different personalities – and sometimes I was in the mood for one group and not another.
I can see why some readers may become slightly frustrated with her romantic blindness but I connected with the unrealistic hanging onto dreams and ideals especially when it comes to finding Mr. Right. And while we’re on that subject what the pleasant and sometimes confusing surprise the mysterious hottie Lucas turned out to be! At first I thought he was not my type but boy was I wrong. I eagerly and delightedly watched their relationship develop. I wished we got to know him a little better before their story ended but overall Fairy Tale Fail was cute, light, and effortless contemporary chick lit and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. Now if only more of Mina Esguerra’s books were available internationally, because I’m dying to read My Imaginary Ex.
September 17, 2013
Have you heard about the Hummingbird? Emily Nussbaum wrote about this new television archetype in the New Yorker. The Hummingbird is described as possessing "a primal optimism that amounts to a superpower; she’s generous and idealistic despite plentiful evidence that the world is cruel". They are "idealistic feminine dreamers whose personalities are irritants. They are not merely spunky, but downright obsessive." They are an "alienating-yet-sympathetic" bunch. (Seriously, read the article.)
While listening to Ellie in Fairy Tale Fail (the book is narrated in a conversational manner; think you and Ellie during a coffee break/tsismisan marathon)I kept wondering who she reminded me of. Because she is very familiar. I'm sure you've met your share of Ellies. The so-called hopeless romantics who don't see logic or reason. They are Annoying (with a capital A), and yet you are drawn to their belief that the universe will eventually find its balance. I am reminded of Nussbaum's Hummingbird theory when Ellie mentions the monomyth several times, as if it were the only guide a person can have. Who clings to the monomyth? Who does that? Ellie is insane, but I enjoyed her story.
A good, light read. Bring it with you during a weekend.
While listening to Ellie in Fairy Tale Fail (the book is narrated in a conversational manner; think you and Ellie during a coffee break/tsismisan marathon)I kept wondering who she reminded me of. Because she is very familiar. I'm sure you've met your share of Ellies. The so-called hopeless romantics who don't see logic or reason. They are Annoying (with a capital A), and yet you are drawn to their belief that the universe will eventually find its balance. I am reminded of Nussbaum's Hummingbird theory when Ellie mentions the monomyth several times, as if it were the only guide a person can have. Who clings to the monomyth? Who does that? Ellie is insane, but I enjoyed her story.
A good, light read. Bring it with you during a weekend.
November 25, 2011
Another light and easy romantic short novel from Mina Esguerra. An all-pleasure, definitely no-pressure read. Her stories focus on the love life and lifestyle of the young professional set. Being not so young myself, it is nice to be able to think back to those years in my life through her books (not that there's any similarity considering the generation gap). The short length and no-fuss narrative add to the book's credit as it is just right for this genre. I'd say "keep it coming"!
October 26, 2017
This book just concluded my 2017 Goodreads Reading Challenge! Huzzah!
Painfully relatable, and yet still very much sweet and light.
Word vomit review / Points that I loved:
- BULALO
- The story falls under the office crush trope, which I haven't really read much of, but seem to love.
- MC is a traveler and I admire her passion towards seeing the rest of the world. Makes me wish I was just as eccentric.
- LI might have had the Rock Star looks and personality, but he's still a soft boy to me and I have nothing but love for Lucas.
- It's unreal how the weather and flooding situations easily reminded me of my time in college at UST. This might mean nothing to those who don't get it, but for the Thomasians out there, you'll definitely understand.
I'm not going to lie: one of the main reasons why I wanted to read Fairy Tale Fail by Mina V. Esguerra is because of that kissing scene from #feelsfest2017. Yes, it's a pretty shallow reason to read a book, but I don't care. Because of that, I picked this book up and devoured it in a day. Again, it's fast-paced, it's short, it's sweet, and not to mention heartwarming. It represents hopeless romantics such as myself, and I'm happy I somehow see myself in Ellie Manuel. Another well-recommended 5-star #romanceclass read. :)
Painfully relatable, and yet still very much sweet and light.
Word vomit review / Points that I loved:
- BULALO
- The story falls under the office crush trope, which I haven't really read much of, but seem to love.
- MC is a traveler and I admire her passion towards seeing the rest of the world. Makes me wish I was just as eccentric.
- LI might have had the Rock Star looks and personality, but he's still a soft boy to me and I have nothing but love for Lucas.
- It's unreal how the weather and flooding situations easily reminded me of my time in college at UST. This might mean nothing to those who don't get it, but for the Thomasians out there, you'll definitely understand.
I'm not going to lie: one of the main reasons why I wanted to read Fairy Tale Fail by Mina V. Esguerra is because of that kissing scene from #feelsfest2017. Yes, it's a pretty shallow reason to read a book, but I don't care. Because of that, I picked this book up and devoured it in a day. Again, it's fast-paced, it's short, it's sweet, and not to mention heartwarming. It represents hopeless romantics such as myself, and I'm happy I somehow see myself in Ellie Manuel. Another well-recommended 5-star #romanceclass read. :)
April 4, 2018
Playing catch up with the Chic Manila series, which I’ve read a little out of order. This was pretty short, but I loved it. I really like the voice it was written in—Ellie has a wry tone, and she tries so hard to convince herself that she wants her ex back. Most romance novels don’t deal with someone actively trying to get their ex back when the new love interest appears. But I had faith she’d see the light eventually! Sometimes you need to be offered exactly what you thought you wanted to realize you don’t want it anymore. That’s kind of what happens here.
March 19, 2012
I think the book was okay and I didn't exactly like it. BUT as a book, it is more of a three. So I give it three!
This is my first read from the "chick lit" genre, so that could explain my not having liked it very much, which isn't the same as disliking it. I've avoided the genre all these years and didn't even buy a book by some people I know. Picking up this book is a big deal and this is all because of the author, Mina Esguerra. Plus, I really really really support Pinoy writers!
Fairy Tale Fail, as a book, has a lot of elements in play. The reference to the fairy tale motif was one good point I liked. However, I was expecting a more organic (to use literary shiz words to mask my incapacity to express my thoughts) use of it in the novel. Considering the length of the book, though, that's out of the question.
Ellie, the heroine, is neither typical nor perfect, which I liked. The bad-boy-who-is-really-a-good-guy, and v.v., has been done by others I suppose. But I prefer bad guys ala Rock Star anyway. ;)
Since I work at the office, the setting and the scenes were also fun to imagine. If only we had a Rock Star here.... Lol!
One downside is how the book felt short or abrupt. While I'm not a fan of chick lit, I still sort of wanted more drama and kilig moments. Overall, it was a good and quick weekend read.
This is my first read from the "chick lit" genre, so that could explain my not having liked it very much, which isn't the same as disliking it. I've avoided the genre all these years and didn't even buy a book by some people I know. Picking up this book is a big deal and this is all because of the author, Mina Esguerra. Plus, I really really really support Pinoy writers!
Fairy Tale Fail, as a book, has a lot of elements in play. The reference to the fairy tale motif was one good point I liked. However, I was expecting a more organic (to use literary shiz words to mask my incapacity to express my thoughts) use of it in the novel. Considering the length of the book, though, that's out of the question.
Ellie, the heroine, is neither typical nor perfect, which I liked. The bad-boy-who-is-really-a-good-guy, and v.v., has been done by others I suppose. But I prefer bad guys ala Rock Star anyway. ;)
Since I work at the office, the setting and the scenes were also fun to imagine. If only we had a Rock Star here.... Lol!
One downside is how the book felt short or abrupt. While I'm not a fan of chick lit, I still sort of wanted more drama and kilig moments. Overall, it was a good and quick weekend read.
August 19, 2011
Two things: I liked it but didn't like one specific thing in it.
I liked that all the characters' reactions and quirks were believable. The hate on the ex-boyfriend parade? Check. The 'Move on. Oh, please move on? Check. But what had me holding back was her 'Woe, is me' schtick. More specifically, I was held back by how blinded she was to what she thought she wanted.
That aside, Fairy Tale Fail reads a lot like those visuals in Batman and Robin fight scenes. Who here remembers those *WHOOSH* or *SMACK* visuals? FTF reminds me of those for some reason. The dialogue is fast paced; the writing in general was lightning quick.
The story itself is simple. When Ellie is dumped by one she considers perfect, she has a chance to do things over. Along the way (withsome a lot of glances back,) she rediscovers herself and her passions then kind of/sort of meets a new guy. And said guy? Well, get a load of this, "He always looked clean and he smelled great but his hair was a calculated mess."
These characters felt possible to me. Her moving on (albeit reluctant and slow then stop start at some points) read real to me. Him being the subject of gossip, being called Rock Star'? I bought those things as well!
3/5
I liked that all the characters' reactions and quirks were believable. The hate on the ex-boyfriend parade? Check. The 'Move on. Oh, please move on? Check. But what had me holding back was her 'Woe, is me' schtick. More specifically, I was held back by how blinded she was to what she thought she wanted.
That aside, Fairy Tale Fail reads a lot like those visuals in Batman and Robin fight scenes. Who here remembers those *WHOOSH* or *SMACK* visuals? FTF reminds me of those for some reason. The dialogue is fast paced; the writing in general was lightning quick.
The story itself is simple. When Ellie is dumped by one she considers perfect, she has a chance to do things over. Along the way (with
These characters felt possible to me. Her moving on (albeit reluctant and slow then stop start at some points) read real to me. Him being the subject of gossip, being called Rock Star'? I bought those things as well!
3/5
April 25, 2010
I enjoyed this short novel/novella - cute chick lit set in the Philippines. I really enjoyed Ellie's voice, and Lucas was adorable. I rooted for them to get together, and I'm so glad that Ellie didn't go back to Don. He may have been a "good guy," but he was a "bad boyfriend."
I'm not totally sure I understood the sprinkling of Tagalog words throughout the story, but that didn't detract from my overall understanding. I was hoping for an author's note or glossary at the end to define these words, but I had to settle for Google ;)
The only thing keeping this book from 4 stars is that I wanted more! I wanted to see more of the development of Ellie and Lucas's friendship. What we did get to see was really sweet, and I liked it a lot, but I was left wanting to see more. I love stories in which the "true loves" start out as just friends and the friendship just grows and changes into something more, so this story was just the kind of story I like (could be why I love the Anne of Green Gables books so much - I love to watch the friendship between Anne and Gilbert grow into more).
I will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author.
I'm not totally sure I understood the sprinkling of Tagalog words throughout the story, but that didn't detract from my overall understanding. I was hoping for an author's note or glossary at the end to define these words, but I had to settle for Google ;)
The only thing keeping this book from 4 stars is that I wanted more! I wanted to see more of the development of Ellie and Lucas's friendship. What we did get to see was really sweet, and I liked it a lot, but I was left wanting to see more. I love stories in which the "true loves" start out as just friends and the friendship just grows and changes into something more, so this story was just the kind of story I like (could be why I love the Anne of Green Gables books so much - I love to watch the friendship between Anne and Gilbert grow into more).
I will definitely be on the lookout for more by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2012
I didn't like Fairy Tale Fail.
*****
It didn't work for me. Too short to mean anything. Too shallow for my taste. Fairy Tale Fail is not my kind of story.
I didn't like Ellie. Maybe i just dislike girls in general who are stupid enough pining after an insufferable ex. As for Lucas, nothing special about him, either. Got no swoon from that one.
After reading Interim Goddess of Love, this second Esguerra read is an epic fail.
Don't start with Fairy Tale Fail if you haven't read Mina V. Esguerra. It was too simple to be considered a gem.
*****
It didn't work for me. Too short to mean anything. Too shallow for my taste. Fairy Tale Fail is not my kind of story.
I didn't like Ellie. Maybe i just dislike girls in general who are stupid enough pining after an insufferable ex. As for Lucas, nothing special about him, either. Got no swoon from that one.
After reading Interim Goddess of Love, this second Esguerra read is an epic fail.
Don't start with Fairy Tale Fail if you haven't read Mina V. Esguerra. It was too simple to be considered a gem.
December 18, 2012
Fairy Tale Fail is a short chick lit story about Ellie, a girl who was broken up with recently by her boyfriend Don.
So, she was a bit broken heart at first, but then, she found her way out of the sadness and learned that after every problem, the sun would always shine on you and give you a, maybe, happy ending.
I really loved this book! Well, it might be short but it still made me realize that after every heartbreak, well, not everything's gonna end. Like in this book, it showed that Ellie became a much more better person after her and Don's breakup and that oh well, she'll find someone better (and sweeter:)) like Lucas :))
I really, really liked the last part when Ellie and Lucas were talking. So cuuuute :))
So, she was a bit broken heart at first, but then, she found her way out of the sadness and learned that after every problem, the sun would always shine on you and give you a, maybe, happy ending.
I really loved this book! Well, it might be short but it still made me realize that after every heartbreak, well, not everything's gonna end. Like in this book, it showed that Ellie became a much more better person after her and Don's breakup and that oh well, she'll find someone better (and sweeter:)) like Lucas :))
I really, really liked the last part when Ellie and Lucas were talking. So cuuuute :))
July 22, 2011
As posted in my facebook status: I love this book. I was so moved while reading. At first I cried, then was filled with anger, then I got stuck with this emotion and heard myself say out loud "he's an ass! he's an ass!" and then I think there's a couple of scenes that made me laugh out loud, some part where i was laughing out loud then was also teary-eyed at the same time. And then there were pages where I read over and over because it was so well written. And then out loud, I'd say "oh my god! oh my god!".
I don't know why some people would not agree but my verdict remains the same: five stars for Mina V. Esguerra! I'm such a fan!
I don't know why some people would not agree but my verdict remains the same: five stars for Mina V. Esguerra! I'm such a fan!
September 24, 2012
(2.5)
This had been on my TBR/wishlist for awhile and I finally got to reading it. I had enjoyed the author's other book, Love Your Frenemies, so I had high hopes for this one. I was disappointed. It was a cute romance story and well written but it just didn't pop for me. As short as it was, I struggled to finish it. I just didn't find it captivating. I didn't care for the swearing either, even though it was very minimal. I just found the book as a whole a bit humdrum and pretentious.
It was not an awful book. I was just expecting it to be more interesting.
Jinky is Reading
This had been on my TBR/wishlist for awhile and I finally got to reading it. I had enjoyed the author's other book, Love Your Frenemies, so I had high hopes for this one. I was disappointed. It was a cute romance story and well written but it just didn't pop for me. As short as it was, I struggled to finish it. I just didn't find it captivating. I didn't care for the swearing either, even though it was very minimal. I just found the book as a whole a bit humdrum and pretentious.
It was not an awful book. I was just expecting it to be more interesting.
Jinky is Reading
Read
October 21, 2012I hate Ellie for sticking to that asshole Don but I like her during the last parts of the book. I wish I can imagine Lucas clearly. I kept imagining the macho guy I see on Showtime (I think he's a football player?) and he's sort of plain (compared to Zach from Mina's My Imaginary Ex -- which I really love) which ruined the whole romantic story for me lol
Anyway, it's good! I really enjoyed reading Mina's books :)
Anyway, it's good! I really enjoyed reading Mina's books :)
May 5, 2015
Read this with the Enchanted soundtrack playing in the background. Perfect day is perfect.
Thank you to Ms. Mina for making this free for a day! Also, congratulations on winning in the Chick Lit category for the 1st Reader's Choice Awards in the ReaderCon last Saturday!!
Thank you to Ms. Mina for making this free for a day! Also, congratulations on winning in the Chick Lit category for the 1st Reader's Choice Awards in the ReaderCon last Saturday!!
November 4, 2014
I love and hate Ellie.
I love that she is carefree but I hate that she believes in fairy tales as much as I do.
I promise to write a comprehensive review of this book as it really made me happy and well, a bit sad too.
But for now, this copy now goes to Kwesi! :D
I love that she is carefree but I hate that she believes in fairy tales as much as I do.
I promise to write a comprehensive review of this book as it really made me happy and well, a bit sad too.
But for now, this copy now goes to Kwesi! :D
June 30, 2015
Mindless and entertaining.
December 10, 2016
Didn't love Ellie's so-called friends, but this was otherwise a very enjoyable read.
January 1, 2018
I loved the ending! Also, I want my own Lucas pretty please.
September 1, 2017
3,5.
Eu sigo amando Mina V. Esguerra? Sigo sim, obg.
É muito interessante eu ter lido a série do começo pro final, porque dá pra perceber o quanto a autora evoluiu (até chegar à obra prima que é Better At Weddings Than You, meu grande amor) e como o potencial sempre esteve ali. Fairy Tale Fail é uma história menor, bem mais rápida que as outras, mas ainda é muito fácil se apaixonar pela escrita da Mina e se relacionar com a personagem. A Ellie, coitada, toda focada nessa fantasia que ela criou e no ex-embuste. E EU GOSTEI MUITO DO LUCAS??? MUITO MESMO??? Ele já tá no meu top 3 par romântico favorito de Chic Manila, junto com o Aaron e o Damon. Eu queria um pouco mais de cenas do Lucas com a Ellie, acho que se o livro fosse um pouco maior, do tamanho dos outros da série, teria mais tempo pra isso, mas eu amei todas as cenas deles juntos!!!
Enfim, gostei! Falta só mais um pra acabar a série e já tô abalada.
Eu sigo amando Mina V. Esguerra? Sigo sim, obg.
É muito interessante eu ter lido a série do começo pro final, porque dá pra perceber o quanto a autora evoluiu (até chegar à obra prima que é Better At Weddings Than You, meu grande amor) e como o potencial sempre esteve ali. Fairy Tale Fail é uma história menor, bem mais rápida que as outras, mas ainda é muito fácil se apaixonar pela escrita da Mina e se relacionar com a personagem. A Ellie, coitada, toda focada nessa fantasia que ela criou e no ex-embuste. E EU GOSTEI MUITO DO LUCAS??? MUITO MESMO??? Ele já tá no meu top 3 par romântico favorito de Chic Manila, junto com o Aaron e o Damon. Eu queria um pouco mais de cenas do Lucas com a Ellie, acho que se o livro fosse um pouco maior, do tamanho dos outros da série, teria mais tempo pra isso, mas eu amei todas as cenas deles juntos!!!
Enfim, gostei! Falta só mais um pra acabar a série e já tô abalada.
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