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Once Upon a Time Today #1
Beautiful Beautiful
Kerrin Mayham's eye for beauty has shaped her life. Now a mother, she wants to teach her daughter that beauty can be both nourishing and treacherous. However, Mirabella is far too young to hear the truth of her mother's hard-won knowledge, so Kerrin wraps a fantastical bedtime story of magic shoes, enchanted oak trees, witches, and sad kings around actual events.
As mother tells the story and daughter interjects, Kerrin can't help but return to her past when she was at the pinnacle of her career as an independent film director. Seduced by a beautiful young predator, she takes a risk that puts her life in danger and shakes the core of her identity. Finally forced to ask the hard questions about the demons that drive her, Kerrin doesn't flinch. Her honest answers deepen her experience of life--and her eye for beauty.
The novella is a retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen tale "Beautiful."
Once Upon a Time Today is a collection of contemporary fairy tale retellings for those who have already left home. The Girl Who Believed in Fairy Tales is a prelude to the collection and includes the three short stories:
The Girl Who Watched for Elves
The Girl Who Dreamed of Red Shoes
The Girl Who Couldn't Sing
The novellas:
Beautiful Beautiful
Dreaming of the Sea
The Tree Hugger
I Am Lily Dane
As mother tells the story and daughter interjects, Kerrin can't help but return to her past when she was at the pinnacle of her career as an independent film director. Seduced by a beautiful young predator, she takes a risk that puts her life in danger and shakes the core of her identity. Finally forced to ask the hard questions about the demons that drive her, Kerrin doesn't flinch. Her honest answers deepen her experience of life--and her eye for beauty.
The novella is a retelling of the Hans Christian Andersen tale "Beautiful."
Once Upon a Time Today is a collection of contemporary fairy tale retellings for those who have already left home. The Girl Who Believed in Fairy Tales is a prelude to the collection and includes the three short stories:
The Girl Who Watched for Elves
The Girl Who Dreamed of Red Shoes
The Girl Who Couldn't Sing
The novellas:
Beautiful Beautiful
Dreaming of the Sea
The Tree Hugger
I Am Lily Dane
90 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2013
6 people are currently reading
228 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 29 reviews
November 14, 2013
I received this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!
When I first saw the cover, never in a million years did I thought the story was with fairy tales. I kept reading and I discovered I loved the book! It was interesting, especially because it's told from daughter and mother's point of view. When I was young my mother used to read to me almost every night, and I loved it. I was always proud when I understood the meaning of the story. It's great to see authors these days, that can write such a great book like Beautiful Beautiful. Heidi Garett really managed to make me fall in love with this story.
The book starts with Kerrin Mayham telling her daughter a bed time story, but what the kid doesn't know is this is her mother's true life story. All that she is hearing was her life. Kerrin tries to teach her daughter to learn from her mistakes, and always try to choose the right path. She even tells her about the way she was born, thinking this is a way that she wont make the same mistakes she did.
I really loved this book. Heidi Garett did a brilliant job with the suspense, it made me pay closer attention. It was fun read and I'm happy I had the chance to read it. Thank you! I highly recommend this book!
Favorite Quotes:
“How do you believe in yourself?”
“Whenever you decide to do or make something that’s going to take a lot of hard work, you trust yourself and do the best you can do.”
“Brave.”
“I want to be brave.” Kerrin settled her hand on her daughter’s chest.
“Listen to your heart. That’s what brave people do.”
“But sometimes I listen to my heart, and I get in trouble. You and Daddy get mad at me.”
“You’d be surprised what you can come up with when necessity demands it.”
“Who’s Nessity?”
Kerrin smiled. “A queen who rules the borders between the Enchanted World and the real one.” “Is she mean?”
“She can be, but most of the time she just makes us dig deeper, and when we dig deeper, we find gold.”
“Queen Nessity sounds kind of like my math teacher. Whenever I tell her I can’t do a problem she doesn’t believe me.”
When I first saw the cover, never in a million years did I thought the story was with fairy tales. I kept reading and I discovered I loved the book! It was interesting, especially because it's told from daughter and mother's point of view. When I was young my mother used to read to me almost every night, and I loved it. I was always proud when I understood the meaning of the story. It's great to see authors these days, that can write such a great book like Beautiful Beautiful. Heidi Garett really managed to make me fall in love with this story.
The book starts with Kerrin Mayham telling her daughter a bed time story, but what the kid doesn't know is this is her mother's true life story. All that she is hearing was her life. Kerrin tries to teach her daughter to learn from her mistakes, and always try to choose the right path. She even tells her about the way she was born, thinking this is a way that she wont make the same mistakes she did.
I really loved this book. Heidi Garett did a brilliant job with the suspense, it made me pay closer attention. It was fun read and I'm happy I had the chance to read it. Thank you! I highly recommend this book!
Favorite Quotes:
“How do you believe in yourself?”
“Whenever you decide to do or make something that’s going to take a lot of hard work, you trust yourself and do the best you can do.”
“Brave.”
“I want to be brave.” Kerrin settled her hand on her daughter’s chest.
“Listen to your heart. That’s what brave people do.”
“But sometimes I listen to my heart, and I get in trouble. You and Daddy get mad at me.”
“You’d be surprised what you can come up with when necessity demands it.”
“Who’s Nessity?”
Kerrin smiled. “A queen who rules the borders between the Enchanted World and the real one.” “Is she mean?”
“She can be, but most of the time she just makes us dig deeper, and when we dig deeper, we find gold.”
“Queen Nessity sounds kind of like my math teacher. Whenever I tell her I can’t do a problem she doesn’t believe me.”
November 3, 2013
I received and ARC in return for an honest review.
Beautiful Beautiful by: Heidi Garrett
Kerrin Mayham is living the life of an indie director in Glitter City. Where is Glitter City you ask? Heidi Garrett has written an adult fairy tale based in our version of Hollywood. Who doesn’t love a good fairy tale with several twists and turns? The story follows Kerrin, on a journey to direct a film and maybe fall in love. Will she fall in love with prince charming, or will she fall for a wolf in sheep’s clothing?
I loved Kerrin’s character! I loved her independence, I loved her humor, and I loved her eye for beautiful things! Besides, who doesn’t want a pretty pair of shoes covered in rhinestones! This novella follows the story line of a child like fairly tale to Kerrin’s life in present time. This was a light fun read, and when I least expected it I was given a hint of suspense that really made the book!
There was really nothing about this book that I didn’t love! All I wanted was more! The writing style was good, easy to follow, and humorous in spots. This book is geared towards anyone looking for a fun, easy read, with a hint of your own imagination! I am looking forward to the next book in the Once Upon a Time Today Collection!
Beautiful Beautiful by: Heidi Garrett
Kerrin Mayham is living the life of an indie director in Glitter City. Where is Glitter City you ask? Heidi Garrett has written an adult fairy tale based in our version of Hollywood. Who doesn’t love a good fairy tale with several twists and turns? The story follows Kerrin, on a journey to direct a film and maybe fall in love. Will she fall in love with prince charming, or will she fall for a wolf in sheep’s clothing?
I loved Kerrin’s character! I loved her independence, I loved her humor, and I loved her eye for beautiful things! Besides, who doesn’t want a pretty pair of shoes covered in rhinestones! This novella follows the story line of a child like fairly tale to Kerrin’s life in present time. This was a light fun read, and when I least expected it I was given a hint of suspense that really made the book!
There was really nothing about this book that I didn’t love! All I wanted was more! The writing style was good, easy to follow, and humorous in spots. This book is geared towards anyone looking for a fun, easy read, with a hint of your own imagination! I am looking forward to the next book in the Once Upon a Time Today Collection!
August 28, 2017
3.5 stars
Although romance was throw here and there and on the ending, the psychological element what was drew me most. This book highlighting people action and motivation,in light level.
I said light because it was slightly more than surface but not too deeply in its explore. Maybe because it suppose to be a short story?
If it a long novel, it could be a dark psychological novel, as represented by the bedtime story.
On the note on cover, it's so misleading as a regular 'romance-contemporary' novel instead of 'retelling-with-slightly dark-twist' novel.
Overall a good read.
Although romance was throw here and there and on the ending, the psychological element what was drew me most. This book highlighting people action and motivation,in light level.
I said light because it was slightly more than surface but not too deeply in its explore. Maybe because it suppose to be a short story?
If it a long novel, it could be a dark psychological novel, as represented by the bedtime story.
On the note on cover, it's so misleading as a regular 'romance-contemporary' novel instead of 'retelling-with-slightly dark-twist' novel.
Overall a good read.
November 15, 2013
I was never disappointed when I read this book. There was definitely magic. Not that kind of magic that we saw in our faerytales. There are no spells...no pixie dust...no dragons..but a different kind of magic. This kind of magic touched my heart so deep that it reached my soul.
Kerrin Mayham work so hard to be the Golden Pinnacle 's director of the year. She knows that if she wins this award ,she will be moving up. Which also means bigger projects and making full use of the talent that she knows she had.
Once she finally had that award in her hands, fame started to follow. The biggest project was being handed to her in a silver platter and that includes the casting of this high budgeted film. The search for the lead role , Demion Glass is on.
Hollywood has the abundance of potential leading men to choose from. But Kerrin's full attention was locked when he saw Anthony Zorr. There is something in him that says he's Demion Glass..
“Anthony grinned.
Dawn shimmered across a rising tide.
Kerrin lost track of the conversation. All she saw were those cheekbones, those masculine bow lips, and that stance—not bloated and beefy, just taut. And tan. He glistened. Standing with his hands jammed into his pockets, he gave off an air of bashfulness.
Where had he come from?”
“Kerrin wanted him—she didn’t know for which film, and she didn’t care. She just wanted him in front of her camera, filling frame after frame, with that natural boyish exuberance, at the edge of becoming a man.”
That smile ... from that beautiful boy .... Kerrin was more than intrigue as I am. What's behind that beautiful exterior? Oh , if you ask me? I'd say, TROUBLE is clearly written over Anthony Zorr. But can Kerrin see that?
As I read this book , I found my self entering into the glittering world of showbiz where BEAUTY is everything...
Yes, I imagine all the glitz and glamour...the beautiful actors and actresses ...the eager paparazzi , the flashes of cameras ...all of it. They wanted recognition... they clamor fame. But have been thinking what's behind all of these? Take a closer look... you might even be surprised.
I love how Ms. Heidi Garrett wrote this book. Kerrin's life story was told as a fairytale . And Kerrin was quite a good storyteller herself... sharing this to her daughter , Mirabella each night. I find this scenario very touching as I remember my Mom reading me bedtime stories each night as a child. Every word feels like magic to me and I never grew tired of hearing it again and again. So, when Kerrin told her story, I am Mirabella.
The way Ms. Garrett interweave both reality and faerytale was a wonderful surprise. I never read anything like this... and it was really refreshing.
I loved everything about this book. I wish I could put into words the wonderful experience I've gone through with each page I flipped. It was definitely magical. Like, I was inside the two layers of stories : First, inside Kerrin's life story and secondly , inside her faerytale . These two stories were both weaved into a truth that we all probably search throughout our lives. And at the end of it all, leaves us with this question: What's your beautiful, Beautiful?
What's your Beautiful ,beautiful ? Read this book ...you might just find your answer...just like how I found mine...
***For my full review and a Blog Tour + Giveaway happening from November 11-22, 2013 , please visit my Pink Blog at http://sparklingpinkpages.blogspot.co...
Kerrin Mayham work so hard to be the Golden Pinnacle 's director of the year. She knows that if she wins this award ,she will be moving up. Which also means bigger projects and making full use of the talent that she knows she had.
Once she finally had that award in her hands, fame started to follow. The biggest project was being handed to her in a silver platter and that includes the casting of this high budgeted film. The search for the lead role , Demion Glass is on.
Hollywood has the abundance of potential leading men to choose from. But Kerrin's full attention was locked when he saw Anthony Zorr. There is something in him that says he's Demion Glass..
“Anthony grinned.
Dawn shimmered across a rising tide.
Kerrin lost track of the conversation. All she saw were those cheekbones, those masculine bow lips, and that stance—not bloated and beefy, just taut. And tan. He glistened. Standing with his hands jammed into his pockets, he gave off an air of bashfulness.
Where had he come from?”
“Kerrin wanted him—she didn’t know for which film, and she didn’t care. She just wanted him in front of her camera, filling frame after frame, with that natural boyish exuberance, at the edge of becoming a man.”
That smile ... from that beautiful boy .... Kerrin was more than intrigue as I am. What's behind that beautiful exterior? Oh , if you ask me? I'd say, TROUBLE is clearly written over Anthony Zorr. But can Kerrin see that?
As I read this book , I found my self entering into the glittering world of showbiz where BEAUTY is everything...
Yes, I imagine all the glitz and glamour...the beautiful actors and actresses ...the eager paparazzi , the flashes of cameras ...all of it. They wanted recognition... they clamor fame. But have been thinking what's behind all of these? Take a closer look... you might even be surprised.
I love how Ms. Heidi Garrett wrote this book. Kerrin's life story was told as a fairytale . And Kerrin was quite a good storyteller herself... sharing this to her daughter , Mirabella each night. I find this scenario very touching as I remember my Mom reading me bedtime stories each night as a child. Every word feels like magic to me and I never grew tired of hearing it again and again. So, when Kerrin told her story, I am Mirabella.
The way Ms. Garrett interweave both reality and faerytale was a wonderful surprise. I never read anything like this... and it was really refreshing.
I loved everything about this book. I wish I could put into words the wonderful experience I've gone through with each page I flipped. It was definitely magical. Like, I was inside the two layers of stories : First, inside Kerrin's life story and secondly , inside her faerytale . These two stories were both weaved into a truth that we all probably search throughout our lives. And at the end of it all, leaves us with this question: What's your beautiful, Beautiful?
What's your Beautiful ,beautiful ? Read this book ...you might just find your answer...just like how I found mine...
***For my full review and a Blog Tour + Giveaway happening from November 11-22, 2013 , please visit my Pink Blog at http://sparklingpinkpages.blogspot.co...
November 16, 2013
I don’t usually enjoy contemporaries as much as I do fantasy and science fiction, but this novella pushed all my buttons. Shall we examine these buttons?
Frame narrative
I have a thing for frame narratives. I loved how this one was executed: years later, the heroine tells her seven-year-old daughter the story, but she transforms it into a fairy tale. We’re able to see how the narrative really unfolded, and also how Kerrin relates it to her daughter. We can see how Kerrin changed because of the experience and the lessons she learned.
Writing
The first thing that drew me into the story was the writing. There’s a unique voice and tone, communicating Kerrin’s unique perspective of the world, that I loved.
It was her nature to balance and weigh every element: color; furnishings; space. Ever since she could remember, she assessed each detail of a new physical environment upon entering. Her eye sought asymmetry and dissonance, as much as order and balance, measuring light and angles, to frame the perfect shot in her mind.
This is not only lovely, but it lets us get deeply into Kerrin’s psyche, and discover the why of the things she does throughout the story.
Also, Kerrin’s snarkiness provided some great humorous breaks in the narrative.
Search for beauty
Kerrin has a thing for beauty. It goes beyond liking to look at pretty things–she has a sort of craving for it, which I think she shares with a lot of artists. I really clicked with her from the beginning because of it. The thing is that there are different kinds of beauty, and Kerrin has to learn to tell them apart, as does most of humankind.
This could have been reduced to a Disney-esque “Don’t judge people by their appearances!” and “What matters is what’s on the inside!” but it’s a lot more complicated than that. The story is really about examining beauty through Kerrin’s eyes, not as a simple dichotomy, but as a nuanced part of human experience.
Film industry
As you might have gathered from the blurb, the story takes place in the setting of the film industry. The level of detail and authority in portraying the ins and outs of the film industry gave a solid base and a ring of truth to the whole story. Kudos for that!
Creepiness
I was never bored by the story, but at a certain point, I started to get really nervous and creeped out, and I couldn’t put the book down. It wasn’t the things that were happening–although those unnerved me plenty–but the introspection that these events force on Kerrin. I think this plays on a universal fear and insecurity–that our perception is wrong, that we’re not who we think we are, that we’re broken.
All summed up, I enjoyed Beautiful Beautiful a whole lot, and I think that if any of the elements I mentioned appeal to you, you will, too. However, it does have adult language and adult situations, so keep that in mind.
Frame narrative
I have a thing for frame narratives. I loved how this one was executed: years later, the heroine tells her seven-year-old daughter the story, but she transforms it into a fairy tale. We’re able to see how the narrative really unfolded, and also how Kerrin relates it to her daughter. We can see how Kerrin changed because of the experience and the lessons she learned.
Writing
The first thing that drew me into the story was the writing. There’s a unique voice and tone, communicating Kerrin’s unique perspective of the world, that I loved.
It was her nature to balance and weigh every element: color; furnishings; space. Ever since she could remember, she assessed each detail of a new physical environment upon entering. Her eye sought asymmetry and dissonance, as much as order and balance, measuring light and angles, to frame the perfect shot in her mind.
This is not only lovely, but it lets us get deeply into Kerrin’s psyche, and discover the why of the things she does throughout the story.
Also, Kerrin’s snarkiness provided some great humorous breaks in the narrative.
Search for beauty
Kerrin has a thing for beauty. It goes beyond liking to look at pretty things–she has a sort of craving for it, which I think she shares with a lot of artists. I really clicked with her from the beginning because of it. The thing is that there are different kinds of beauty, and Kerrin has to learn to tell them apart, as does most of humankind.
This could have been reduced to a Disney-esque “Don’t judge people by their appearances!” and “What matters is what’s on the inside!” but it’s a lot more complicated than that. The story is really about examining beauty through Kerrin’s eyes, not as a simple dichotomy, but as a nuanced part of human experience.
Film industry
As you might have gathered from the blurb, the story takes place in the setting of the film industry. The level of detail and authority in portraying the ins and outs of the film industry gave a solid base and a ring of truth to the whole story. Kudos for that!
Creepiness
I was never bored by the story, but at a certain point, I started to get really nervous and creeped out, and I couldn’t put the book down. It wasn’t the things that were happening–although those unnerved me plenty–but the introspection that these events force on Kerrin. I think this plays on a universal fear and insecurity–that our perception is wrong, that we’re not who we think we are, that we’re broken.
All summed up, I enjoyed Beautiful Beautiful a whole lot, and I think that if any of the elements I mentioned appeal to you, you will, too. However, it does have adult language and adult situations, so keep that in mind.
October 15, 2020
Kerrin has made the climb from intern to actress to director, and while her hard work and vision has paid off, she's finally getting the industry recognition she deserves. With her prestigious award comes new opportunities, including working with a big budget studio and screen testing the most beautiful man she's ever laid eyes on.
Anthony is a mystery. While he seems simple and unassuming, there are hints of shadows, from the way they hardly speak with each other to his frequent stays in the restroom -- where one (along with Kerrin) can only assume he's indulging in illicit drugs. Though if the book cover is any indication, I can certainly understand why Kerrin doesn't question anything at first. In fact, I'm pretty sure it was the cover that had me so intrigued in the first place.
The story is told from Kerrin's point of view in the form of a fantastical fairy tale in which she indulges her daughter. Witches, never-ending spiral staircases, and fantasy foretell each real-world chapter that follows, hinting at danger and deceit. At first, I thought it was an interesting way to introduce the story, though by the time I was halfway through, I was tempted to skip those scenes altogether. They just felt so unnecessary and took me out of the moment too often.
However, the classification of "romance" for this story is extremely misleading. Kerrin's relationship with Anthony is absolutely casual; he shows up, they go to bed, and he leaves in the morning. As even the smallest details of their coupling are not shared with readers, it's impossible to gain any real perspective of the true nature of their relationship. In fact, aside from knowing he's to-die-for gorgeous, we're not told much about him until after he shows a much darker side. Even then, the facts are shared by the police, not Kerrin or Anthony himself. As for romance, the part where finally our princess does end up with a prince, it is practically non-existent. Sure, we know from the fact that Kerrin's essentially telling her daughter her own story that there is a happily ever after. But the only semi-romantic scene is when Kerrin is finally asked out on a date by the true Prince Charming -- someone we barely get a glimpse of before the story ends.
Had the story not been so short, I doubt I would have even finished it. Far from being a romance (as it was billed), it's one woman's cautionary tale relating how she very nearly fell into a trap before finding her happily ever after -- an event that is mentioned but doesn't play out for us in the book. I went in expecting quite a bit more than I got, or at least expecting some romance, and I was ultimately disappointed.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Anthony is a mystery. While he seems simple and unassuming, there are hints of shadows, from the way they hardly speak with each other to his frequent stays in the restroom -- where one (along with Kerrin) can only assume he's indulging in illicit drugs. Though if the book cover is any indication, I can certainly understand why Kerrin doesn't question anything at first. In fact, I'm pretty sure it was the cover that had me so intrigued in the first place.
The story is told from Kerrin's point of view in the form of a fantastical fairy tale in which she indulges her daughter. Witches, never-ending spiral staircases, and fantasy foretell each real-world chapter that follows, hinting at danger and deceit. At first, I thought it was an interesting way to introduce the story, though by the time I was halfway through, I was tempted to skip those scenes altogether. They just felt so unnecessary and took me out of the moment too often.
However, the classification of "romance" for this story is extremely misleading. Kerrin's relationship with Anthony is absolutely casual; he shows up, they go to bed, and he leaves in the morning. As even the smallest details of their coupling are not shared with readers, it's impossible to gain any real perspective of the true nature of their relationship. In fact, aside from knowing he's to-die-for gorgeous, we're not told much about him until after he shows a much darker side. Even then, the facts are shared by the police, not Kerrin or Anthony himself. As for romance, the part where finally our princess does end up with a prince, it is practically non-existent. Sure, we know from the fact that Kerrin's essentially telling her daughter her own story that there is a happily ever after. But the only semi-romantic scene is when Kerrin is finally asked out on a date by the true Prince Charming -- someone we barely get a glimpse of before the story ends.
Had the story not been so short, I doubt I would have even finished it. Far from being a romance (as it was billed), it's one woman's cautionary tale relating how she very nearly fell into a trap before finding her happily ever after -- an event that is mentioned but doesn't play out for us in the book. I went in expecting quite a bit more than I got, or at least expecting some romance, and I was ultimately disappointed.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2013
“Just living is not enough," said the butterfly, "one must have sunshine, freedom, and a little flower.”
― Hans Christian Andersen
Have you ever felt the blurb of the book you want to read mislead you when you finish reading the book? I often feel that way. When I want to read a book, I usually check on the blurb first, if it isn’t from my favorite authors. Sometimes it suits with the story and I really enjoy it but other times it doesn’t do the story justice. The blurb of this novella is one of those misleading blurbs, but in a good way, the opposite of what I used to feel. This story has so much more and an interesting one than what the blurb said.
From the blurb I can tell that it is divided into 2 parts. One part is when Kerrin tells her daughter a bedtime story. A story that has a fairy tale vibe which is in fact is her life that leads me to second parts. The more I read, I didn’t think Kerrin fairy tale was suitable for her daughter, Mibi. It was too dark and heavy for her. But then I think it was her way to show Mibi about life and beauty in the simplest way and was her way to deal with her past. Both parts intertwined each other. What she couldn’t tell Mibi, she told me through third person narrative. And at the same time, I understand her feeling of her own fairy tale. She’s smart, witty and always feels lonely. In some part I want to tell her to stop thinking of being a victim of her past and glad when she finally can get through it.
But what I most love from this novella is its unpredictable story. Although from the first line I’ve already known who Kerrin will be with, it can kept me thinking why and how she will be with him. I just love the surprises and twists in it. It’s like whatever what I thought the story will go, it ended up surprised me. I think it was kind of useless to guess it. Maybe it was because I haven’t read Beauty of Foam and Beauty of Mind by Hans Christian Andersen which is the source of this retelling, but I think even if you’ve read it you can still enjoy this story. It’s well written with good plot and different from fairy tale that I used to read.
― Hans Christian Andersen
Have you ever felt the blurb of the book you want to read mislead you when you finish reading the book? I often feel that way. When I want to read a book, I usually check on the blurb first, if it isn’t from my favorite authors. Sometimes it suits with the story and I really enjoy it but other times it doesn’t do the story justice. The blurb of this novella is one of those misleading blurbs, but in a good way, the opposite of what I used to feel. This story has so much more and an interesting one than what the blurb said.
From the blurb I can tell that it is divided into 2 parts. One part is when Kerrin tells her daughter a bedtime story. A story that has a fairy tale vibe which is in fact is her life that leads me to second parts. The more I read, I didn’t think Kerrin fairy tale was suitable for her daughter, Mibi. It was too dark and heavy for her. But then I think it was her way to show Mibi about life and beauty in the simplest way and was her way to deal with her past. Both parts intertwined each other. What she couldn’t tell Mibi, she told me through third person narrative. And at the same time, I understand her feeling of her own fairy tale. She’s smart, witty and always feels lonely. In some part I want to tell her to stop thinking of being a victim of her past and glad when she finally can get through it.
But what I most love from this novella is its unpredictable story. Although from the first line I’ve already known who Kerrin will be with, it can kept me thinking why and how she will be with him. I just love the surprises and twists in it. It’s like whatever what I thought the story will go, it ended up surprised me. I think it was kind of useless to guess it. Maybe it was because I haven’t read Beauty of Foam and Beauty of Mind by Hans Christian Andersen which is the source of this retelling, but I think even if you’ve read it you can still enjoy this story. It’s well written with good plot and different from fairy tale that I used to read.
December 14, 2013
I was given an ecopy of this book as part of a blog book tour. See more at http://thebigbookreviewer.wordpress.com/
This book I think deserves a 5 stars because of the length you really get to see more of Heidi’s unique style of writing, again incorporating fairy tales into the story. And the fact that the character’s story follows what is happening through out the story being told to Mibi, though I know that’s intentional since it’s Kerrin’s who’s telling the story of her past.
Now, I have to admit, I’m a sucker for a cover, especially one with a pretty guy on the front, so before I’d read it I was thinking I’d like the book.
One thing I don’t understand is what the connection between the three pre-novellas are to the main story, since they don’t share any characters or the plot or place etc.
“Guts like jelly”, well I’ve never heard that before, quite an amusing comparison. But it all fits in with the ‘he’s a monster’ theme.
It’s quite a short story but it seemed to go on and on, I felt like I’d spent the whole day reading it. I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thing, but let’s call it good, it prolongs the story makes you feel as if you’re more part of it.
Now, I can’t really do a review without bringing up Anthony. The hot, sexy up and coming actor, who also happens to like Kerrin. She thinks this is a dream come true, but like they say if things seem to good to be true they usually aren’t. I think that goes without saying, especially when Anthony’s character develops more and more, and we see his true personality, I’m going to tell you now, it actually quite scared me. Is this dude a psycho? Yes, I think he is, I really do, or is he just angry with the world, or possessed by his own demons? Has he become the role of what he was supposed to be acting? When we pass the half way mark I didn’t really understand why Anthony started to do what he did, though that might be because of my very bad observation.
Overall, a very dramatic book with loads of different themes incorporated into a small amount of paper, I’d recommend, and if the film Demion Glass came out I’d probably recommend that too.
This book I think deserves a 5 stars because of the length you really get to see more of Heidi’s unique style of writing, again incorporating fairy tales into the story. And the fact that the character’s story follows what is happening through out the story being told to Mibi, though I know that’s intentional since it’s Kerrin’s who’s telling the story of her past.
Now, I have to admit, I’m a sucker for a cover, especially one with a pretty guy on the front, so before I’d read it I was thinking I’d like the book.
One thing I don’t understand is what the connection between the three pre-novellas are to the main story, since they don’t share any characters or the plot or place etc.
“Guts like jelly”, well I’ve never heard that before, quite an amusing comparison. But it all fits in with the ‘he’s a monster’ theme.
It’s quite a short story but it seemed to go on and on, I felt like I’d spent the whole day reading it. I’m not sure if that’s a good or bad thing, but let’s call it good, it prolongs the story makes you feel as if you’re more part of it.
Now, I can’t really do a review without bringing up Anthony. The hot, sexy up and coming actor, who also happens to like Kerrin. She thinks this is a dream come true, but like they say if things seem to good to be true they usually aren’t. I think that goes without saying, especially when Anthony’s character develops more and more, and we see his true personality, I’m going to tell you now, it actually quite scared me. Is this dude a psycho? Yes, I think he is, I really do, or is he just angry with the world, or possessed by his own demons? Has he become the role of what he was supposed to be acting? When we pass the half way mark I didn’t really understand why Anthony started to do what he did, though that might be because of my very bad observation.
Overall, a very dramatic book with loads of different themes incorporated into a small amount of paper, I’d recommend, and if the film Demion Glass came out I’d probably recommend that too.
December 21, 2013
Overall: Beautiful Beautiful was, well beautiful. It was a unique set-up with a mother telling her daughter a bedtime story that is a veiled story about how she met her husband paired with flashbacks that correspond with the story's progression, make sense? It was very unique and captivating. It was a very quick read, good for waiting in line or things like that. I read it in 2-3 hours max. The setting of Glitter City was majestic. the whole thing was very magical really felt like a modern fairy-tale, which I am loving right now. The story's progression was very smooth and easy to follow. The lessons about beauty apply both to children and to adults, which is the sign of a good bedtime story. I liked that Kerrin worked her way to the top regardless of both scandals, no spoilers here, and didn't let bad publicity stop her. My only issue is the length, I wanted more info, more after the ending, but I suppose that's why this is book #1. I'm definitely going to pick up #2. All in all, short and sweet. Perfect for relaxing for an hour or two.
Characters: Absolutely loved Kerrin and her determination. I loved Anthony and then I hated him, the writing was so captivating that I adopted the feelings Kerrin had towards Anthony as they changed. My feelings matched up perfectly, which almost never happens. I love love love Mark and his directness, especially at the end. Kerrins friends were perfect friends, loyal and understanding. I loved the description of Merni (I think that's how you spell it), always calling her a rectangle and such. That made me laugh.
Quotes: "'Not mean or bad, full of sorrow, I think'
'Sad kings aren't scary,' Mibi said.
'They are when they cry so many tears they drown the whole world'
(The blue part was my favorite)
Recommend?: Oh yes, 5/5 stars. Beautiful, captivating, quick. All the elements of a wonderful read!
Characters: Absolutely loved Kerrin and her determination. I loved Anthony and then I hated him, the writing was so captivating that I adopted the feelings Kerrin had towards Anthony as they changed. My feelings matched up perfectly, which almost never happens. I love love love Mark and his directness, especially at the end. Kerrins friends were perfect friends, loyal and understanding. I loved the description of Merni (I think that's how you spell it), always calling her a rectangle and such. That made me laugh.
Quotes: "'Not mean or bad, full of sorrow, I think'
'Sad kings aren't scary,' Mibi said.
'They are when they cry so many tears they drown the whole world'
(The blue part was my favorite)
Recommend?: Oh yes, 5/5 stars. Beautiful, captivating, quick. All the elements of a wonderful read!
November 21, 2013
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
My review will be short and sweet, just like this novella. I loved the opening scene where Mirabella plays with her father and mother. From the very beginning, we know that Kerrin ends up with an awesome guy named Mark, whose wonderful nature shines through in his interaction with his wife and daughter.
The story alternates between Kerrin telling her daughter the Beauty Beauty story, and following Kerrin through the actual events that inspired her fairy tale retelling. I thought the back and forth would be distracting but it wasn't. In some ways, it reminded me of The Princess Bride, but the scenes with Kerrin and Mirabella are sweet and much more frequent. Not only that, but it's hilarious to see Kerrin's fairy tale take on the events.
I just love modern fairy tale retellings, and this one didn't disappoint. Kerrin is such a sympathetic character, making it easy for the reader to jump on her side from the beginning. Ms. Garrett does a great job taking an important event from Kerrin's life and breathing life into it with just the right amount of backstory. The conversations between Mirabella and Kerrin were simply adorable; I loved them. I do wish Mark was featured just a little bit more in the novella. He's an interesting character in his own right.
Bottom line, if you're a fan of fairy tales, this is a must read. But beyond the fairy tale aspect, Beautiful Beautiful is an enjoyable story with just the right amount of intrigue and romance that will leave the reader feeling happy at the end.
My review will be short and sweet, just like this novella. I loved the opening scene where Mirabella plays with her father and mother. From the very beginning, we know that Kerrin ends up with an awesome guy named Mark, whose wonderful nature shines through in his interaction with his wife and daughter.
The story alternates between Kerrin telling her daughter the Beauty Beauty story, and following Kerrin through the actual events that inspired her fairy tale retelling. I thought the back and forth would be distracting but it wasn't. In some ways, it reminded me of The Princess Bride, but the scenes with Kerrin and Mirabella are sweet and much more frequent. Not only that, but it's hilarious to see Kerrin's fairy tale take on the events.
I just love modern fairy tale retellings, and this one didn't disappoint. Kerrin is such a sympathetic character, making it easy for the reader to jump on her side from the beginning. Ms. Garrett does a great job taking an important event from Kerrin's life and breathing life into it with just the right amount of backstory. The conversations between Mirabella and Kerrin were simply adorable; I loved them. I do wish Mark was featured just a little bit more in the novella. He's an interesting character in his own right.
Bottom line, if you're a fan of fairy tales, this is a must read. But beyond the fairy tale aspect, Beautiful Beautiful is an enjoyable story with just the right amount of intrigue and romance that will leave the reader feeling happy at the end.
October 7, 2013
I have read other books by Heidi and I love her stories. She is a fabulous writer with a wonderful imagination which allows her to create beautiful and exciting worlds for her characters to live in. I was entranced with her Queen of the Realm of Faerie series so was super excited to see that she was putting her spin on the fairy tales of old.
I love how, in Beautiful Beautiful, a fairy tale is woven into a story from the present so that the reader gets a sense of how the fairy tales relate to what is happening now. Kerrin tells her daughter bedtime stories which mirror her life stories as a way to teach her daughter life lessons.
Kerrin had discovered a creative way to pass meaningful lessons from her life to her daughter, and Mibi cherished the opportunity to reshape the tale, each time it was told by asking questions and interjecting her own opinions and commentary.
I love reading fairy tales and loved reading Heidi's version of this one. I look forward to reading the rest of this series. Here are some more quotes that I love.
"I'm going to be the only person on the planet who doesn't have any troubles!" Mibi announced.
"But if you ever do --"
"Mommy, I'll remember to look for something beautiful."
"No, it was the Wicked Witch if Iowa."
(Tee hee hee - growing up in Nebraska, this was extra funny to me.)
What good are magic shoes and a fairy godmother if they can't save you from a witch?
As long as you believe.
I look forward to reading more of Heidi's versions of the standard fairy tales!
I love how, in Beautiful Beautiful, a fairy tale is woven into a story from the present so that the reader gets a sense of how the fairy tales relate to what is happening now. Kerrin tells her daughter bedtime stories which mirror her life stories as a way to teach her daughter life lessons.
Kerrin had discovered a creative way to pass meaningful lessons from her life to her daughter, and Mibi cherished the opportunity to reshape the tale, each time it was told by asking questions and interjecting her own opinions and commentary.
I love reading fairy tales and loved reading Heidi's version of this one. I look forward to reading the rest of this series. Here are some more quotes that I love.
"I'm going to be the only person on the planet who doesn't have any troubles!" Mibi announced.
"But if you ever do --"
"Mommy, I'll remember to look for something beautiful."
"No, it was the Wicked Witch if Iowa."
(Tee hee hee - growing up in Nebraska, this was extra funny to me.)
What good are magic shoes and a fairy godmother if they can't save you from a witch?
As long as you believe.
I look forward to reading more of Heidi's versions of the standard fairy tales!
November 14, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it tells a nice tale and it short so you can read it quickly!
The story starts with a woman called Kerrin about to tell her daughter a bedtime story, the little girl asks for the 'Beautiful Beautiful' story and Kerrin resigns herself to telling it, it seems to be one of her favourites for teaching her daughter an important lessons, however one of the hardest as it shows her previous life. She has made up 'fairy tale' like stories to tell her daughter to teach her important lessons, however most of the tales told have root in Kerrin's life and how she is know.
The story is based on Kerrin, a young director who has just been nominated for director of the year in Glitter City (aka Hollywood), she's been working hard in the indie circuit and may now be getting her big break. However evil things are lurking around the corner and the story is made to tell the young girl not to judge a book by it's cover, regardless of what the cover is like.
It's very interesting and nice to see how Kerrin was able to translate her own experiences into a tale she could tell her daughter without her realising it was about her Mum. I enjoyed her character and although at times she could be frustrating, it was good that you cared enough about the character at that point to be frustrated! Definitely a nice light-hearted read for anyone that likes fairy-tale retellings!
The story starts with a woman called Kerrin about to tell her daughter a bedtime story, the little girl asks for the 'Beautiful Beautiful' story and Kerrin resigns herself to telling it, it seems to be one of her favourites for teaching her daughter an important lessons, however one of the hardest as it shows her previous life. She has made up 'fairy tale' like stories to tell her daughter to teach her important lessons, however most of the tales told have root in Kerrin's life and how she is know.
The story is based on Kerrin, a young director who has just been nominated for director of the year in Glitter City (aka Hollywood), she's been working hard in the indie circuit and may now be getting her big break. However evil things are lurking around the corner and the story is made to tell the young girl not to judge a book by it's cover, regardless of what the cover is like.
It's very interesting and nice to see how Kerrin was able to translate her own experiences into a tale she could tell her daughter without her realising it was about her Mum. I enjoyed her character and although at times she could be frustrating, it was good that you cared enough about the character at that point to be frustrated! Definitely a nice light-hearted read for anyone that likes fairy-tale retellings!
December 24, 2013
see this and more at Katie's Corer
I can’t say if I loved this book or not. I just liked it. I love new approaches to fairy tales and well, Heidi never disappoints at that. But… maybe I read too many adult books, maybe that was just me, but the book lacked its steam. I mean it lacked the description of love. The thing is I can’t agree with myself on one thing: did the book need more steam? When you read it, you have the feeling something is missing, but when you finish it, everything is in its place, nothing which should be added.
I liked how the author tells the story and a fairy tale at the same time. I liked Kerrin, but not when she id with Zorr. It was too fast and too hotheaded. From the beginning of the book we know that Kerrin is with the guy she loves, but we don’t see their love grow in the book. It’s like she saw him, 6 months after he’s asking to date her, they have children. Nothing special, and somehow that nothing special makes the book worth reading. Because everyone can see their “own” beauty, how they think the beauty should be seen and no one can tell us what it is. The author just gave us a hint, to seek it and seek it properly, because kind of every story has a happily ever after, you just need to find yours.
Happy Reading!!! And don’t forget to check short stories in this series by clicking HERE. Grab your copy now, to feel a little magic and don’t forget to leave comments!!! JJJ
I can’t say if I loved this book or not. I just liked it. I love new approaches to fairy tales and well, Heidi never disappoints at that. But… maybe I read too many adult books, maybe that was just me, but the book lacked its steam. I mean it lacked the description of love. The thing is I can’t agree with myself on one thing: did the book need more steam? When you read it, you have the feeling something is missing, but when you finish it, everything is in its place, nothing which should be added.
I liked how the author tells the story and a fairy tale at the same time. I liked Kerrin, but not when she id with Zorr. It was too fast and too hotheaded. From the beginning of the book we know that Kerrin is with the guy she loves, but we don’t see their love grow in the book. It’s like she saw him, 6 months after he’s asking to date her, they have children. Nothing special, and somehow that nothing special makes the book worth reading. Because everyone can see their “own” beauty, how they think the beauty should be seen and no one can tell us what it is. The author just gave us a hint, to seek it and seek it properly, because kind of every story has a happily ever after, you just need to find yours.
Happy Reading!!! And don’t forget to check short stories in this series by clicking HERE. Grab your copy now, to feel a little magic and don’t forget to leave comments!!! JJJ
February 4, 2016
The bones of this book are good, but it's so short that it really doesn't have time to delve in to the details. I think this author tried to tackle way too much in a novella and didn't really succeed.
Most of the story is about Kerrin, but interspersed frequently are flash forwards where Kerrin is telling her daughter the story of her life, but as a fairy tale. The concept is interesting at first, but it starts to become really jarring and I ended up skipping most of the Kerrin/daughter scenes because they kept pulling me out of the story.
Because this is so short, everything happens VERY quickly. Kerrin meets Anthony and, other than him being hot, there's no real reason why she's interested in him. They have a very short meeting where they don't exchange many words at all, and set up a date. He comes to her house and their entire relationship (which only lasts a matter of days) is him coming over, them having sex, and him leaving in the morning. I would really have liked this to be a full length novel where we get to know a lot more about Anthony before things turn dark with him. And perhaps have that part extended... instead it goes wrong and is 'resolved' in a matter of a few pages.
The 'romance' at the end is really an afterthought. We don't get to know any of these characters and I didn't feel emotionally invested in them either.
Not sure I'd recommend this one.
Most of the story is about Kerrin, but interspersed frequently are flash forwards where Kerrin is telling her daughter the story of her life, but as a fairy tale. The concept is interesting at first, but it starts to become really jarring and I ended up skipping most of the Kerrin/daughter scenes because they kept pulling me out of the story.
Because this is so short, everything happens VERY quickly. Kerrin meets Anthony and, other than him being hot, there's no real reason why she's interested in him. They have a very short meeting where they don't exchange many words at all, and set up a date. He comes to her house and their entire relationship (which only lasts a matter of days) is him coming over, them having sex, and him leaving in the morning. I would really have liked this to be a full length novel where we get to know a lot more about Anthony before things turn dark with him. And perhaps have that part extended... instead it goes wrong and is 'resolved' in a matter of a few pages.
The 'romance' at the end is really an afterthought. We don't get to know any of these characters and I didn't feel emotionally invested in them either.
Not sure I'd recommend this one.
September 2, 2014
This book was decidedly different from anything I had ever read. The story expertly shifts between the present day family scene where a fairy tale has been told and relates it to an actual story that occurred in the family life. I will be honest--I loved the family telling the fairy tales best of all. I was intrigued by the other story, but the family captured my attention. I was greatly intrigued by the way in which the author related an almost soap-opera like story to simple children's fairy tales.
For me, I sometimes found the story a little confusing and not as believable (I speak of the family story, not the fairy tale), and towards the end, it seemed to stop abruptly. Again, if the author were to take this story and elaborate just a bit more, I think I might move my rating up to a five. But the author certainly gets kudos for attempting and accomplishing such an unusual style of writing.
While there are no intimate scenes, there is some profanity. I am not marking the book down for that, but I always wish to warn potential readers in case this is a barrier to their reading the book. Honestly, I was not overly bothered since the profanity was only about moderate or less.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
For me, I sometimes found the story a little confusing and not as believable (I speak of the family story, not the fairy tale), and towards the end, it seemed to stop abruptly. Again, if the author were to take this story and elaborate just a bit more, I think I might move my rating up to a five. But the author certainly gets kudos for attempting and accomplishing such an unusual style of writing.
While there are no intimate scenes, there is some profanity. I am not marking the book down for that, but I always wish to warn potential readers in case this is a barrier to their reading the book. Honestly, I was not overly bothered since the profanity was only about moderate or less.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
December 19, 2013
A fine addition to the Once Upon A Time Today series, Beautiful Beautiful lives up to it’s name. It is a wonderful story and very much like a 21st century fairy-tale.
Every night Kerrin tells her daughter Mirabella a story. These are real life stories from Kerrin’s life, presented as a fairy tale. Mirabella’s favourite is “Beauty Beauty”; the story of how her mother met her father.
Kerrin is in the running for the award of the best director of the year. Winning this award means, she’ll have the money to finance her next project. It also means, she’ll be able to find the best guy to play the lead role.
It is at her movies set that she meets the up and coming actor, Anthony. He is hot, he is sexy and he is talented. There is an attraction between the two of them and their relationship develops gradually.
The real life story of Kerrin apart, there is also the fantastical element present in the book. The stories Kerrin tells her daughter are equal parts reality and fantasy. But I do wish there was a little more romance and steam.
Overall a good read and a fun one too. It was a really sweet story. 3.5/5 stars for Beautiful Beautiful.
Every night Kerrin tells her daughter Mirabella a story. These are real life stories from Kerrin’s life, presented as a fairy tale. Mirabella’s favourite is “Beauty Beauty”; the story of how her mother met her father.
Kerrin is in the running for the award of the best director of the year. Winning this award means, she’ll have the money to finance her next project. It also means, she’ll be able to find the best guy to play the lead role.
It is at her movies set that she meets the up and coming actor, Anthony. He is hot, he is sexy and he is talented. There is an attraction between the two of them and their relationship develops gradually.
The real life story of Kerrin apart, there is also the fantastical element present in the book. The stories Kerrin tells her daughter are equal parts reality and fantasy. But I do wish there was a little more romance and steam.
Overall a good read and a fun one too. It was a really sweet story. 3.5/5 stars for Beautiful Beautiful.
February 26, 2016
This was truly an interesting story to read.
With its roots stuck in the fairytales of the Grim brothers and told in both the memories of past events and the present of stories told between a mother and daughter, Beautiful, Beautiful easily captured my attention.
I've always loved fairytales, the hidden meanings and morals of the tales the spin. This story was no exception. The tale easily wrapped up ideals of outer and inner beauty, and the idea of seeing people for who or what they truly are.
Throughout the story, a mother tells her daughter a bedtime fairytale story, but in reality, the story she relays is only a memory of her own past events and troubles. In her constant need to lead her daughter down the right path so she doesn't make the same mistakes as her mother, she exploits the events of her past that led to her daughter even being born.
The tale was beautifully-wrapped in an easy-to-read-and-understand package, making it a fast and pleasant read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I hope you will as well.
With its roots stuck in the fairytales of the Grim brothers and told in both the memories of past events and the present of stories told between a mother and daughter, Beautiful, Beautiful easily captured my attention.
I've always loved fairytales, the hidden meanings and morals of the tales the spin. This story was no exception. The tale easily wrapped up ideals of outer and inner beauty, and the idea of seeing people for who or what they truly are.
Throughout the story, a mother tells her daughter a bedtime fairytale story, but in reality, the story she relays is only a memory of her own past events and troubles. In her constant need to lead her daughter down the right path so she doesn't make the same mistakes as her mother, she exploits the events of her past that led to her daughter even being born.
The tale was beautifully-wrapped in an easy-to-read-and-understand package, making it a fast and pleasant read. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and I hope you will as well.
December 10, 2013
3.5-Heidi Garrett's originality always amazes me. I would label this novella as a fable but it is really two stories in one. It is the fable and the explanation of said fable in one story. The book alternates between Kerrin telling her daughter a bedtime fairytale and the real life story on which the story is based.It is quite cleverly done. Life lessons are also interspersed within the bedtime story for the daughter.I enjoyed the originality of the concept ;however, because of the style, I found it difficult to become emotionally enmeshed in either story. Bottom line, I enjoyed the story, I applaud the ingeniousness but I didn't "live" the story.
I find these star ratings difficult - I find myself at times rating the writing style, at other times rating the storyline and still at other times rating my feelings about the book and finally ,times when I blend all three reactions into one rating .I think that I require a line of stars to correspond with each concept.Never was good with one word (star) answers- even true and false.
I find these star ratings difficult - I find myself at times rating the writing style, at other times rating the storyline and still at other times rating my feelings about the book and finally ,times when I blend all three reactions into one rating .I think that I require a line of stars to correspond with each concept.Never was good with one word (star) answers- even true and false.
May 1, 2014
In 'Beautiful, Beautiful', Heidi Garrett has written a great novella that can be read in one sitting (try curling up in bed with your Kindle and settling in for an absorbing few hours). The story is contemporary, with plenty of action around a number of themes: being single, romance and sex (some illicit) and its consequences, career progression in the film industry, with a touch of psychological thriller thrown in too! There's definitely not a dull page in it.
The interesting construction is where the story (retrospective) follows the life over a couple of years of Kerrin, an Indie film director, but the narrative is interspersed with scenes of a now older Kerrin telling a fairytale story to her daughter at bedtimes. This story is metaphorical, (relating to how Kerrin met her husband), but it also teaches her daughter how to distinguish between right and wrong.
Look forward to reading more from this very creative author. (Jones)
The interesting construction is where the story (retrospective) follows the life over a couple of years of Kerrin, an Indie film director, but the narrative is interspersed with scenes of a now older Kerrin telling a fairytale story to her daughter at bedtimes. This story is metaphorical, (relating to how Kerrin met her husband), but it also teaches her daughter how to distinguish between right and wrong.
Look forward to reading more from this very creative author. (Jones)
August 19, 2014
**I received this book in exchange of an honest review.**
I absolutely loved this novella! It was sweet with a huge plot twisted piled on top of another. Absolutely insane. I love the story of Kerrin and how she fell in love. She would tell her daughter the story of her love life in fairy tale like state. It was completely romantic. Kerrin's daughter Mirabella was too adorable in how she interacted with the story her mother was telling her. Just the interaction in general between Kerrin and Mirabella is the epitome of mother and daughter relationship.
I thought Anthony Zorr was such a hunk. He seemed genuinely attracted to Kerrin, but when the truth came out about his past things just started to spiral downwards. Marni seemed strange and the truth of her just made the creepiness double over.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this story and the symbolism behind it! Great job on this one Heidi!
I absolutely loved this novella! It was sweet with a huge plot twisted piled on top of another. Absolutely insane. I love the story of Kerrin and how she fell in love. She would tell her daughter the story of her love life in fairy tale like state. It was completely romantic. Kerrin's daughter Mirabella was too adorable in how she interacted with the story her mother was telling her. Just the interaction in general between Kerrin and Mirabella is the epitome of mother and daughter relationship.
I thought Anthony Zorr was such a hunk. He seemed genuinely attracted to Kerrin, but when the truth came out about his past things just started to spiral downwards. Marni seemed strange and the truth of her just made the creepiness double over.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this story and the symbolism behind it! Great job on this one Heidi!
November 19, 2013
Beautiful *Beautiful {Once Upon a Time} Heidi Garrett
This is the stuff that fairy tales and dreams are made of, after reading this book I closed my eyes, and I could still see the brilliant job that Heidi Garrett did with this story.
The characters was so define that you could put yourself into their shoes and feel all the suspense and the emotions play out as it happen. I am a lover of all books, but this one was special. The story starts off with Kerrin telling her daughter a bed time, but the child doesn't know that it is her mother's true life story. Kerrin tries to teach her daughter to learn from her mistakes, and to choose the right path.
I loved it, it was a fun read and I would recommend it to everyone that want to believe in something ***
September 1, 2014
I got a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
The morals of this story would be 'Don't judge a book by the cover' or 'It's not gold all that shines'. In this retelling of the fairy tale "Beautiful", by Hans Christian Andersen, we see how Kerrin Mayham tries to teach her daughter life lessons about beauty and people character. The story was beautifully crafted, with flashbacks to an earlier time in Kerrin's life, when she was a successful film director, but not too clever in love matters. Beauty can blind our senses, and we must beware of that. I loved reading this story, but the ending was a bit predictable for me.
Interesting retelling of a very well-known fairy tale that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.
The morals of this story would be 'Don't judge a book by the cover' or 'It's not gold all that shines'. In this retelling of the fairy tale "Beautiful", by Hans Christian Andersen, we see how Kerrin Mayham tries to teach her daughter life lessons about beauty and people character. The story was beautifully crafted, with flashbacks to an earlier time in Kerrin's life, when she was a successful film director, but not too clever in love matters. Beauty can blind our senses, and we must beware of that. I loved reading this story, but the ending was a bit predictable for me.
Interesting retelling of a very well-known fairy tale that will keep you turning the pages until the very end.
September 3, 2014
It took me a bit of time to get into this story, and to see where it was headed. I enjoyed getting to see Kerrin with Mirabella, but also getting to see a younger Kerrin and all the life changes and decisions that brought her to where she was.
This book was a little dark and even the story Kerrin told Mirabella was quite disturbing. I loved the fairytale elements that blended so well with Kerrin's real life, and how she was able to turn them into a lesson her daughter could learn from.
Another great fairytale retelling that will grab your attention and hold you captive.
This book was a little dark and even the story Kerrin told Mirabella was quite disturbing. I loved the fairytale elements that blended so well with Kerrin's real life, and how she was able to turn them into a lesson her daughter could learn from.
Another great fairytale retelling that will grab your attention and hold you captive.
May 20, 2017
I enjoyed the opening scene of family life. I LOVED the idea of bed time stories being told from one's own experiences and making them into a fairytale. The protagonist's daughter's name matched her desire for beauty and the nickname was cute. I liked the reminder that sometimes we blind ourselves by being overly preoccupied by a single factor. I would have preferred omitting the amourous scenes, although these were mild.
December 19, 2013
Truth? I thought this would be a bit of fluff to pad around my other reading, but it surprised me by having a lot of depth to it. I really liked the story length for a modern day fairytale and thought Kerrin's dilemma was relayed in good punchy narration. What didn't quite work for me was the scenes where she told her daughter the story as a fairytale. There was a loss of connection from the rest of the story which I can't really explain. Good story though.
July 19, 2016
What a great way to tell a story. I loved the message this story was telling and how Heidi chose to tell it using the fairytale. The book was short but I didn't feel like it left anything out. I was a bit confused about how the fairytale related to Kerrin's story at first but it was all tied up in the end.
September 12, 2016
Beautiful Beautiful - review to come.
December 19, 2014
I really liked this story and found that I was following the bedtime story for Mibi as much as the main one ..
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