Hansel and Gretel

by Jenni James

A hidden princess and the boy who saves her life.... Hansel's father finds a child lost and alone during a violent thunderstorm. After bringing her in from the tempest, he and his son are startled to discover that she is Gretel, a princess of Larkein--the enemy kingdom their own king has just destroyed. Fearful for her life, Hansel pleads with his father to save her. He believes they can make Gretel good by teaching her their ways. His kindhearted father agrees, but with great trepidation. Ten years later, Gretel has grown into a lovely young woman who both infuriates and drives Hansel to distraction while he attempts to not lose his heart to her. When the Larkein witch comes back in the guise of a beautiful woman and marries their father, everything is set into a tailspin. Now they must figure out their new stepmother's plans and prevent her from destroying them all before it is too late.

Genres: Fairy Tales, Romance, Fantasy, Young Adult, Retellings, Fairy Tale Retellings, Fiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published March 14, 2013

About the author

CLEAN ROMANCE FOR TEENS:

*The Jane Austen Diaries*
Pride & Popularity (Aug 2011)
Persuaded (Aug. 2012)
Emmalee (Jan 2013)
Mansfield Ranch (Dec 2013)
Northanger Alibi (Feb. 2012)
Sensible & Sensational (July 2015)
Sand & Sun (2016)
The Wilsons
Queen Sydney

*Jenni James Faerie Tale Collection*
Beauty and the Beast
Sleeping Beauty
Rumplestiltskin
Cinderella
Hansel and Gretel
Jack and the Beanstalk
Snow White
The Frog Prince
Twelve Dancing Princesses
Rapunzel
The Little Mermaid
Peter Pan
Return to Neverland
The Forgotten Princess
The Princess With the Golden Touch
Little Red Riding Hood
(and more...)

MIDDLE GRADE READERS:
Prince Tennyson (May 2012)

EARLY READERS:

*Andy & Annie Collection*
A Ghost Story
Greeny Meany

WOMEN'S FICTION:

*Revitalizing Jane Series*
Drowning
Swimming
Crawling
Walking
Running
Soaring


CLEAN ROMANCE FOR ADULTS:

*Eternal Realm Series*
Eternity
Destiny
Divinity

Reviews

[Jenni James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book baby has finally been born! I really loved the idea of taking a familiar story and twisting it into a romance. My story is about a hidden princess and the boy who saves her.

It is the first book I have written that has an tie-in to another one. Jack and Jill, from Jack and the Beanstalk, are Hansel and Gretel's children. Watch for their story to come out in just a couple of weeks.

I loved revisiting the world again and I hope you love it too.

This Faerie Tale Collection has been such an enjoyable ride and I've got many more to bring out just this year alone! Thank you to everyone who reads!

I love you all!
Jenni

[Kathy Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will admit that Hansel and Gretel was not a story that I liked too much growing up. No idea why... just didn't like it. When I saw that Jenni was retelling this story with her own little twist, I knew it would be one that I enjoyed! And I was correct! :o)

I loved Hansel from the very beginning! He was funny, loving, the ultimate protector and just all around great guy! He brings a smile to my face just thinking of things he did throughout the book. And Gretel! She's a little feisty thing! But also very sweet and loving!

Hansel and Gretel is a cute, fun, quick read! Perfect for a Sunday afternoon! And I can't wait to read about their kids in Jack and the Beanstalk! It's going to be another good one... I just know it!

I am loving all of Jenni's twists in her Faerie Tale Collections! She just can't release them fast enough for me! :o)

[Megan (ReadingRover) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I really enjoyed this version of Hansel and Gretel with a romantic twist. I think I’ll be reading more of this series of fairytale retellings. Haha when did I ever say I will not read more fairytale retellings!

[Colin · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Jenni Jame’s modern rendition of “Hansel and Gretel,” the reader follows a more age appropriate take on the beloved well known classic. Contrary to the more commonly known story, James uses a more mature writing style which is suitable for young adults who are interested in a fantasy book with a more sophisticated vocabulary, and plot. Staying true to the same characters, James modifies the story line which ultimately results in a book filled with plot twists, love stories, and (in my personal opinion) a more wholesome ending. The use of rhetorical devices, and literary elements makes the book even more detailed, formatted, and enjoyable. With the character work, and immaculate imagery, Jenni Jame’s “Hansel and Gretel,” is sure to satisfy any reader who is looking for an outstanding, page turning fantasy book.
One of the elements that makes the book very detailed and intricate is the use of imagery by James. By providing the reader with complex and descriptive words, the reader is capable of imagining the characters and scenes as if a part of the story. When talking about the witch (otherwise known in the story as Cora,) James is sure to provide a great description of the sinister character. On page eighty eight, paragraph four James writes, “She whirled around, her green eyes flashing a bright yellow. The long locks of her raven hair lifted around her head like a dark halo. Her voice, though soft and barely above a whisper grated and grinded, sending the deepest, vilest chills throughout his heart.” By using imagery and vocabulary such as “vilest,” and “grated and grinded,” the reader is able to get very involved in the characters and what is going on resulting in a more intense and powerful read.
Another literary element that made this fictional story very realistic is the usage of characterization by James. It is very easy to deduce that James put a lot of thought into the characters and their backstories. Being the two main characters, Hansel and Gretel both have phenomenal character work which makes the story even more believable. The dynamic between the two is very amusing towards the beginning of the story as the characters personalities and thoughts towards each other are revealed. After Hansel imposes his sexist comment of a woman's place in the kitchen Gretel grabs a milk carton and, “...dumped the creamy substance over Hansel’s head.” At this part of the story, the characters' personalities become known as Hansel says he, “would endlessly pay for her feistiness,” which is how it becomes apparent to the reader that Hansel and Gretel have a brother/sister-like relationship. They pick on each other and get into quibbles, but also appreciate each other just as real siblings would. This is yet another key to the story which makes the book even more amazing.
In conclusion I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Jame’s writing style, vocabulary, and use of literary elements and rhetorical devices made this book even more entertaining and realistic. Although I would not usually choose the fantasy genre, I was happy that I selected one of these books along with an amazing author. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves childhood stories, but is looking for a more mature and grown-up take. I am interested in seeing a wider selection of this author and her other series of books. All in all, I had a great experience with a great book. (: 10/10

[Lydia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute slight twist on the fairy tale. Personally I would have loved a longer story from such a gifted writer.

[Rmsooon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ive read " hensel and gretel faerie tale collection " ,, i really liked it nice twist ive always wanted this twist ,, i gave it 3.5 out of 5

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Hansel and Gretel retelling was a pleasant surprise! Parts were a bit dark, but the original is pretty dark so it felt appropriate.
.
I'm interested in reading the other fairytale retellings she's written.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute retelling of Hansel and Gretel with some twists. There is Hansel and Gretel, of course, but they are not actually related, and there is the creepy witch that sneeks her way into their lives by marrying Hansel's father and putting an enchantment on him. And then of course what would the story be without the cottage in the woods made of candy. Candy that makes you forget everything except for the fact that you want more candy;) This short story had adventure, magic, and a little sweet romance. I look forward to reading more of Jenni James' Faerie Tale Collection series.

[Tash Junor · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, I really enjoyed this Fairytale retelling by Jenni James. I felt it could have used another plot complication to drag in on a little more, but it was still a relaxing, sweet book. I love these books because instead of adding too many new elements to a fairytale, Jenni simple gives it a new background and back story. Loved Hansel especially!

[Sophie Lyons · Rating 5 out of 5]

a brilliant twist on a classic fairytale

[6thbreed · Rating 2 out of 5]

(1.5 stars)
Age Recommendation: 16 and up? Maybe a little older?
Romantic Content: A character is jealous over a girl dancing with someone else at a party. A character cautions himself not to fall in love with another character, and he makes himself tease her unmercifully. She tells him no one would ever have him. He teases back and says she must have thought of having him herself. He catches her in his arms and puts his leg around her so she can’t get away. The father remarries. The step-mother is blindingly gorgeous. A character alludes to the fact that he has been hopelessly in love for many years, and a girl gets jealous. There’s one portion of the book where characters kiss for quite a while and it’s semi-detailed. There’s another kiss at the end of the book, and allusion to more.
Violent Content: A mention of a whole kingdom being razed to the ground, and the royal family getting murdered. A mention of being executed. A character treats one of the main character’s horribly. Someone gets slapped, and verbally abused. There are threats. Mentions of blood. Mentions of cannibalism. Somebody gets cracked over the head. Mentions of someone dying. Mentions of a character dying in a fire.
Other Negative Content: Evil magic. I don’t think there was swearing?
My Opinion: So, on one hand, this was the second best solely Hansel and Gretel retelling that I’ve ever read. On the other hand, I’ve only read two, so it’s not that impressive.
This book disappointed me. I was a little uncomfortable with the whole adopted-siblings-falling-in-love thing. I’ve shipped others that were thrown together, and it is still legal because they’re not actually related…Maybe it’s because they were legitimately meant to be siblings, not close friends or anything. Like, they called each other brother and sister earlier in the book before the attraction started!
I do think that while the physical romantic aspects were cleanish for the most part, it definitely would have fueled some romantic daydreams which is why I would recommend this for 16 and up, maybe older. That one scene with the witch was both gross and a cheap plot device. Hansel slowly works his way free from the witch’s spell that is keeping him frozen in place by making out with her because she enjoys kissing so she unfreezes him. *gaaaaaag* I think the kissing was far too detailed and long. Also, I’m expected to believe that this actually worked??? Honestly, that whole part of the story lowered my opinion a lot.
Overall, I would probably give this one a miss unless I was really, really, really desperate for a fairy-tale-retelling specifically focusing on Hansel and Gretel and even then probably not.

[Elentarien · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok. . .so. . .another interesting concept for an old fairy tale. A 'children's story' turned romance. Nice.

However, once again, the concept is never fully realized. We go from a childhood start, to 10 years later or so, when they are adults (or nearly adults) and don't get much time to actually get to know the characters before they're flung into dire straits. Again, there's a bad case of 'instalove' - or so it seems, with the characters bemoaning the fact they are practically brother and sister to being madly in love. . .with no believable transition in between. I mean, personally, I don't have a problem with the romance itself. . .they aren't related, and they both know it. . .but they felt almost like siblings or that they should be. . .and there was no believable wake up to the fact they weren't. Though, on the good side, they knew each other plenty well, and it was mentioned that Hansel was already in love with her. So at least it was not a case of them not knowing each other.

The witch part was just. . .bizarre. Again, no work up. Just *poof* father is getting married, witch moves in and suddenly Gretel is being abused. . .for. . .no apparent reason? I mean, we know the witch knew who she was. . .but . . .what was the point of her being such a b** about it?

Also, the fact that Gretel was just 'taken away' felt a lot like a case of us being 'told' something happened, but we did not actually see it. The whole plot once the witch entered felt very rushed like things couldn't wait to be finished.

I did find the point about the witch eating people very. . .bizarre. . .although, to be fair, this was in the original tale as well and made even less sense. So, kudos to the author for actually coming up with a reason WHY she did this. Though it still lacked explanation of HOW - or if she was even human to start with.

The part where Hansel tricks the witch, kisses her and gets her to let him loose. . .again, felt rushed and out of place in the story. Not so much because it was bad, as much as it felt like there was no 'real' build up to it. It just sort of. . .came out of the blue.

I am also really not sure I care for the part where he kills her. I get it. . .his point was valid. . .however the method seemed. . .more like murder than anything. If he had been fighting with her and she 'was' killed, or if they had tricked her and pushed her in so they could escape, (as in the original) I could see it. But the calculating way he actually did it. . made him more of a bad guy than a hero.

All in all. . .yeah. Interesting concept, but once again, it failed to deliver.

[Diksha Patel · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Hansel and Gretel" by Jenni James is a retelling of the classic fairy tale that unfortunately falls short of expectations. While the story retains some elements of the original tale, it fails to capture the enchantment and depth that make the original so enduring.

One of the main issues with this retelling is the lack of character development. Hansel and Gretel, the central characters of the story, feel flat and underdeveloped. Their motivations and personalities are not fully explored, leaving readers with little connection to them. The supporting characters also suffer from a lack of depth, making it difficult to become emotionally invested in their journey.

The pacing of the story is another drawback. The narrative feels rushed, with key events and plot points glossed over or lacking in detail. This hampers the reader's ability to fully engage with the story and invest in the characters' experiences.

Additionally, the writing style and prose are underwhelming. The dialogue feels forced and unrealistic at times, lacking the authenticity and depth needed to bring the characters to life. The descriptions and imagery are minimal, failing to create a vivid and immersive atmosphere.

Furthermore, the adaptation takes some liberties with the original tale, but these changes do not add much depth or originality to the story. Instead, they come across as superficial and fail to provide a fresh perspective or unique interpretation.

Overall, "Hansel and Gretel" by Jenni James is a disappointing retelling that lacks the depth, character development, and engaging storytelling necessary to bring the story to life. While it may appeal to readers seeking a quick and simple retelling of the fairy tale, it ultimately falls short of its potential to captivate and leave a lasting impression.

[Carinne Gee · Rating 1 out of 5]

Didn't get super far. Just didn't like where the story was going. Hansel and Gretel are raised as siblings and yet Hansel falls in love with Gretel. That's just creepy. Once I realized that this the course of the story, I put it down. Wasn't my thing anyway.....not really sure why I picked it up. I'm not a huge fan of fairy tale re-tellings. But, clean from what I could tell. Just not for me.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like Fairy Tale re-tellings. I really like the books I have read so far from Jenni James so I was pretty excited to read this. The twist is very different and not what I expected, but I do like a good romance. Jenni James created a pretty good villain. This became a page turner for me, which is also surprising.

[AddyJoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book! It was sweet, short, and well told. I honestly considered giving it five stars, however, the romance between Hansel and Gretel at the end seems a little forced. I feel like there would still be some sort of teasing between them, even though they are in love.

[Kent · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoy Jenni James' fairy tales that are re-written & re-imagined & sometimes expanded, tying into one or more subsequent fairy tales.
She does a great job with these & her Jane Austin tales.
For those who like either genres, I highly recommend this & all her books!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very quick read and I enjoyed it so much. I was a little disappointed by how easily the witch was subdued. Also kind of hoped Gretel would become queen. I understand why she didn’t and I do think the ending was good. I just wish the book was longer. I can’t wait for the next Jenni James story!

[Amel Armeliana · Rating 4 out of 5]

A refreshing story about Hansel and Gretel and I loved it.

[Ann Marie · Rating 2 out of 5]

The twist in this story was pretty good but I didn’t like that it turned into a romance, it’s just too convenient and too many things are left open ended.

[Kiersten Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it! So cute and sweet

[Marieke · Rating 2 out of 5]

Makkelijk om te lezen, maar je mist er niks aan als je hem niet leest.

[Ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5.. not sure how I feel about a couple who were raised as siblings falling inlove, although technically not related. Cute little story though.

[aem · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very nice, slightly different retelling...

[Becky S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute tale with a few twist.

[Isabelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved how the twist was that the witch was the stepmother at the same time! What a great tie-up of Hansel and Gretel with elements of Cinderella!

[Bonnie (A Backwards Story)]

This fairy tale is the first to twine together another fairy tale, which will have repercussions on future tales today. Check out today's interview with author Jenni James for more secrets about this interesting turn of events. Hansel and Gretel are older in this tale, no longer children tossed out by their parents due to a lack of food, etc. Instead, Gretel is the long-lost princess from a war-torn kingdom, discovered as a lost child and taken in by Hansel's family. Over the last year, Hansel has found himself with feelings that are no longer brother-like, much as he tries to stamp them out. When his father brings home a new wife, everything changes. There's something off about her, something wrong. She hates Gretel and wants to toss her out, but Hansel will do anything to save but her and his father before it's too late.

When I saw the age of the characters and the inclusion of a princess in hiding, I wondered where Jenni James was going with this retelling. There are, once again, the inclusion of new, original elements to the tale. And the gingerbread house...I haven't seen anything quite like this one! The creepiness reminds me of the sticky candy sweetness from Jackson Pearce's SWEETLY (my review). I don't want to spoil things here, but the way things connect in this version intrigue me. This is also the first time I've seen this retold where Hansel and Gretel aren't from the same family, where Gretel is a princess in hiding. All of these elements added a new factor to the tell. The fact that the father is enchanted by the new wife he brings home is a very familiar twist to many fairy tale fans, but not a twist often seen in Hansel and Gretel. All these new additions help bring an old tale alive again, while still retaining the flavor of a traditional fairy tale.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always think of Hansel and Gretel as two children, lost in the woods, marking their path with bread crumbs and discovering a witch's house that's made out of candy. That's not exactly how things happen in this retelling and I love the twists. There are enough similarities to keep true to the basic outline of the story, but enough changes to make it unique.

Hansel is a tough, strong guy, with a great sense of humor and a way of coping with his feelings that's both annoying and endearing, all at the same time. I couldn't help but adore him! Gretel is a sweet girl, one who goes above and beyond her duties, even with Hansel driving her crazy. The twists on their interactions and associations is a little different, but I found that I liked it. A lot.

I love that these stories are short, yet very entertaining, and can be read in a day or a long sitting, if desired. Things wrapped up a little too quickly for me, but I love the ending and look forward to reading more of these stories, especially now that I understand a few connections.

Content: mild romance, mild violence. Clean!

*I received a copy through Singing Librarian Tours in exchange for an honest review*

[Jennifer Erwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Disclaimer: I was given an ARC of this for a review.
**That doesn't stop me from writing what I really feel about this book.

I discovered Jenni James Faerie Tale collection and became instantly enamored. She has taken the fairy tales we all grew up with and love and has put a different twist on them. She did it yet again with Hansel & Gretel. Her writing just draws you in to the story, and it just flows. I read this tale pretty quickly. I couldn't put it down. I love how it segues into another story (not telling...you'll have to read it to find out) and I can't wait to read it. Jenni James' Faerie Tale collection is one series of books that I really look forward to each one and would love to share with the younger generation. It's great for the young & not so young at heart.

[Stories & Verse · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was the story of a brother sister relationship that developed into a romance. I only gave 2 stars because the romance aspects were downplayed by the intervention of an evil witch;which I guess was the intention of the story. Overall, it was interesting to read how the two escaped the evils, but I thought the development of Hansel and Gretel's relationship should have been in the forefront of the story. There was adventure with little romance... and there was no link between the intentions of the evil witch and their relationship... Though the story has a strong begining, the happily ever after ending lacked a grand finalé effect.