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Girl Among Wolves #1
Enchant
Up until now, my life was I lived with my dad, went to school, and sometimes dealt with my unexplained headaches.
But in an instant, everything changes.
My father dies, and I’m left orphaned and alone.
That is, until I’m told that my estranged mother will take me in. When I arrive, I learn I have two sisters, but any dreams of belonging are destroyed when my new family treats me like a servant.
In fact, the entire community shuns me. I’m convinced they’re a cult, and I’m desperate to escape.
And then I meet the one boy who’s brave enough to flirt with me, despite my status. He’s gorgeous, intriguing… And completely rude half the time.
The harder I try to fight my attraction to the jerk, the more I want to know about him. But solving the mystery surrounding him may put the whole community in danger. I’m an outsider, after all.
Then I finally find out the my entire family is made up of werewolves. So is the community. Worst of all, the boy I love is one of the monsters.
And they won’t just cast me out if I reveal their deadly secret.
They’ll kill me.
**This book was previously published under the title Unlikely Magic.
But in an instant, everything changes.
My father dies, and I’m left orphaned and alone.
That is, until I’m told that my estranged mother will take me in. When I arrive, I learn I have two sisters, but any dreams of belonging are destroyed when my new family treats me like a servant.
In fact, the entire community shuns me. I’m convinced they’re a cult, and I’m desperate to escape.
And then I meet the one boy who’s brave enough to flirt with me, despite my status. He’s gorgeous, intriguing… And completely rude half the time.
The harder I try to fight my attraction to the jerk, the more I want to know about him. But solving the mystery surrounding him may put the whole community in danger. I’m an outsider, after all.
Then I finally find out the my entire family is made up of werewolves. So is the community. Worst of all, the boy I love is one of the monsters.
And they won’t just cast me out if I reveal their deadly secret.
They’ll kill me.
**This book was previously published under the title Unlikely Magic.
250 pages, Paperback
Published October 13, 2023
476 people are currently reading
1119 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
January 9, 2019
Seriously?!?!
The idea of this book is five stars... the reality a 1.5 because a 2 might be too generous. This book dragged on forever, by the grace of god I held on- - - only to be deeply disappointed. The female main character is such a freaking victim and the fact that the author basically turned her into a prisoner/slave got old real fast. This is Cinderella but darker. I am so disappointed I wasted time reading this book. The monotony. I wanted so badly to like the male character but he’s cocky and really not a savior. What a waste of my time. This author needs to figure her shit out.
The idea of this book is five stars... the reality a 1.5 because a 2 might be too generous. This book dragged on forever, by the grace of god I held on- - - only to be deeply disappointed. The female main character is such a freaking victim and the fact that the author basically turned her into a prisoner/slave got old real fast. This is Cinderella but darker. I am so disappointed I wasted time reading this book. The monotony. I wanted so badly to like the male character but he’s cocky and really not a savior. What a waste of my time. This author needs to figure her shit out.
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September 13, 2018💝FREE on Amazon today (9/13/18)!💝
May 21, 2020
Literally nothing happened until 80% into the story. The main character - Stella is trapped in her room the entire book. She stays there for 3 years! She's not allowed to talk to anybody or go outside, her sisters are lame, her mom is abusive (but supposedly in an I'm-treating-you-like-this-for-your-own-good sort of way), and the only guy she is attracted to is an arrogant chauvinist who becomes their Alpha pack leader. Stella soon succumbs to her much-hated "new" life in the forest after only a few lousy attempts of escape. Her character is meek and pathetic and we don't even get to know any of the other characters outside of her family and her man crush...who ends up hating her in the end. Not to mention, the mouse who stayed with her for the entire 3 years ends up being her babysitter neighbor - Mrs. Nguyen - from when she had her old life...who happens to be a witch with powers but never so much as speaks to Stella or encourages her or anything! I mean, she coulda been like "hey, your dad is still alive. Theirs hope, don't give up". Or she could of shown up sooner to rescue her instead of waiting for the most important event of the year (where lots of things can go wrong, and did go wrong) to take place. Stellla's family and the whole village went deep into the woods every month for their ritual...there was plenty of time for Mrs. Nguyen to come and save her. Overall, the book was slow moving and monotonous and confusing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2019
Language: PG13 (14 swears, 0 "f"); Mature Content: PG13 (nudity, mentions of sex); Violence: PG13
This story was very odd. I'm still not really sure how I feel about it. Time was frustratingly ambiguous throughout the entire book and the characters, I felt, acted inconsistently enough that I questioned whether I even knew the characters. Because of how confused I am, I'm torn about reading the sequel -- on the one hand, I don't want to deal with another book written this way, but, on the other hand, the sequel might help everything make more sense.
This story was very odd. I'm still not really sure how I feel about it. Time was frustratingly ambiguous throughout the entire book and the characters, I felt, acted inconsistently enough that I questioned whether I even knew the characters. Because of how confused I am, I'm torn about reading the sequel -- on the one hand, I don't want to deal with another book written this way, but, on the other hand, the sequel might help everything make more sense.
June 23, 2025
Okay so I went in expecting it to be a terrible book..and it was. Lol
It wasn’t the worst thing I had ever read although a few things made me sit and think about what the hell I was reading. First of all this girl was straight up edging us, like she tried to escape no joke like five times..and every time she got caught and then chained up or something freaky like that.
Mind you this girl is 14 at the start of the book…yeah. So the main girl Stella goes to live with her mother after her father died, but her mom is like abusive and locks her in the attic. Spoiler alert they are all wolves, like the whole community and she finds out and gets locked up again.
So one day she’s like chopping wood or wtv and a grown ass man walks up to her, and you might be thinking oh she is gonna be scared and weary of a grown man who keeps making inappropriate comments about like fucking her right? No. She is like yes man who obviously wants to rape me please take me away from here. Don’t even get me started on how she killed the “love interests” dad and he was still all up in her in the lunar day.
Honestly this whole book I just felt bad for this stupid girl. It doesn’t ever get better so don’t hope she like gets revenge or anything, literally the whole book she just gets abused. Maybe it gets cool in the later books like she gets new powers or smth but I ain’t paying 5 dollars to find out 😔
It wasn’t the worst thing I had ever read although a few things made me sit and think about what the hell I was reading. First of all this girl was straight up edging us, like she tried to escape no joke like five times..and every time she got caught and then chained up or something freaky like that.
Mind you this girl is 14 at the start of the book…yeah. So the main girl Stella goes to live with her mother after her father died, but her mom is like abusive and locks her in the attic. Spoiler alert they are all wolves, like the whole community and she finds out and gets locked up again.
So one day she’s like chopping wood or wtv and a grown ass man walks up to her, and you might be thinking oh she is gonna be scared and weary of a grown man who keeps making inappropriate comments about like fucking her right? No. She is like yes man who obviously wants to rape me please take me away from here. Don’t even get me started on how she killed the “love interests” dad and he was still all up in her in the lunar day.
Honestly this whole book I just felt bad for this stupid girl. It doesn’t ever get better so don’t hope she like gets revenge or anything, literally the whole book she just gets abused. Maybe it gets cool in the later books like she gets new powers or smth but I ain’t paying 5 dollars to find out 😔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2017
I am a fan of fairy tale retells which is what I thought I was getting with Unlikely Magic. There were some similarities to Cinderella but it wasn’t exactly a retell. There were a mother who wasn’t always nice, sisters who were different, the death of a father, and chores other than that there wasn’t much Cinderella like about the story.
Yet, I could not put the book down. I was pulled into the story, interested in the characters, and anxious for Stella to be okay. The shape shifter part was wonderful. I love a good shape shifter story and Unlikely Magic is just that. It was also nice that there were numerous twists and turns within the story. As I started to get a feel of where the story was heading Lena Mae Hill would throw something unexpected into the story I was would feel the need to read even more.
If you are a fan of the paranormal I would recommend picking up your own copy.
Thank you Heather Hildenbrand for the recommendation and Lena Mae Hill for a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
Yet, I could not put the book down. I was pulled into the story, interested in the characters, and anxious for Stella to be okay. The shape shifter part was wonderful. I love a good shape shifter story and Unlikely Magic is just that. It was also nice that there were numerous twists and turns within the story. As I started to get a feel of where the story was heading Lena Mae Hill would throw something unexpected into the story I was would feel the need to read even more.
If you are a fan of the paranormal I would recommend picking up your own copy.
Thank you Heather Hildenbrand for the recommendation and Lena Mae Hill for a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2017
I love fairytale retellings and while this had elements of Cinderella, attics and mice, a sort of fairy godmother and kind of a prince, I wouldn't call this a retelling. This was an interesting book. Definitely different and original. I've been having a hard time liking MC's lately and this was no different. I just didn't understand Stella. Her thought process and how she went about doing things was reckless? Not very well thought out? I don't know but connecting with her didn't happen. I really liked the other characters. They all were very flushed out and the one good thing about Stella is her perception of the people changed over time and with that change new traits of the characters emerged. The world building was really well done. I could "see" everything. I don't do spoilers but if you're looking for something different and most of the time unpredictable this is definitely a book you should check out. I will read the next book because I'm really curious as to what happens next.
June 27, 2017
Great Story!
Wow! I ended up staying awake all night, glued to this story. That's how much I enjoyed it! Now, I have to go without. :( I have a confession. I almost didn't get the book. My thoughts were me being burned out on shifter books. They all pretty much read the same o same o. But! Unlikely Magic: A Cinderella Retelling is not your usual shifter story. And, in my opinion, it's not a retelling of Cinderella, although I can see why it's titled that. Sorry, that's as far as I go. I do not do spoilers. This story is a real "grab you by the seat of your pants" from page one and doesn't. let you go. And I guess I'd have to say the ending is not a cliff hanger, but it definitely leaves a it wide open for the next installment. And I cannot wait for the next one! I can't recommend this book enough...get this book. It's great!
Wow! I ended up staying awake all night, glued to this story. That's how much I enjoyed it! Now, I have to go without. :( I have a confession. I almost didn't get the book. My thoughts were me being burned out on shifter books. They all pretty much read the same o same o. But! Unlikely Magic: A Cinderella Retelling is not your usual shifter story. And, in my opinion, it's not a retelling of Cinderella, although I can see why it's titled that. Sorry, that's as far as I go. I do not do spoilers. This story is a real "grab you by the seat of your pants" from page one and doesn't. let you go. And I guess I'd have to say the ending is not a cliff hanger, but it definitely leaves a it wide open for the next installment. And I cannot wait for the next one! I can't recommend this book enough...get this book. It's great!
June 23, 2017
This is not a retelling of Cinderella. No wicked stepmother no stepsisters. There is a ball, even a prince of sorts, and Stella does lose her slippers, but this is not a fairy tale even if there are witches and weres.
What happens to a beloved child who without warning is set apart, forced to live in isolation, sharing no meals, hearing no kind words yet she is among her own family. Is all that just to keep a secret?
This is a beautifully crafted story of being perceived as different with the varied reactions to it and the dangers of secrets and lies within a family. I enjoy the way each character is fleshed out as Stella's perception of them changes as she knows them better. The scenes are vividly portrayed, from the dripping rain to the bedlam of battle, even creeping through the ominous forest. There are delightful twists and unexpected turns to draw you in deeper. No, not a retelling. Something far more than that.
What happens to a beloved child who without warning is set apart, forced to live in isolation, sharing no meals, hearing no kind words yet she is among her own family. Is all that just to keep a secret?
This is a beautifully crafted story of being perceived as different with the varied reactions to it and the dangers of secrets and lies within a family. I enjoy the way each character is fleshed out as Stella's perception of them changes as she knows them better. The scenes are vividly portrayed, from the dripping rain to the bedlam of battle, even creeping through the ominous forest. There are delightful twists and unexpected turns to draw you in deeper. No, not a retelling. Something far more than that.
July 13, 2024
okay this was so good for a free kindle book! it’s giving cinderella meets paranormal world!! the world building is super easy to understand & there are just enough questions to keep you intrigued! the ending was a definite page turner, the perfect cliff hanger making you want more! there is a slight romance but it doesn’t overshadow the story as a whole!! def will be finishing this series!
December 23, 2017
I definitely enjoyed reading this book. It's basically a Cinderella style tale, with quite a few twists & turns, and definitely told from an unexpected frame of reference. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys fairytale retellings, werewolves and shifters in general.
November 10, 2023
Werewolves and a retelling of Cinderella, sounds like my kind of book... except it fell flat.
The world building is confusing and strange to me. It was hard to follow exactly how all of these supernatural beings fit in to the natural world. We're supposed to believe these packs live out in the woods and no one knows they're there, except somehow a social worker found Stella's mother anyway? And not only is there one wolf pack, but also a 'shifter' pack (because the wolves are different somehow) and a witches coven or something, all in the forest of arkansas and no human knows about them. It just... doesn't make sense.
Then theres the fact that after Stella finds out what they are shes not allowed to leave for fear of humans finding out the truth even though her father was allowed to leave years before when he knew?
I think besides those two things, the biggest drawback was keeping track of time in this book. Stella starts out as a 14 year old (kind of hard to believe and she definitely doesnt act like a 14 year old, she talks about boys and feeling hot under the gaze of the alphas son (who is 18 by the way!!!) 14 is still like a literal child. She should not be thinking those things or feeling that way. Especially about an 18 year old. He's an adult. She's a child. Its weird and its gross) Anyway, somehow by the end of the book 2 years have passed, and most of the book was just her spent locked in an attack.
!Spoilers beyond!
So we're supposed to believe that not only did her BFF just go on without her and just not care that she never contacted her or anything. Then it turns out one of the mice Stella had been talking to for TWO YEARS was actually her old neighbor who can like, project into other bodies or something? That was super confusing and convenient but also kind of weird that she waited two whole years to rescue poor stella even after she knew what was happening to her.
Anyway, 2 stars because I breezed through this book (i have a soft spot for bad books) but the world building sucked and the end made no sense.
The world building is confusing and strange to me. It was hard to follow exactly how all of these supernatural beings fit in to the natural world. We're supposed to believe these packs live out in the woods and no one knows they're there, except somehow a social worker found Stella's mother anyway? And not only is there one wolf pack, but also a 'shifter' pack (because the wolves are different somehow) and a witches coven or something, all in the forest of arkansas and no human knows about them. It just... doesn't make sense.
Then theres the fact that after Stella finds out what they are shes not allowed to leave for fear of humans finding out the truth even though her father was allowed to leave years before when he knew?
I think besides those two things, the biggest drawback was keeping track of time in this book. Stella starts out as a 14 year old (kind of hard to believe and she definitely doesnt act like a 14 year old, she talks about boys and feeling hot under the gaze of the alphas son (who is 18 by the way!!!) 14 is still like a literal child. She should not be thinking those things or feeling that way. Especially about an 18 year old. He's an adult. She's a child. Its weird and its gross) Anyway, somehow by the end of the book 2 years have passed, and most of the book was just her spent locked in an attack.
!Spoilers beyond!
So we're supposed to believe that not only did her BFF just go on without her and just not care that she never contacted her or anything. Then it turns out one of the mice Stella had been talking to for TWO YEARS was actually her old neighbor who can like, project into other bodies or something? That was super confusing and convenient but also kind of weird that she waited two whole years to rescue poor stella even after she knew what was happening to her.
Anyway, 2 stars because I breezed through this book (i have a soft spot for bad books) but the world building sucked and the end made no sense.
October 28, 2023
i can't really decide if it's a 2 or 3 star rating... i think 2 is probably more accurate.
this book was so slow and not much happened until near the end. most of the book is just her being stuck in the house watching her family leave and live their lives. she's barely allowed to go outside, unless it's for chores, and she can't talk to anyone. her mother is abusive (but has good intentions supposedly) and her sisters are so bland. one hates her from the onset and the other doesn't know how to feel, especially since she's meant to be her twin. their mother encourages them to stay away from her and they do, mostly.
she moves in with her family after her father dies - she didn't realise they existed - and this story takes place over a few years. it's not really made clear when we're skipping ahead in time; there are just references to past events that happened months/years ago. it's a bit disorientating. over the years, she has completely changed her personality and becomes a lot more meek, just accepting that she's never going to leave this place. she makes a few escape attempts but eventually stops trying.
her crush/love interest (maybe?) is also bland - he's one of the few people she speaks to (secretly) outside of her family and he's not very interesting. he switches between being nice and mean to her but ultimately, this book ends with him hating her.
i won't be continuing with this series - it's not for me.
this book was so slow and not much happened until near the end. most of the book is just her being stuck in the house watching her family leave and live their lives. she's barely allowed to go outside, unless it's for chores, and she can't talk to anyone. her mother is abusive (but has good intentions supposedly) and her sisters are so bland. one hates her from the onset and the other doesn't know how to feel, especially since she's meant to be her twin. their mother encourages them to stay away from her and they do, mostly.
she moves in with her family after her father dies - she didn't realise they existed - and this story takes place over a few years. it's not really made clear when we're skipping ahead in time; there are just references to past events that happened months/years ago. it's a bit disorientating. over the years, she has completely changed her personality and becomes a lot more meek, just accepting that she's never going to leave this place. she makes a few escape attempts but eventually stops trying.
her crush/love interest (maybe?) is also bland - he's one of the few people she speaks to (secretly) outside of her family and he's not very interesting. he switches between being nice and mean to her but ultimately, this book ends with him hating her.
i won't be continuing with this series - it's not for me.
July 6, 2017
***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review***
OMG...OMG...OMG! I believe I just found my new favorite series! I love finding new authors that I love. So much to the point that I could not put Lena Mae Hill's book down! The more I read and review books, I am having a hard time finding books that I am excited to read. Don't worry they are still there which is why I tend to review for the same Authors over and over, but that is because I love their writing. Writers like Lena Mae Hill remind me why I started my blog and strive me to continue doing what I enjoy. After working in a Health Insurance Office all day, going home to read is nice and relaxing!
Anyways onto the book... I was somewhat weary about reading this book as I was worried it was going to be another dud. Much to my dismay, the book was anything except for a dud. The book was great! I was kept guessing from the start to end of this book. Even though I guessed somethings correctly, Lena Mae kept me second guessing.
Stella... This poor teenager was ripped from her old life and brought to this place that seems like it is a cult. She has a mother and two sisters she never knew she had. What a whirlwind for a girl who just lost her father... or did she? She has absolutely no clue about what is really going outside while she is locked in the house and her family goes out. Honestly this book was great start to finish. The ending does leave you with a cliff hanger and so many unanswered questions.
I want to know more about Harmon. I have so many questions but don't want to give away any details. If you have not read this book yet, I recommend you go out and do it now! I cannot wait for the next book in the Girl Among Wolves Series!
OMG...OMG...OMG! I believe I just found my new favorite series! I love finding new authors that I love. So much to the point that I could not put Lena Mae Hill's book down! The more I read and review books, I am having a hard time finding books that I am excited to read. Don't worry they are still there which is why I tend to review for the same Authors over and over, but that is because I love their writing. Writers like Lena Mae Hill remind me why I started my blog and strive me to continue doing what I enjoy. After working in a Health Insurance Office all day, going home to read is nice and relaxing!
Anyways onto the book... I was somewhat weary about reading this book as I was worried it was going to be another dud. Much to my dismay, the book was anything except for a dud. The book was great! I was kept guessing from the start to end of this book. Even though I guessed somethings correctly, Lena Mae kept me second guessing.
Stella... This poor teenager was ripped from her old life and brought to this place that seems like it is a cult. She has a mother and two sisters she never knew she had. What a whirlwind for a girl who just lost her father... or did she? She has absolutely no clue about what is really going outside while she is locked in the house and her family goes out. Honestly this book was great start to finish. The ending does leave you with a cliff hanger and so many unanswered questions.
I want to know more about Harmon. I have so many questions but don't want to give away any details. If you have not read this book yet, I recommend you go out and do it now! I cannot wait for the next book in the Girl Among Wolves Series!
February 7, 2019
ONE INTENSE EXPERIENCE!!!
Wow! Talk about things that go bump in the night. This is one action packed, hard hitting, steady paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, nailbiting, page turning bombshell that captivates from the start. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, ins and outs, along with a few bumps and bruises make for one thrilling experience. With all the drama, intrigue, mystery, danger and suspense this bad boy keeps you on a razors edge, holding your breath. A rollercoaster ride with a plethora of emotions to sort through as the tension spirals and imaginations run rampant. The characters and their personalities are unique with qualities and traits that balance out perfectly. The scenes are vividly detailed it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. With such graphic descriptions you can picture each scenario as it flows smoothly. Remarkable job Lena, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Wow! Talk about things that go bump in the night. This is one action packed, hard hitting, steady paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, nailbiting, page turning bombshell that captivates from the start. All the twists and turns, ups and downs, ins and outs, along with a few bumps and bruises make for one thrilling experience. With all the drama, intrigue, mystery, danger and suspense this bad boy keeps you on a razors edge, holding your breath. A rollercoaster ride with a plethora of emotions to sort through as the tension spirals and imaginations run rampant. The characters and their personalities are unique with qualities and traits that balance out perfectly. The scenes are vividly detailed it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. With such graphic descriptions you can picture each scenario as it flows smoothly. Remarkable job Lena, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
November 26, 2025
What a ride - a dark YA mashup of Cinderella & Red & Rapunzel - with shifters
Loved this one, though it’s pretty dark, let me tell you. Stella’d dad dies and she’s sent to live with her estranged mother who she didn’t realize was alive! Nobody explains anything to a grieving girl for months and years and she’s kept in an attic and made to clean. Honestly, I thought she’d break, cute boy or no. But no. Made to be her sisters’ fairy godmother too. Ghastly. Mumsy was worse than any wicked witch. This tale was plenty twisted and the secrets keep peeling away like onions. Can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Trigger warnings: though YA, this might be difficult to read for survivors of mental abuse - on account of incarceration and chronic invalidation.
Recommended for lovers of dark mashup fairytales, especially shifter Red Riding Hood and Cinderella with elements of Rapunzel.
Loved this one, though it’s pretty dark, let me tell you. Stella’d dad dies and she’s sent to live with her estranged mother who she didn’t realize was alive! Nobody explains anything to a grieving girl for months and years and she’s kept in an attic and made to clean. Honestly, I thought she’d break, cute boy or no. But no. Made to be her sisters’ fairy godmother too. Ghastly. Mumsy was worse than any wicked witch. This tale was plenty twisted and the secrets keep peeling away like onions. Can’t wait to read the next instalment.
Trigger warnings: though YA, this might be difficult to read for survivors of mental abuse - on account of incarceration and chronic invalidation.
Recommended for lovers of dark mashup fairytales, especially shifter Red Riding Hood and Cinderella with elements of Rapunzel.
July 23, 2017
Description: Unlikely Magic: A Cinderella Retelling
Paranormal Romance Fairytale
A magical & well crafted distinctive retelling of Cinderella. The variations are creative & well interwoven into the storyline. One of the best Fairytale Retellings I have ever read. A writing style that is peerless & accentuates the storyline. The antecedent intrigued me & right from page one I was hooked & at the edge of my seat till the end. A creative & well interwoven plot with astonishing twists. Characters are compelling & well seasoned with a fabulous blend of supporting characters that add to the story. I highly recommend reading this novel as it is spellbinding. If you love fairytales with jaw-dropping twists this is for you. I so need book two right now. I wish I could rate this book higher as five stars does not do it justice.
Paranormal Romance Fairytale
A magical & well crafted distinctive retelling of Cinderella. The variations are creative & well interwoven into the storyline. One of the best Fairytale Retellings I have ever read. A writing style that is peerless & accentuates the storyline. The antecedent intrigued me & right from page one I was hooked & at the edge of my seat till the end. A creative & well interwoven plot with astonishing twists. Characters are compelling & well seasoned with a fabulous blend of supporting characters that add to the story. I highly recommend reading this novel as it is spellbinding. If you love fairytales with jaw-dropping twists this is for you. I so need book two right now. I wish I could rate this book higher as five stars does not do it justice.
February 10, 2019
I read this without any idea of what it would be about, beyond what is obvious from the cover art. I found it while scrolling through my kindle library, and on a whim chose to read it without checking out the summary. I thought it would be a typical wolf shifter romance. I did not expect a Cinderella retelling with werewolves.
This is what Cinderella would read like if Disney had left out all the happy singing and showed more of the stepmother's cruelty. The characters here were very well done. Each one's betrayal hurt. I was never sure where the book would go, and it ended up being compellingly darker than I'd expected. Lots of plot twists too.
I want to read the next book, but I'm trying to decide if I want it enough to pay for it. It was definitely a different type of book. Dark, but hard to put down. I read it all in one night.
This is what Cinderella would read like if Disney had left out all the happy singing and showed more of the stepmother's cruelty. The characters here were very well done. Each one's betrayal hurt. I was never sure where the book would go, and it ended up being compellingly darker than I'd expected. Lots of plot twists too.
I want to read the next book, but I'm trying to decide if I want it enough to pay for it. It was definitely a different type of book. Dark, but hard to put down. I read it all in one night.
July 1, 2017
A Cinderella style story
The plot to this story was very interesting and i enjoyed the Cinderella-like twist in it. I did find it a little hard to connect with some of the other characters and felt like the story didnt flow all that smoothly in the beginning. However, once i was past the first few chapters and understood the plot, it started really getting my attention and hooked me. I would have liked to have had alternating points of view with Harmon's POV since its really hard to discern whether he likes her on not. She made the ending great for that cliff hanger and im excited to get the chance to read the next in series as well. I would definitely recommend this book if you like dystopian fairytales.
The plot to this story was very interesting and i enjoyed the Cinderella-like twist in it. I did find it a little hard to connect with some of the other characters and felt like the story didnt flow all that smoothly in the beginning. However, once i was past the first few chapters and understood the plot, it started really getting my attention and hooked me. I would have liked to have had alternating points of view with Harmon's POV since its really hard to discern whether he likes her on not. She made the ending great for that cliff hanger and im excited to get the chance to read the next in series as well. I would definitely recommend this book if you like dystopian fairytales.
November 30, 2017
Not my favorite. 2.5 Stars. It may be someone else’s cup of tea, though.
Let me start by saying I do not like ambiguity. I like knowing that I’m rooting for the good guy. And here, I couldn’t really tell what I was supposed to be feeling. Was she being held hostage and should have continually tried to escape no matter the cost? Was she supposed to understand that while her family was a bit unconventional that they loved her the best they could? How about going away with a strange, scary man. I know! Let’s pin all the problems on the leader and try to kill him. I mean, his son is the guy I like, but hey, what harm could that do!?
The abrupt ending does make me wonder what happens next, but there are so many things going on right at the end, I don’t even know what to expect.
Let me start by saying I do not like ambiguity. I like knowing that I’m rooting for the good guy. And here, I couldn’t really tell what I was supposed to be feeling. Was she being held hostage and should have continually tried to escape no matter the cost? Was she supposed to understand that while her family was a bit unconventional that they loved her the best they could? How about going away with a strange, scary man. I know! Let’s pin all the problems on the leader and try to kill him. I mean, his son is the guy I like, but hey, what harm could that do!?
The abrupt ending does make me wonder what happens next, but there are so many things going on right at the end, I don’t even know what to expect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
skipped-it
September 27, 2024Content Rating: ❌
Disqualified for sex, nudity, and language.
I haven't read it, but from what I can tell, it probably isn't clean. Thanks to Carolina Colleene for providing the only content review for this book I could find.
Find clean reads here: Homerun Reads (Notion)
Follow me to easily see my content reviews (if available) when you look up books here on Goodreads.
Disqualified for sex, nudity, and language.
I haven't read it, but from what I can tell, it probably isn't clean. Thanks to Carolina Colleene for providing the only content review for this book I could find.
Find clean reads here: Homerun Reads (Notion)
Follow me to easily see my content reviews (if available) when you look up books here on Goodreads.
January 18, 2025
I’m disappointed. The idea of the book is really good but the writing lacks depth. It’s too factual. There are no emotions and you don’t feel how it must be hard to be chained for a year in an attic. And I seriously do not understand Stella who “feels” guilty about wanting things and having hope. 🤔
Also, why write a blurb that summarizes ALL the story before we read it? There are no surprises. We know what will happen. In my opinion, the author shouldn’t have said anything. She should’ve described what happens, how the characters react and feel. Then we could have an actual story and not just a recitation of events.
Also, why write a blurb that summarizes ALL the story before we read it? There are no surprises. We know what will happen. In my opinion, the author shouldn’t have said anything. She should’ve described what happens, how the characters react and feel. Then we could have an actual story and not just a recitation of events.
July 19, 2017
Well Written Enough....
The story was interesting, the characters were developed and there was enough world building to suit me. That being said, I hated all of the characters. Not a single character had enough redeeming qualities to make up for how horrid they were... petty thugs, snivelling cowards, thoughtlessly cruel and horrid characters all. I honestly hoped that they would all kill each other in the final battle, that hope was the only reason I finished the book. While I'm sure this will appeal to many, it's not for me.
The story was interesting, the characters were developed and there was enough world building to suit me. That being said, I hated all of the characters. Not a single character had enough redeeming qualities to make up for how horrid they were... petty thugs, snivelling cowards, thoughtlessly cruel and horrid characters all. I honestly hoped that they would all kill each other in the final battle, that hope was the only reason I finished the book. While I'm sure this will appeal to many, it's not for me.
September 20, 2017
While this story is well written it does need a few warnings posted with the book for those who can not do abuse scenes. As such that knocked the rating.
This is not a retelling of a fairy tale, nor is it a dark one. It has abuse towards children in it. Talk of killing said children. The author may think she did good on this one, but it is sadly lacking! This author has shifters abusing a child with both mental and physical abuse. There is no "shining light" in the end.
BUYER BE ware this book has MAJOR triggers!!
This is not a retelling of a fairy tale, nor is it a dark one. It has abuse towards children in it. Talk of killing said children. The author may think she did good on this one, but it is sadly lacking! This author has shifters abusing a child with both mental and physical abuse. There is no "shining light" in the end.
BUYER BE ware this book has MAJOR triggers!!
March 6, 2018
Heartbreaking
I liked the story line of this book. A little on the dark side but kept my interest. I could not believe a mother could treat her own flesh and blood the way she did. And having sisters? Now I understand jealousy and sibling rivalry but damn. Well, off to next book. I hope some questions are answered about a few things. Especially about Stella. She's not a wolf but her twin is. She has magic but no clue about it. Perhaps her mother really does hate her. Who knows?
I liked the story line of this book. A little on the dark side but kept my interest. I could not believe a mother could treat her own flesh and blood the way she did. And having sisters? Now I understand jealousy and sibling rivalry but damn. Well, off to next book. I hope some questions are answered about a few things. Especially about Stella. She's not a wolf but her twin is. She has magic but no clue about it. Perhaps her mother really does hate her. Who knows?
August 7, 2018
i really enjoyed Stella's story. There are so many questions that its opened up and makes me greedy to read the next book. I loved finding out about her sisters and a bit of what her family is like. There are so many questions (most of which just seem to kinda come out of no where to say "hey you wanna know about me") and so much that's unexplained that it kept me turning pages to find out every little bit I could about this world. This was a really great story and it left me begging for more and ready to dive right into book 2.
October 7, 2018
Very reviting!
After her father’s death, Stella is sent to live with her mother who is not what she seems. Stella lives a hard life there as she is a human and everyone else is not. This story seems as if it were a dark remake of Cinderella. But this author has a very unique way of telling the story in first person present tense. It is very reviting and well written. This is the first book I have read of this author and it won’t be the last. I highly recommend it to all those who love fantasy with a punch.
After her father’s death, Stella is sent to live with her mother who is not what she seems. Stella lives a hard life there as she is a human and everyone else is not. This story seems as if it were a dark remake of Cinderella. But this author has a very unique way of telling the story in first person present tense. It is very reviting and well written. This is the first book I have read of this author and it won’t be the last. I highly recommend it to all those who love fantasy with a punch.
February 6, 2019
Riveting ending with a twist you don't expect.
There were a few grammatical mistakes (wrong word, missing word), but not enough to make it annoying or hard to read. That is the reason why it doesn't get a five. The story line lagged in places, but the ending.... I had to cover up the rest of my screen with my hand so that I didn't try to read ahead. In my opinion, every book has spots that lag. You have to have a strong exposition. I don't think it necessarily makes a bad book.
There were a few grammatical mistakes (wrong word, missing word), but not enough to make it annoying or hard to read. That is the reason why it doesn't get a five. The story line lagged in places, but the ending.... I had to cover up the rest of my screen with my hand so that I didn't try to read ahead. In my opinion, every book has spots that lag. You have to have a strong exposition. I don't think it necessarily makes a bad book.
August 25, 2019
Twins separated by circumstance. Shifters bound by pack rules. Stella has her life turned on it’s ear and his summarily dropped on her mother’s doorstep. Mother is not pleased to see her and things go downhill from first meeting with her new family. Unwelcome, unwanted, and definitely unloved. Stella desperately wants a family but because she’s not a shifter she’s shunned by everyone. Harmon the guy she has feelings for thinks he wants her twin but does he really? Cliffhanger ending means another book to resolve things.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2018
This is an enjoyable story that draws from Cinderella variants and gives it a whole new spin.
Nasty maternal figure? Check.
Father out of the picture? Check.
Nasty sibling? Check.
Loads of drudgery and cleaning for the hero? Check.
Mice? Check.
Lovely dress? Check.
What is also has is an intriguing backstory and world setting, good dialogue, interesting supporting characters and more. This is a fun book in what I hope will be an in-depth, ongoing series.
Nasty maternal figure? Check.
Father out of the picture? Check.
Nasty sibling? Check.
Loads of drudgery and cleaning for the hero? Check.
Mice? Check.
Lovely dress? Check.
What is also has is an intriguing backstory and world setting, good dialogue, interesting supporting characters and more. This is a fun book in what I hope will be an in-depth, ongoing series.
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