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Fae of Cinders
There is fire in my veins.
A burning in my heart.
He sees me as the sun.
I see myself as chaos.
I want him
But he is everything I’m not.
They found her wrapped in white wool on the outskirts of the wood. She was covered in her mother’s blood but entirely unharmed—a human babe kissed by the fae forest. They called her a changeling, a curse, but the stories over time became swept under the rug, forgotten.
Ella knows the rumours aren’t entirely untrue. There is something about her that’s deadly, that’s fae, but she manages to keep all of this hidden until the day she can’t anymore—the day she chooses to enter into the forest to save her one and only friend, a servant she’s known since childhood.
It is there she encounters the fae prince of Glacialis. He sees in her what she wishes she could see in herself—goodness, and he promises to help her wield her powers, control that part of herself that is a fiery chaos.
But something happens that she didn’t she falls in love. A human loving a fae is forbidden—an abomination; it can end in both their deaths.
Now she has to choose—to love him or to live.
A burning in my heart.
He sees me as the sun.
I see myself as chaos.
I want him
But he is everything I’m not.
They found her wrapped in white wool on the outskirts of the wood. She was covered in her mother’s blood but entirely unharmed—a human babe kissed by the fae forest. They called her a changeling, a curse, but the stories over time became swept under the rug, forgotten.
Ella knows the rumours aren’t entirely untrue. There is something about her that’s deadly, that’s fae, but she manages to keep all of this hidden until the day she can’t anymore—the day she chooses to enter into the forest to save her one and only friend, a servant she’s known since childhood.
It is there she encounters the fae prince of Glacialis. He sees in her what she wishes she could see in herself—goodness, and he promises to help her wield her powers, control that part of herself that is a fiery chaos.
But something happens that she didn’t she falls in love. A human loving a fae is forbidden—an abomination; it can end in both their deaths.
Now she has to choose—to love him or to live.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2024
78 people are currently reading
349 people want to read
About the author
Cara E. Ruegg
13 books79 followersCara Ruegg is an artist who lives a happy life with her husband and children. Her days consist of bringing stories to life often while curled up in bed nursing her little one, baking and making endless messes with her toddler, lots of pretend play, and even more hugs and kisses! She is a Catholic convert and this can, she hopes, be reflected in some of her works. She hopes you enjoy her books! She writes mysteries as Eliza Floretta.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 29, 2024
✨ ARC REVIEW ✨
Fae of Cinders
By @cararwrites
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.75 rounded up)
Spice: 🫑
I’m so stoked I received this ARC to review. I love Cinderella and this retelling hits the mark - it’s original enough but still keeps the familiarity. Whimsical and alluring with magic and simple plot constructs.
Ella is a strong FMC but has her vulnerable moments. I really enjoy the fact that her personal growth is not just her figuring it out alone and she uses the support network she finds along the way. The relationships in this story are very simple in their dynamics as well as the world building so I did have to remind myself that this is a YA read - it’s very appropriate in that respect.
My only criticism I have is how fast paced the story is, it reads much like a standalone but keeps it open enough for a book 2. 👀
Thank you so much for the opportunity to review this book ❤️
Fae of Cinders
By @cararwrites
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.75 rounded up)
Spice: 🫑
I’m so stoked I received this ARC to review. I love Cinderella and this retelling hits the mark - it’s original enough but still keeps the familiarity. Whimsical and alluring with magic and simple plot constructs.
Ella is a strong FMC but has her vulnerable moments. I really enjoy the fact that her personal growth is not just her figuring it out alone and she uses the support network she finds along the way. The relationships in this story are very simple in their dynamics as well as the world building so I did have to remind myself that this is a YA read - it’s very appropriate in that respect.
My only criticism I have is how fast paced the story is, it reads much like a standalone but keeps it open enough for a book 2. 👀
Thank you so much for the opportunity to review this book ❤️
February 6, 2026
It was not for me but if you love Cinderella retellings and fae, you’ll probably enjoy it. I did not personally connect with the characters nor find them particularly interesting to read about. The plot left me a little wanting.
All in all it was not bad just not for me.
Content:
Violence, blood, death, grief, battles
All in all it was not bad just not for me.
Content:
Violence, blood, death, grief, battles
October 21, 2024
Superly obsessed with your writing style and the Prince. This book comes off as slice of life and cozy in a whimsical setting. There is so much time spent on the characters and getting to know them, it made it feel very organic like how time passes in real life or like in one of those slow easy romances. I love every bit of attention to detail this book holds. I think more than the plot, the characters shone as people. Ella’s struggles were real and her trying to control her magic. I like how patient he was with her. I’m kind of used to the ‘you must control your power’ part in a series and I’m glad that didn’t happen here. The halfling portion of the plot made for an interesting theme.
November 13, 2024
ARC REVIEW!!!
This book was absolutely fantastic! The pacing of the book was great and kept me interested the entire time. It did not drag on at all and there wasn’t any unnecessary information.
I also loved this rendition of Cinderella and the way that this storyline came back again at the end of the story. Having this be a bit of a cliffhanger was devastating because I wanted to read the next book immediately to see what happens with Ella.
I loved to see a strong fmc who wanted to be loved but who in the end put herself first and knew her worth instead of allowing a man to hide her because he was too much of a coward to pronounce his love for her.
However, I did really enjoy the development of the relationship between Ella and Lysander. You can see his constant fear of not making the right decisions for his people and for him self and I look forward to seeing how they reconnect in the next book.
As for the Cinderella retelling, it was not too heavily relied upon, but allowed for a relationship between Ella and the prince Gallien to arise, which led to the events unfolding where she would meet Lysander. I felt like this sequence was quite smart and well written.
Although I was given this as an ARC, I am being honest when I say that this book had me hooked from the first page and kept my interest until the very end. Often fantasy books can be quite long and this one was quick and snappy and was constantly filled with action. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style of this author and look forward to the next book in this series!
This book was absolutely fantastic! The pacing of the book was great and kept me interested the entire time. It did not drag on at all and there wasn’t any unnecessary information.
I also loved this rendition of Cinderella and the way that this storyline came back again at the end of the story. Having this be a bit of a cliffhanger was devastating because I wanted to read the next book immediately to see what happens with Ella.
I loved to see a strong fmc who wanted to be loved but who in the end put herself first and knew her worth instead of allowing a man to hide her because he was too much of a coward to pronounce his love for her.
However, I did really enjoy the development of the relationship between Ella and Lysander. You can see his constant fear of not making the right decisions for his people and for him self and I look forward to seeing how they reconnect in the next book.
As for the Cinderella retelling, it was not too heavily relied upon, but allowed for a relationship between Ella and the prince Gallien to arise, which led to the events unfolding where she would meet Lysander. I felt like this sequence was quite smart and well written.
Although I was given this as an ARC, I am being honest when I say that this book had me hooked from the first page and kept my interest until the very end. Often fantasy books can be quite long and this one was quick and snappy and was constantly filled with action. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style of this author and look forward to the next book in this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 27, 2025
this was so bad.
October 26, 2024
Rating: 3.75
Stunning cover! I love how it has certain elements of the story in the cover, related to our FMC Ella and MMC Lysander.
An easy and enjoyable read.
I recommend this to everyone who loves to read a heartfelt fantasy with fae and magic without heavy worldbuilding.
Keywords: fantasy, light romance, first -person pov, found family, elemental magic, fae, kingdoms, 2 princes, cinderella retelling, loveable characters, no spice.
I truly love the idea of the story - it has a good plot with straightforward worldbuilding.
I really like how the author integrated the Cinderella part in the story.
Some great and loveable characters. Personally I'm a Gallien girlie. 😉
I enjoyed the elemental magic descriptions and the setting of the woods, very immersive.
A heartwarming quote I annotated:
"That's what you are, Ella. You're a light in the dark. I don't know what happened in your life to make you doubt your goodness or fear yourself, but it's in the past. It's a new day, a new world. Here, you can start afresh."
Some conflicting thoughts:
I think the story could have been written a bit better. Near the ending it felt too easy and fast like its not fully thought through, not enough details.
(Skip the following spoiler if you don't want to know what exactly I mean)
So in my opinion the story didn't live up to its full potential.
I also disliked how the inner monologues of Ella were so repetitive about her feelings and Lysander, it made me just a little bit annoyed with her at some point. 😋
In general it was still a very pleasant read with beautiful scenery in a magical world. I really felt connected with the emotions throughout the book. I am really curious what will happen in the sequel. I definitely still want and need to read book 2. 🤭
Thank you Cara for the opportunity you have given me to read this as an advanced reader copy 🩷
Stunning cover! I love how it has certain elements of the story in the cover, related to our FMC Ella and MMC Lysander.
An easy and enjoyable read.
I recommend this to everyone who loves to read a heartfelt fantasy with fae and magic without heavy worldbuilding.
Keywords: fantasy, light romance, first -person pov, found family, elemental magic, fae, kingdoms, 2 princes, cinderella retelling, loveable characters, no spice.
I truly love the idea of the story - it has a good plot with straightforward worldbuilding.
I really like how the author integrated the Cinderella part in the story.
Some great and loveable characters. Personally I'm a Gallien girlie. 😉
I enjoyed the elemental magic descriptions and the setting of the woods, very immersive.
A heartwarming quote I annotated:
"That's what you are, Ella. You're a light in the dark. I don't know what happened in your life to make you doubt your goodness or fear yourself, but it's in the past. It's a new day, a new world. Here, you can start afresh."
Some conflicting thoughts:
I think the story could have been written a bit better. Near the ending it felt too easy and fast like its not fully thought through, not enough details.
(Skip the following spoiler if you don't want to know what exactly I mean)
So in my opinion the story didn't live up to its full potential.
I also disliked how the inner monologues of Ella were so repetitive about her feelings and Lysander, it made me just a little bit annoyed with her at some point. 😋
In general it was still a very pleasant read with beautiful scenery in a magical world. I really felt connected with the emotions throughout the book. I am really curious what will happen in the sequel. I definitely still want and need to read book 2. 🤭
Thank you Cara for the opportunity you have given me to read this as an advanced reader copy 🩷
November 2, 2024
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. This was a unique retelling of the Cinderella story that I really enjoyed. It was a light, easy read that teens of all ages would enjoy! I appreciate that it was a clean story and look forward to seeing the characters develop throughout the series (I hope it's a series!!)
My only issue would be that the ending felt a little rushed - I would've enjoyed a longer book!
Overall, an interesting book that deals with moral questions in a way that appeals to readers! Give this to your young adult fantasy reader for a fun, quick read!!
My only issue would be that the ending felt a little rushed - I would've enjoyed a longer book!
Overall, an interesting book that deals with moral questions in a way that appeals to readers! Give this to your young adult fantasy reader for a fun, quick read!!
June 9, 2025
It started out with some great ideas. However, this was just not for me. The love interest just was I had no idea how it happened. Because not much seemed to happen at all. The stakes did not feel high, very little tension. Even with what happened to the MFC best friend I had no feelings towards it. This book just didn't deliver any emotion from me. I liked the idea but not the execution which was too bad.
October 23, 2024
I just want to start off this review by saying growing up I LOVED Cinderella, so knowing this book was a retelling of my favorite made me so happy.
I could not put this book down it was so good with Ella and her struggles and getting to know her, I do wish we could have learned more about Lysander in this book though.
I just want to say a thank you for giving me the opportunity to receive this arc and review it!
I could not put this book down it was so good with Ella and her struggles and getting to know her, I do wish we could have learned more about Lysander in this book though.
I just want to say a thank you for giving me the opportunity to receive this arc and review it!
October 23, 2024
I finished this book in two days!! It was a great read! In this Cinderella retelling, the book follows Ella, a halfling (half fae) who gets lost in the woods and gets rescued by fae who take them to their “kingdom”. It is here that Ella starts her path of self-discovery and finds out that her future may be brighter than she ever hoped.
This book captured me instantly and I couldn’t put it down. The emotions that I went through reading this book will not be soon forgotten.
4.5⭐️
This book captured me instantly and I couldn’t put it down. The emotions that I went through reading this book will not be soon forgotten.
4.5⭐️
November 13, 2024
First off, I just want to give huge thank you to the author for sending me this arc! Also, that ending!! Oh my goodness I can’t wait to see where this series goes.
3.25 (rounding up) I have some mixed feelings about this book. I loved it, I was a bit annoyed, and then I loved it some more 😅
Plot: this was a fairly short book that left on a cliff hanger. I feel like it maybe since it’s a two book series, they could’ve been merged into one longer novel with two parts but that’s just my opinion. The character’s internal struggle was very very repetitive in some places, mostly revolving around the issue with Lysander. I get the issue but I’m not sure that it needed to be mentioned quite as often. Also, the plot felt a little rushed, like things could have been expounded upon just a little more. A lot of important things, like their time in the Fire kingdom, just felt really rushed over. I really do think this book could have benefited from being longer. But, I love the premise, and there was just something so cozy about this world, and especially their times in the forest. Something about that simple life is just so pure and sweet and a joy to read.
Characters: I had a bit of a love hate relationship with the main character 😅 Ella was so sweet and genuine and I just loved that about her, however, she was very quick to pass over Mae’s struggles and disregard her feelings which was sad to see. Mae was a fun character herself, and I would have loved to see more of her. Lysander was a great character (maybe a little too easily swayed by Ella at times but who am I to judge? 😅) I honestly really liked him. Launa was my favorite! Something about her character was just so intriguing and I hope we see more of her in the second book! Lastly, prince Gallien was a total sweetheart too, maybe a little creepy, but the boy’s just curious 😆 I really want to see more of him in the next book too! I may or may not be shipping him with Launa…. And just as a side note, I’m really hoping we see more of Micheal in the next book (iykyk) and or a a very nice young fire fae man…
Romance: the romance was a big part of this book, and most of Ella’s internal struggle was tied back to Lysander. But, this was a super mild romance in the sense that there wasn’t any kissing or steamy moments. Totally ya and I love that!
Age rating (spice, cussing, gore): no cursing, very minimal gore, and absolutely no spice, this book is a safe 11+!
Again, that you so so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book! I am excited to see where Ella goes in book 2!
3.25 (rounding up) I have some mixed feelings about this book. I loved it, I was a bit annoyed, and then I loved it some more 😅
Plot: this was a fairly short book that left on a cliff hanger. I feel like it maybe since it’s a two book series, they could’ve been merged into one longer novel with two parts but that’s just my opinion. The character’s internal struggle was very very repetitive in some places, mostly revolving around the issue with Lysander. I get the issue but I’m not sure that it needed to be mentioned quite as often. Also, the plot felt a little rushed, like things could have been expounded upon just a little more. A lot of important things, like their time in the Fire kingdom, just felt really rushed over. I really do think this book could have benefited from being longer. But, I love the premise, and there was just something so cozy about this world, and especially their times in the forest. Something about that simple life is just so pure and sweet and a joy to read.
Characters: I had a bit of a love hate relationship with the main character 😅 Ella was so sweet and genuine and I just loved that about her, however, she was very quick to pass over Mae’s struggles and disregard her feelings which was sad to see. Mae was a fun character herself, and I would have loved to see more of her. Lysander was a great character (maybe a little too easily swayed by Ella at times but who am I to judge? 😅) I honestly really liked him. Launa was my favorite! Something about her character was just so intriguing and I hope we see more of her in the second book! Lastly, prince Gallien was a total sweetheart too, maybe a little creepy, but the boy’s just curious 😆 I really want to see more of him in the next book too! I may or may not be shipping him with Launa…. And just as a side note, I’m really hoping we see more of Micheal in the next book (iykyk) and or a a very nice young fire fae man…
Romance: the romance was a big part of this book, and most of Ella’s internal struggle was tied back to Lysander. But, this was a super mild romance in the sense that there wasn’t any kissing or steamy moments. Totally ya and I love that!
Age rating (spice, cussing, gore): no cursing, very minimal gore, and absolutely no spice, this book is a safe 11+!
Again, that you so so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book! I am excited to see where Ella goes in book 2!
November 3, 2024
ⓐⓡⓒ ⓡⓔⓥⓘⓔⓦ
𝕱𝖆𝖊 𝖔𝖋 𝕮𝖎𝖓𝖉𝖊𝖗𝖘
ʙʏ: 𝙲𝚊𝚛𝚊 𝚁𝚎𝚞𝚐𝚐
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀsᴇ: 𝙽𝚘𝚟 𝟷𝟻𝚝𝚑
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
~“Whatever it is you want to see, Ella, if you’re meant to see it- you will. If not, let it go. Toss it like a rock in the river. You do not need it holding you down” ~ 🥺
I honestly don’t know how I’ll go on without knowing what’s next! This was such a fast-paced read—a dark Cinderella retelling packed with action, magic, and fae! Fae of Cinders is “no spice,” but even as a fan of ALL the spice, I loved every bit of this. The slow burn forbidden romance is 🔥 still. Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, it surprised me in the best ways! And that ending … 😮💨
From the beginning, there was something special about Ella. Found as a baby beside her mother in the woods, she had a fire inside her—one that might burn down everything, including her stepfamily, who takes advantage of what’s rightfully hers.
Seizing her chance to escape her sad life, Ella enlists her friend Mae to help her make an impression on Prince Gallien. But unfortunate greed and jealousy leads Ella and Mae deep into the forest with the fae. The fae are said to be monsters but stay at bay when the kingdom offers them human sacrifices. Soon, truths about them and Ella’s own past begin to emerge.
Just when they think they’re done for, a striking fae literally sweeps Ella off her feet, carrying her high above the trees to lands where she’ll discover what sets her apart from other humans. This journey spirals into a conflict between fae and fae, kingdoms and loyalties, leading to a war that could change everything—and a heart torn between two. It all ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you questioning everything.
𝕱𝖆𝖊 𝖔𝖋 𝕮𝖎𝖓𝖉𝖊𝖗𝖘
ʙʏ: 𝙲𝚊𝚛𝚊 𝚁𝚎𝚞𝚐𝚐
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀsᴇ: 𝙽𝚘𝚟 𝟷𝟻𝚝𝚑
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
~“Whatever it is you want to see, Ella, if you’re meant to see it- you will. If not, let it go. Toss it like a rock in the river. You do not need it holding you down” ~ 🥺
I honestly don’t know how I’ll go on without knowing what’s next! This was such a fast-paced read—a dark Cinderella retelling packed with action, magic, and fae! Fae of Cinders is “no spice,” but even as a fan of ALL the spice, I loved every bit of this. The slow burn forbidden romance is 🔥 still. Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, it surprised me in the best ways! And that ending … 😮💨
From the beginning, there was something special about Ella. Found as a baby beside her mother in the woods, she had a fire inside her—one that might burn down everything, including her stepfamily, who takes advantage of what’s rightfully hers.
Seizing her chance to escape her sad life, Ella enlists her friend Mae to help her make an impression on Prince Gallien. But unfortunate greed and jealousy leads Ella and Mae deep into the forest with the fae. The fae are said to be monsters but stay at bay when the kingdom offers them human sacrifices. Soon, truths about them and Ella’s own past begin to emerge.
Just when they think they’re done for, a striking fae literally sweeps Ella off her feet, carrying her high above the trees to lands where she’ll discover what sets her apart from other humans. This journey spirals into a conflict between fae and fae, kingdoms and loyalties, leading to a war that could change everything—and a heart torn between two. It all ends on a cliffhanger that leaves you questioning everything.
November 10, 2024
First off I just want to say that any fantasy book under 300 pages makes me sad. A fantasy book under 200 pages? That should just be a crime and is an isult to fantsy readers. Especially if the book ends as a TBC that is just a let down. Whatever book 2 is should've just been combined with book 1 as one decent sized book.
With that being said, I was excited to read this retelling but it honestly let me down and made me dislike it the more I read. Lysander is basically Tamlin. That should help most readers know what they're getting when they read this book. Ella spends the entire book going back and forth between 'I hate who I am, im ashamed' to 'why should I be ashamed of who I am?'. She tells her best friend, who is a servant, that she cant be seen with her when she heads to the ball. Seriously? That instantly made me lose all interest and respect for Ella. She meets her biological father, only for him to say he loves her but must hide her away so nobody knows she's associated with him. Lysander, uses her to win a war and become king, only for him to tell her that she can be his secret mistress and that he also can't be seen around her. The Human prince that wants her, helps win the war for her, and has openly said that he will make her his queen is literally her best option. She leaves with him, only to stop and change her mind and go back to her father's land where she has to hide her affiliation. Ella got a major does of karma from dissing her only friend the way that she did, and I'm all for it.
This book should have the trigger warning 'will piss you off'.
With that being said, I was excited to read this retelling but it honestly let me down and made me dislike it the more I read. Lysander is basically Tamlin. That should help most readers know what they're getting when they read this book. Ella spends the entire book going back and forth between 'I hate who I am, im ashamed' to 'why should I be ashamed of who I am?'. She tells her best friend, who is a servant, that she cant be seen with her when she heads to the ball. Seriously? That instantly made me lose all interest and respect for Ella. She meets her biological father, only for him to say he loves her but must hide her away so nobody knows she's associated with him. Lysander, uses her to win a war and become king, only for him to tell her that she can be his secret mistress and that he also can't be seen around her. The Human prince that wants her, helps win the war for her, and has openly said that he will make her his queen is literally her best option. She leaves with him, only to stop and change her mind and go back to her father's land where she has to hide her affiliation. Ella got a major does of karma from dissing her only friend the way that she did, and I'm all for it.
This book should have the trigger warning 'will piss you off'.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2025
***Thank you, Cara, for the opportunity to read this as an advanced reader copy!***
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! The pacing was masterfully done, keeping me hooked the entire time without any unnecessary filler or dragging moments. I especially loved the clever reimagining of the Cinderella story, with smart, subtle nods to the original tale while building a unique and captivating world. The way the Cinderella theme tied back into the ending, leading to a heart-wrenching cliff hanger, left me eager to pick up the sequel immediately.
Ella is a strong, relatable protagonist who knows her worth and refuses to compromise, even when faced with difficult choices in love. Her dynamic with Lysander stood out—his internal struggle between duty and desire added depth and made their relationship incredibly compelling. Prince Gallien added another layer of complexity to the story, and his role was both intriguing and well-written. But it left me wanting to know more about Prince Gallien.
While the book was action-packed and easy to devour, there were a few areas that felt rushed. The beginning could have used more detail, as well as the "sacrifice calls" and the time spent in the Fire Kingdom, which could have been expanded to enrich the world-building. I also found Ella’s inner conflict about Lysander slightly repetitive at times, and I wanted more attention on Mae’s storyline, as her character had so much untapped potential. Who was Mae and how did she become a servant?
Another lingering question was about Ella’s stepmother and stepsisters—what ultimately happened to them? Additionally, Launa was such an intriguing character, and I’m eager to learn more about her backstory and her high-ranking position. I can’t wait to see how these threads are explored in the next installment, along with further development of Lysander, Prince Gallien, and Launa!
The romance in this book was sweet, subtle, and perfectly age-appropriate. With no spice, no cursing, and minimal gore, this is a safe read for all ages. The cozy and engaging writing style made exploring this fantasy world an absolute joy.
Overall, this book was a fantastic mix of romance, adventure, and heart. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a fresh twist on a classic tale, and I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series!
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! The pacing was masterfully done, keeping me hooked the entire time without any unnecessary filler or dragging moments. I especially loved the clever reimagining of the Cinderella story, with smart, subtle nods to the original tale while building a unique and captivating world. The way the Cinderella theme tied back into the ending, leading to a heart-wrenching cliff hanger, left me eager to pick up the sequel immediately.
Ella is a strong, relatable protagonist who knows her worth and refuses to compromise, even when faced with difficult choices in love. Her dynamic with Lysander stood out—his internal struggle between duty and desire added depth and made their relationship incredibly compelling. Prince Gallien added another layer of complexity to the story, and his role was both intriguing and well-written. But it left me wanting to know more about Prince Gallien.
While the book was action-packed and easy to devour, there were a few areas that felt rushed. The beginning could have used more detail, as well as the "sacrifice calls" and the time spent in the Fire Kingdom, which could have been expanded to enrich the world-building. I also found Ella’s inner conflict about Lysander slightly repetitive at times, and I wanted more attention on Mae’s storyline, as her character had so much untapped potential. Who was Mae and how did she become a servant?
Another lingering question was about Ella’s stepmother and stepsisters—what ultimately happened to them? Additionally, Launa was such an intriguing character, and I’m eager to learn more about her backstory and her high-ranking position. I can’t wait to see how these threads are explored in the next installment, along with further development of Lysander, Prince Gallien, and Launa!
The romance in this book was sweet, subtle, and perfectly age-appropriate. With no spice, no cursing, and minimal gore, this is a safe read for all ages. The cozy and engaging writing style made exploring this fantasy world an absolute joy.
Overall, this book was a fantastic mix of romance, adventure, and heart. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a fresh twist on a classic tale, and I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series!
July 5, 2025
👑 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖: Fae of Cinders
📖 Author: Cara E. Ruegg
🏰 Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Princess retelling
🎀 Date Finished: July 4th, 2025
《 ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ | 3/5 Stars 》
🧚♀️ Characters:
⤷ 💖Ella: Sweet, kind, perfect Cinderella-but-not-actually, I was just not able to connect with her. Her character was spot on, I just struggled with the writing style.
⤷ 🩵Lysander: Cute, just not able to connect fully. His denial and princely stuff, and the things he said at the end... really buddy!?!
⤷ ❤️Gallien: To be perfectly honest, I liked Gallien more than Lysander. If only Ella had more time with him...
💋 Romance:
➳ Practically nothing, a forehead kiss... yearning... literally that's all. I may be missing more, though.
🎭 Plot:
➳ Great plot!! I loved the idea, and I could see the Cinderella in it, but it just didn't feel complete.
🖋 Writing Style:
➳ Okay, here's where I can talk. Some of the descriptions- LOVED them!! So lush and captivating. However, some of the sentences I just struggled with. It felt kinda cheesy, and I skipped through some pages, mainly to get to the end.
Will be reading 2nd book, just to get some closure on this! However, if someone is looking for a quick read, here's your book!
📖 Author: Cara E. Ruegg
🏰 Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Princess retelling
🎀 Date Finished: July 4th, 2025
《 ⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ | 3/5 Stars 》
🧚♀️ Characters:
⤷ 💖Ella: Sweet, kind, perfect Cinderella-but-not-actually, I was just not able to connect with her. Her character was spot on, I just struggled with the writing style.
⤷ 🩵Lysander: Cute, just not able to connect fully. His denial and princely stuff, and the things he said at the end... really buddy!?!
⤷ ❤️Gallien: To be perfectly honest, I liked Gallien more than Lysander. If only Ella had more time with him...
💋 Romance:
➳ Practically nothing, a forehead kiss... yearning... literally that's all. I may be missing more, though.
🎭 Plot:
➳ Great plot!! I loved the idea, and I could see the Cinderella in it, but it just didn't feel complete.
🖋 Writing Style:
➳ Okay, here's where I can talk. Some of the descriptions- LOVED them!! So lush and captivating. However, some of the sentences I just struggled with. It felt kinda cheesy, and I skipped through some pages, mainly to get to the end.
Will be reading 2nd book, just to get some closure on this! However, if someone is looking for a quick read, here's your book!
October 19, 2024
I received this as an ARC so here is my honest review.
I really loved it! I love Lysander and Ella, both as a couple and as their individual characters. I also quite like Michael.
Since it was a retelling, I knew it would have similarities to the actual Cinderella story, but I didn't know how similar it would be. I really liked how much different it was from the original story, but it still had enough similarities to be a retelling.
Michael made me think of St. Michael the Archangel. I wonder if he's based off of him? Maybe I'm just trying too hard to find similarities between the two. I mean, they have the same name and Michael came at the perfect time to help Ella, and St. Micheal helps us in our need.
As I neared the end I thought, "how is this going to tie up?" I didn't realize that it's gonna be part of a series. When I saw the to be continued at the end I was disappointed that I would have to wait for the next book. I can't wait for the next one!
I'm so thankful that I was able to receive Fae of Cinders as an ARC. I thank the Lord for this opportunity.
I really loved it! I love Lysander and Ella, both as a couple and as their individual characters. I also quite like Michael.
Since it was a retelling, I knew it would have similarities to the actual Cinderella story, but I didn't know how similar it would be. I really liked how much different it was from the original story, but it still had enough similarities to be a retelling.
Michael made me think of St. Michael the Archangel. I wonder if he's based off of him? Maybe I'm just trying too hard to find similarities between the two. I mean, they have the same name and Michael came at the perfect time to help Ella, and St. Micheal helps us in our need.
As I neared the end I thought, "how is this going to tie up?" I didn't realize that it's gonna be part of a series. When I saw the to be continued at the end I was disappointed that I would have to wait for the next book. I can't wait for the next one!
I'm so thankful that I was able to receive Fae of Cinders as an ARC. I thank the Lord for this opportunity.
November 6, 2024
-fae
-magic
-cinderella re-telling
-multiple kingdoms
-found family
If Cinderella is your favorite fairytale, then this is the book for you. Cara Ruegg puts her own twist to the original fairytale, with magic, fae, action, and possibly two prince love interests: one fae and one human. Ella, our FMC, gets lost one day in the forest when she tries to save her best friend Mae from the "sacrifice". While on the run, they are rescued by our MMC Lysander, a fae prince who becomes intrigued by Ella, especially because she is a hafling, half human and half fae.
This book is mainly Ella' journey to figuring out who she really is, where she comes from, and where she belongs. I loved the references to the original Cinderella tale and the different take on fae and who they are and what they believe in. I also really loved that with everything Ella endures during her journey, she knows her own worth and doesn't settle for anything less, even if she is left heartbroken.
I can't wait for the next book, to see what happens, not only to Ellas, but with Lysander and Gallien.
-magic
-cinderella re-telling
-multiple kingdoms
-found family
If Cinderella is your favorite fairytale, then this is the book for you. Cara Ruegg puts her own twist to the original fairytale, with magic, fae, action, and possibly two prince love interests: one fae and one human. Ella, our FMC, gets lost one day in the forest when she tries to save her best friend Mae from the "sacrifice". While on the run, they are rescued by our MMC Lysander, a fae prince who becomes intrigued by Ella, especially because she is a hafling, half human and half fae.
This book is mainly Ella' journey to figuring out who she really is, where she comes from, and where she belongs. I loved the references to the original Cinderella tale and the different take on fae and who they are and what they believe in. I also really loved that with everything Ella endures during her journey, she knows her own worth and doesn't settle for anything less, even if she is left heartbroken.
I can't wait for the next book, to see what happens, not only to Ellas, but with Lysander and Gallien.
May 5, 2025
This beautifully written book will draw you into a fairy world from the beginning. Ella is a girl just trying to figure out who she is and where she belongs in the world. She seems fairy like and the world she lives in can be beautiful. Her world and the characters are exquisitely detailed. You can see the beauty and darkness as if you’re looking through a glass and watching it happen. The story is believable and the characters are very human like with their flaws and strengths. It is a shorter novel that does leave you hanging on tight, waiting for the next one. I dare you to try not to fall in love with Lysander. He’s a way cooler prince than Prince Charming.
Rating: (possibly spoiler): 14+. Illegitimacy due to possible past pre marital relations comes up. Topic of “concubine” comes up near end. All told in taste and not too explicit.
Rating: (possibly spoiler): 14+. Illegitimacy due to possible past pre marital relations comes up. Topic of “concubine” comes up near end. All told in taste and not too explicit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2024
I really enjoyed this novel. It was not the typical Cinderella story. This is a very original telling of the fairytale and I have never read one quite like it. Ella is very strong and I really enjoy her personality. The story line was well planned and the story flowed very well. I did get worried as I got closer to the end of the book and everything was not quite wrapped up; There is certainly a cliffhanger at the end. I am not invested in the story and will be continuing when the next installment in the series is released. I will also add that this was a clean read and I would feel comfortable letting my soon to be teenage daughter read it as well.
November 7, 2024
I was lucky enough to be able to read and review this book prior to release.
It was a wonderful, heartwarming retelling of the Cinderella story which is presented as YA fantasy.
Although there were moments where the storyline could have been expanded on, it was well pitched for its intended audience.
The main character, Ella, experiences a number of challenges including her own concerns of not being good enough or worthy enough. As a reader, we get to follow her journey to see her grow and adapt to others pre-conceived ideas alongside her growing self awarenss. Please let there be a book 2!
It was a wonderful, heartwarming retelling of the Cinderella story which is presented as YA fantasy.
Although there were moments where the storyline could have been expanded on, it was well pitched for its intended audience.
The main character, Ella, experiences a number of challenges including her own concerns of not being good enough or worthy enough. As a reader, we get to follow her journey to see her grow and adapt to others pre-conceived ideas alongside her growing self awarenss. Please let there be a book 2!
October 20, 2024
I received this as an ARC so here is my honest review.
Fae of Cinders, by Cara E Ruegg is a Cinderella retelling. I really enjoyed how she changed the original story. I also liked getting to know Ella. I wish we would have learned more about Lysander, possibly a duel POV. But it was still a great story.
The only reason I am giving Fae of Cinders 4 stars instead of 5 is because I felt like it was somewhat rushed. We covered months of time in 230 pages, and I feel that it skipped over a lot. But overall, great story line. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
Fae of Cinders, by Cara E Ruegg is a Cinderella retelling. I really enjoyed how she changed the original story. I also liked getting to know Ella. I wish we would have learned more about Lysander, possibly a duel POV. But it was still a great story.
The only reason I am giving Fae of Cinders 4 stars instead of 5 is because I felt like it was somewhat rushed. We covered months of time in 230 pages, and I feel that it skipped over a lot. But overall, great story line. I am looking forward to reading the next book.
November 9, 2024
What a quaint Cinderella retelling!
I love how there were aspects that remained true to the fairytale such as the icky step mother and sisters, loss of a glass slipper and of course the prince's infatuation with Ella.
I love how Ella is able to find and come into herself. Even in times of doubt, she stayed strong and true. Even when faced with the problem of war, she stood strong and did what she could.
It very much reads like a standalone but has an ending that suggests an addition, which is nice. It was fast paced but slow burn romance.
I love how there were aspects that remained true to the fairytale such as the icky step mother and sisters, loss of a glass slipper and of course the prince's infatuation with Ella.
I love how Ella is able to find and come into herself. Even in times of doubt, she stayed strong and true. Even when faced with the problem of war, she stood strong and did what she could.
It very much reads like a standalone but has an ending that suggests an addition, which is nice. It was fast paced but slow burn romance.
November 14, 2024
This reimagined Cinderella brings a fresh take on the classic, with plenty of magical moments and great moral lessons. Ella is kind, sensitive, and resilient, showing that goodness really does make a difference, even when life is tough. Overall, it’s a great read that emphasizes kindness and courage, perfect for readers looking for clean romance, a strong, virtuous yet sensitive lead character. (It’s so inspiring that the author was able to pair both emotional sensitivity with inner strength. It makes the story much more relatable! ) Definitely hungry for book 2!
October 11, 2025
This was a cozy, low stakes read. It was extremely fast paced but less than 300 pages. I like the idea of the story and the plot was interesting but I think it lacked the depth it needed to boost it to 4 or 5 stars. It’s written in first person pov but there’s no inner dialogue. The romance was completely out of nowhere (they had one conversation and fell in love) It’s hard to infer how the FMC feels much less anyone else. I’ll probably read the second book to see how’s things play out and hopefully we get to see more of the characters and world building.
October 24, 2024
Wow!! Loved this book. What happens when a Fae/human halfling escapes from certain death into a Fae forest? Forbidden love develops but Ella is no more welcome there than she is in the human world by anyone other than her new found love. Can she keep her true identity hidden? Can she ever find a place where she truly belongs? This is a page turning story of struggles endured for the one you love.
November 15, 2024
Fae of Cinders by Cara Ruegg is a delightful retelling of Cinderella. I am a fan of Cara Rueggs' other books, so I was very excited to get to read this one early. The world building drew me in from the first chapter. The characters and storyline kept me engaged. I enjoyed watching the forbidden romance grow. This is a great story for the intended audience, and the spice level is perfect as it is sweet and clean. It's a perfect stocking stuffer for sure.
November 18, 2024
The story was pretty fast paced and I feel like things happened way faster than they should have, especially the battle. It did take me a while to get through because I did not feel very invested in this story or the characters unfortunately, but I do think (and can see based on the current reviews) that it will be right up other people's alley! Just because it wasn't really for me doesn't mean you won't like it! Please give this book a try! :)
June 16, 2025
Very whimsical and pretty. I enjoyed the magic and how this had tiny bits of the original story we all know of Cinderella. This isn't the greatest masterpiece you will read but I couldn't put it down. I'm not a huge fan of insta- love. I was not expecting so much Fae lore in this and it's nothing like typical fantasy fae we are used to reading about. Also, no Fairy Godmother but Ella is SASSY with her fire.
June 25, 2025
i really liked that it was classic fairytale meets fantasy but it was definitely more fantasy. it moved a lot quicker than i’m used to with fantasy so there wasn’t much time for world building or to get invested in the characters. i think it’s a great intro to fantasy book. it ended on a “to be continued” and i wasn’t hooked enough to want to read the next book but i will admit i’m intrigued because it wasn’t a terrible read. i definitely think an expanded version would be better
December 1, 2024
This book is so detailed that the characters felt real. This is a Cinderella retelling, and honestly, I loved this retelling. It didn't feel over the top like most Cinderella retellings. I haven't read anything like it. I know Cinderella has been overly done, but I loved this. I wish I could read this again for the first time.
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