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Five Glass Slippers
A Collection to Cherish
What happens when Cinderella is so painfully shy that she cannot bear the idea of attending the royal ball? Or when the slipper fits . . . but on the wrong girl? What happens when Cinderella is determined to oust an imposter prince from her rightful throne? Or when she is a cendrillon miner working from a space station orbiting a cthonian planet? What happens when Cinderella, a humble housemaid, is sent with a message for a prisoner trapped in a frightening fairy circus?
Here is Cinderella as you have never met her before, wearing glass slippers and off on unforgettable adventures!
WHAT EYES CAN SEE ~ BROKEN GLASS ~ THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE ~ A CINDER’S TALE ~ THE MOON MASTER’S BALL
What happens when Cinderella is so painfully shy that she cannot bear the idea of attending the royal ball? Or when the slipper fits . . . but on the wrong girl? What happens when Cinderella is determined to oust an imposter prince from her rightful throne? Or when she is a cendrillon miner working from a space station orbiting a cthonian planet? What happens when Cinderella, a humble housemaid, is sent with a message for a prisoner trapped in a frightening fairy circus?
Here is Cinderella as you have never met her before, wearing glass slippers and off on unforgettable adventures!
WHAT EYES CAN SEE ~ BROKEN GLASS ~ THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE ~ A CINDER’S TALE ~ THE MOON MASTER’S BALL
457 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2014
41 people are currently reading
5061 people want to read
About the author
Anne Elisabeth Stengl
20 books806 followersAnne Elisabeth Stengl makes her home in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Rohan, a passel of cats, and one long-suffering dog. When she's not writing, she enjoys Shakespeare, opera, and tea, and studies piano, painting, and pastry baking. She studied illustration at Grace College and English literature at Campbell University. She is the author of the TALES OF GOLDSTONE WOOD, which currently includes seven novels and two novellas, with plenty more works due to release over the next few years. Her novels HEARTLESS, VEILED ROSE, and DRAGONWITCH have each been honored with a Christy Award, and STARFLOWER was voted winner of the 2013 Clive Staples Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
April 25, 2023
I typically give short story collections 3 stars because they tend to be a mixed bag. However, I really enjoyed the majority of the stories in the collection and even the one I liked the least I still thought was more or less okay, so I’m giving this a four star rating. I’ve had this book on my shelf forever and I’m glad I finally picked it up.
What Eyes Can See (Elisabeth Brown) — 4 stars
This was a really interesting take on the Cinderella story. It was totally unlike any other retelling of it that I have read before. It was a very sweet story and I liked seeing more character development in Drusilla. The editor mentioned in the Forward that as soon as she read this story she wanted to include it as the first in the collection and I can totally see why. It was enjoyable, and surprisingly well developed for being a novella.
Broken Glass (Emma Clifton) — 4 stars
Another retelling that managed to be completely unlike the prior Cinderella retellings that I have read. It ended on an interesting note, and I saw that the author had a sequel novella but it appears to be out of print(?) because I could not find it on Amazon, which is a bummer because I would have liked to read that one. I liked the take on fairy godmothers and magic. Like the first story, the Cinderella character was more or less a side character, which was an interesting twist.
The Windy Side of Care (Rachel Heffington) — 2.5 stars
This one was a bit of a dud, unfortunately. The political situation wasn’t well developed and it seemed like Cinderella and the love interest were related??? I thought he was her brother at one point. I don’t think he actually was, but it was a little confusing, since he was the Prince but she was actually the abandoned Princess trying to take her kingdom back. I didn’t like their romance as much either; it was definitely the most instalovey of the three so far. I liked the idea of this one but the execution was lacking.
A Cinder’s Tale (Stephanie Ricker) — 3 stars
I really enjoyed all the nods to the Disney version in this story. There were characters named Jaq (whose last name is Perrault, a clever nod to the original author of Cinderella, Charles Perrault), Gus, and Bruno, and the station they are working on is called Tremaine Station. I liked seeing all those fun references. I’m not the biggest fan of sci fi but I still liked this one. It was cute and fun.
The Moon Master’s Ball (Clara Diane Thompson) — 4.5 stars
This one was mr favorite in the collection. This story was the reason I purchased the book, to be honest. It was an interesting blend of Cinderella and The Nutcracker, with some vibes of Caraval (one of my favorite books ever). My only complaint was that it was too short! I would have loved more in this world. It was quite atmospheric and definitely the spookiest of the five stories (though not scary at all). I really enjoyed this one.
What Eyes Can See (Elisabeth Brown) — 4 stars
This was a really interesting take on the Cinderella story. It was totally unlike any other retelling of it that I have read before. It was a very sweet story and I liked seeing more character development in Drusilla. The editor mentioned in the Forward that as soon as she read this story she wanted to include it as the first in the collection and I can totally see why. It was enjoyable, and surprisingly well developed for being a novella.
Broken Glass (Emma Clifton) — 4 stars
Another retelling that managed to be completely unlike the prior Cinderella retellings that I have read. It ended on an interesting note, and I saw that the author had a sequel novella but it appears to be out of print(?) because I could not find it on Amazon, which is a bummer because I would have liked to read that one. I liked the take on fairy godmothers and magic. Like the first story, the Cinderella character was more or less a side character, which was an interesting twist.
The Windy Side of Care (Rachel Heffington) — 2.5 stars
This one was a bit of a dud, unfortunately. The political situation wasn’t well developed and it seemed like Cinderella and the love interest were related??? I thought he was her brother at one point. I don’t think he actually was, but it was a little confusing, since he was the Prince but she was actually the abandoned Princess trying to take her kingdom back. I didn’t like their romance as much either; it was definitely the most instalovey of the three so far. I liked the idea of this one but the execution was lacking.
A Cinder’s Tale (Stephanie Ricker) — 3 stars
I really enjoyed all the nods to the Disney version in this story. There were characters named Jaq (whose last name is Perrault, a clever nod to the original author of Cinderella, Charles Perrault), Gus, and Bruno, and the station they are working on is called Tremaine Station. I liked seeing all those fun references. I’m not the biggest fan of sci fi but I still liked this one. It was cute and fun.
The Moon Master’s Ball (Clara Diane Thompson) — 4.5 stars
This one was mr favorite in the collection. This story was the reason I purchased the book, to be honest. It was an interesting blend of Cinderella and The Nutcracker, with some vibes of Caraval (one of my favorite books ever). My only complaint was that it was too short! I would have loved more in this world. It was quite atmospheric and definitely the spookiest of the five stories (though not scary at all). I really enjoyed this one.
June 12, 2019
This is where I make a fairytale pun about how this collection is 'magical' or 'enchanting'. I can't think of anything clever right now, so do me a favor and pretend like I did.
What Eyes Can See:
Pros- Easily the most classical story in the collection, What Eyes Can See enchanted me with its perspectives on love at first sight. But equally lovely was what was not said. Am I alone in thinking that the unnamed fourth woman on Frederick's list of possible brides was the other stepsister, Anastasia?
Cons- I had an issue with the main character of this story. You see, it's not Cinderella. It's not even her stepsister. It's the ball. Everything in this story focuses in on that one event and its aftermath, so I never had an opportunity to see the characters when they weren't being subjected to emotional upheaval.
Broken Glass:
Pros- This story had the best descriptions of the collection. It also juggled more storylines than the others and did so with grace. I adored Rosalind and Evelyn as foils to each other, and the stepsisters cast as the two princes had me in giggles.
Cons- Like WECS, the characters were under pressure throughout the whole story. Because of that, although Henry and Rosalind had serious relationship issues, I had no way of knowing their relationship wasn't this rocky until the issues were resolved. I also could not suspend my disbelief on the cart-to-steam-carriage sequences of inventions, although that barely affected the story.
The Windy Side of Care:
Pros- This had the strongest beginning of the stories and was the only one to use first person, which it handled nicely. The author also did British-speak beautifully, in addition to multiple other languages! It had my favorite version of the fairy godmother.
Cons- The main conflict here is that Alisandra wants the throne and Auguste doesn't. The ideal solution would be for them to marry and her to rule, but both usually clever characters overlook this. This might've been resolved if, instead of pretending to drop it, Auguste deliberately broke the glass slipper, thus proving to the court, himself, his parents, and Alisandra that he is forceful enough to rule. I can't help but feel that either the main issue is not resolved by the end of the story or that there never was an issue to begin with, and the two main characters must complicated things for themselves.
A Cinder's Tale:
Pros- Are you sure this author isn't a science major? Elsa and her friends speak flawless scientific jargon, sounding completely knowledgeable and unapproachable while simultaneously inviting me to follow their explanations. I believe this is the best-written short story, so my cons might be exceedingly minute.
Cons- At the beginning of the story, Elsa, with no real prompting, remembers seeing her overseer with a mysterious case, looking furtive. I logically came to the conclusion that the overseer was planting a bomb somewhere on the station, although I assume that, in the future, such devices will likely be smaller than a cello. It was not until later, when the 'stepsisters' complained of the overseer excessively listening to cello music that it occurred to me that the mysterious instrument case-shaped object might be... an instrument case. (This also would've been a natural occasion for Elsa to remember seeing the case.) In other news, I thought some events needed a bit more dwelling on; namely, when Elsa believes she can't attend the ball, and then later when she must take command.
The Moon Master's Ball:
Pros- This book brought me the cool crispness of autumn on a disgusting summer day in North Carolina. I tend to dislike using this word in the context of literature, but this story was delicious. The tone reminded me greatly of the spooky opening music of the Cinderella ballet.
Cons- I have read in other reviews that people find the climax of this short story rushed. I am inclined to only partially agree with that; instead of rushed, I found it disconnected from the rest of the story. It is unclear why Mrs. Carlisle targets Tilly at the end (or even the initial time, resulting in Tilly's scar) when her goal has always been to snatch up the Moon Master. In this regard MMB did remind me of Diana Wynne Jones; some things, like the title Moon Master, are never explained and seem more fairytale because of that. On a smaller note, I felt that Tilly tried too hard to be a realistically-flawed character; instead of proceeding nature, she fretted about times when she felt jealousy or other small, common emotions.
OVERALL:
Cons first, so as not to leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth- The only thing I truly disliked in this collection was the order of the stories, which went by authors' last names. Because of this, BG and TWSOC, the two most similar stories in the collection, came one after the other. Ideally, I would've liked the order to be Broken Glass (the strongest beginning), What Eyes Can See (the most classical), The Windy Side of Care (the most amusing), The Moon Master's Ball (the most unique tone), and A Cinder's Tale (the strongest end). (Of course, BG does open up next year's contest, so the collection could easily finish as well.)
I only spotted one editing error: an ellipsis in MMB trailed over two lines. Not a big deal.
I found the repetitious names another small issue. Two separate Anastasias are referenced in different stories. Similarly, Lady Alisandra Carlisle from TWSOC felt greatly at odds with the despicable Mrs. Carlisle from MMB.
Pros- This is a gorgeous collection, and I cannot urge you strongly enough to read it. As someone who participated in the Five Glass Slippers contest but was not chosen, reading it soothed any lingering discontent I had over the matter. I cannot picture any versions of Cinderella that I would rather see in this collection, and I am so very proud of the marvelous authors and editor who collaborated to make this happen.
Now I have to get back to studying ancient slavery and the making of scrolls if my entry is ever going to be ready for next year's contest. Best of luck to other aspiring competitors! : )
What Eyes Can See:
Pros- Easily the most classical story in the collection, What Eyes Can See enchanted me with its perspectives on love at first sight. But equally lovely was what was not said. Am I alone in thinking that the unnamed fourth woman on Frederick's list of possible brides was the other stepsister, Anastasia?
Cons- I had an issue with the main character of this story. You see, it's not Cinderella. It's not even her stepsister. It's the ball. Everything in this story focuses in on that one event and its aftermath, so I never had an opportunity to see the characters when they weren't being subjected to emotional upheaval.
Broken Glass:
Pros- This story had the best descriptions of the collection. It also juggled more storylines than the others and did so with grace. I adored Rosalind and Evelyn as foils to each other, and the stepsisters cast as the two princes had me in giggles.
Cons- Like WECS, the characters were under pressure throughout the whole story. Because of that, although Henry and Rosalind had serious relationship issues, I had no way of knowing their relationship wasn't this rocky until the issues were resolved. I also could not suspend my disbelief on the cart-to-steam-carriage sequences of inventions, although that barely affected the story.
The Windy Side of Care:
Pros- This had the strongest beginning of the stories and was the only one to use first person, which it handled nicely. The author also did British-speak beautifully, in addition to multiple other languages! It had my favorite version of the fairy godmother.
Cons- The main conflict here is that Alisandra wants the throne and Auguste doesn't. The ideal solution would be for them to marry and her to rule, but both usually clever characters overlook this. This might've been resolved if, instead of pretending to drop it, Auguste deliberately broke the glass slipper, thus proving to the court, himself, his parents, and Alisandra that he is forceful enough to rule. I can't help but feel that either the main issue is not resolved by the end of the story or that there never was an issue to begin with, and the two main characters must complicated things for themselves.
A Cinder's Tale:
Pros- Are you sure this author isn't a science major? Elsa and her friends speak flawless scientific jargon, sounding completely knowledgeable and unapproachable while simultaneously inviting me to follow their explanations. I believe this is the best-written short story, so my cons might be exceedingly minute.
Cons- At the beginning of the story, Elsa, with no real prompting, remembers seeing her overseer with a mysterious case, looking furtive. I logically came to the conclusion that the overseer was planting a bomb somewhere on the station, although I assume that, in the future, such devices will likely be smaller than a cello. It was not until later, when the 'stepsisters' complained of the overseer excessively listening to cello music that it occurred to me that the mysterious instrument case-shaped object might be... an instrument case. (This also would've been a natural occasion for Elsa to remember seeing the case.) In other news, I thought some events needed a bit more dwelling on; namely, when Elsa believes she can't attend the ball, and then later when she must take command.
The Moon Master's Ball:
Pros- This book brought me the cool crispness of autumn on a disgusting summer day in North Carolina. I tend to dislike using this word in the context of literature, but this story was delicious. The tone reminded me greatly of the spooky opening music of the Cinderella ballet.
Cons- I have read in other reviews that people find the climax of this short story rushed. I am inclined to only partially agree with that; instead of rushed, I found it disconnected from the rest of the story. It is unclear why Mrs. Carlisle targets Tilly at the end (or even the initial time, resulting in Tilly's scar) when her goal has always been to snatch up the Moon Master. In this regard MMB did remind me of Diana Wynne Jones; some things, like the title Moon Master, are never explained and seem more fairytale because of that. On a smaller note, I felt that Tilly tried too hard to be a realistically-flawed character; instead of proceeding nature, she fretted about times when she felt jealousy or other small, common emotions.
OVERALL:
Cons first, so as not to leave an unpleasant taste in your mouth- The only thing I truly disliked in this collection was the order of the stories, which went by authors' last names. Because of this, BG and TWSOC, the two most similar stories in the collection, came one after the other. Ideally, I would've liked the order to be Broken Glass (the strongest beginning), What Eyes Can See (the most classical), The Windy Side of Care (the most amusing), The Moon Master's Ball (the most unique tone), and A Cinder's Tale (the strongest end). (Of course, BG does open up next year's contest, so the collection could easily finish as well.)
I only spotted one editing error: an ellipsis in MMB trailed over two lines. Not a big deal.
I found the repetitious names another small issue. Two separate Anastasias are referenced in different stories. Similarly, Lady Alisandra Carlisle from TWSOC felt greatly at odds with the despicable Mrs. Carlisle from MMB.
Pros- This is a gorgeous collection, and I cannot urge you strongly enough to read it. As someone who participated in the Five Glass Slippers contest but was not chosen, reading it soothed any lingering discontent I had over the matter. I cannot picture any versions of Cinderella that I would rather see in this collection, and I am so very proud of the marvelous authors and editor who collaborated to make this happen.
Now I have to get back to studying ancient slavery and the making of scrolls if my entry is ever going to be ready for next year's contest. Best of luck to other aspiring competitors! : )
June 5, 2014
I love fairy tale retellings and this was a delightful collection of five versions of Cinderella. Last year author Anne Elisabeth Stengl hosted a writing contest and the result was this book. Just this week the fairy tale for the next Rogglewood Press writing contest was announced. And if the quality of the Cinderella stories is anything to go by Five Enchanted Roses will be a fabulous collection as well.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown
My Reaction: How fun! I do like the twist that the stepsisters and mother are nice. Though I wish we could have heard more of Arella’s thoughts.
My Review: Elisabeth Brown does a great job giving us the classic story, but with a twist. Arella is painfully shy and does not want to marry the prince. I could almost imagine the story taking place in the settings of Disney’s movie but with a master editor rewinding and speculating ‘what if…’
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton
My Reaction: Loved the ending! Especially the epilogue. This quote stuck out: “It does take more than one dance to find your soul-mate.” I really like that this story and the previous one both emphasize that fact.
My Review: Emma Clifton mixed magic and steampunk together and came up with a story that has some of the harshness of the original Grimm fairy tales but also the characters to love and admire. I hope Emma continues writing stories set the land she created as I’m quite curious as to what happened to Ophelia and of course the epilogue is a perfect teaser for another fairy tale retelling.
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington
My Reaction:What a light hearted piece of fun and political intrigue! And a great “fairy” godfather!
My Review:Rachel Heffington did a great job completely reimagining Cinderella has a charming political schemer who is actually a disinherited princess. The dialogue was witty and very well written.
A Cinder's Tale byStephanie Ricker
My Reaction:Delightful. Nice to have a change from romance being the focus (though I’m sure a sequel would have plenty). Great riveting action and danger.
My Review:Stephanie Ricker put Cinderella in a space suit in a far corner of the universe and crafted a very exciting tale. I especially liked that she used the names Jac, Gus and Bruno for Elsa’s friends. Though I did keep picturing the dog when I read Bruno. His is a story I would love to read more of. The clones with their unique outfits were a great way to tie in the traditionally ill-dressed stepsisters.
The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Diane Thompson
My Reaction:Thrilling. Spooky. I do wish the word limit had been a bit longer since while the story is excellently told, the climax felt very rushed.
My Review:Clara Diane Thompson painted an eerie scene and kept the mystery front and center. The sudden appearance and disappearance of the Circus reminded me of the Twelve-Year Market from the Tales of Goldstone Wood. Much has been written about the impracticality of glass slippers – and whether they were mistranslated and should be fur slippers, but in this story they finally had a purpose and a point.
Review first posted on my blog: http://rinasreading.blogspot.com/2014... (With cover images for each story!)
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown
My Reaction: How fun! I do like the twist that the stepsisters and mother are nice. Though I wish we could have heard more of Arella’s thoughts.
My Review: Elisabeth Brown does a great job giving us the classic story, but with a twist. Arella is painfully shy and does not want to marry the prince. I could almost imagine the story taking place in the settings of Disney’s movie but with a master editor rewinding and speculating ‘what if…’
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton
My Reaction: Loved the ending! Especially the epilogue. This quote stuck out: “It does take more than one dance to find your soul-mate.” I really like that this story and the previous one both emphasize that fact.
My Review: Emma Clifton mixed magic and steampunk together and came up with a story that has some of the harshness of the original Grimm fairy tales but also the characters to love and admire. I hope Emma continues writing stories set the land she created as I’m quite curious as to what happened to Ophelia and of course the epilogue is a perfect teaser for another fairy tale retelling.
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington
My Reaction:What a light hearted piece of fun and political intrigue! And a great “fairy” godfather!
My Review:Rachel Heffington did a great job completely reimagining Cinderella has a charming political schemer who is actually a disinherited princess. The dialogue was witty and very well written.
A Cinder's Tale byStephanie Ricker
My Reaction:Delightful. Nice to have a change from romance being the focus (though I’m sure a sequel would have plenty). Great riveting action and danger.
My Review:Stephanie Ricker put Cinderella in a space suit in a far corner of the universe and crafted a very exciting tale. I especially liked that she used the names Jac, Gus and Bruno for Elsa’s friends. Though I did keep picturing the dog when I read Bruno. His is a story I would love to read more of. The clones with their unique outfits were a great way to tie in the traditionally ill-dressed stepsisters.
The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Diane Thompson
My Reaction:Thrilling. Spooky. I do wish the word limit had been a bit longer since while the story is excellently told, the climax felt very rushed.
My Review:Clara Diane Thompson painted an eerie scene and kept the mystery front and center. The sudden appearance and disappearance of the Circus reminded me of the Twelve-Year Market from the Tales of Goldstone Wood. Much has been written about the impracticality of glass slippers – and whether they were mistranslated and should be fur slippers, but in this story they finally had a purpose and a point.
Review first posted on my blog: http://rinasreading.blogspot.com/2014... (With cover images for each story!)
June 29, 2016
I've been waiting for this collection a long time!!! And what a wonderful fulfillment. Each author's writing takes you off on a tale so original and still so Cinderella. There is truly great talent displayed here. It is incredible to see each unique and beautiful voice tell the tale in their own special way, with their own special twist. Each story is a gem to be treasured, shining in the crown of their authorhood!
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown:
I enjoyed how the stepmother and stepsisters were not evil people in this story...just high-class women trying to cope with an extremely reclusive Cinderella. It was kind of hard to pinpoint who the main character of this story really was, but it was clear by the end. I also appreciated how she showed how shallow the Prince's love for Cinderella was in the original story and how he learned better.
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton:
This was so imaginative! It seemed every character was in conflict! I really had no idea who would end up with who at first. All the couples seemed to be quite unfit for each other! And may I just say...one character reminded me of Loki. Heheh. And the ending! Oh, I groaned at the cleverness of the ending.
On The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington:
This author's voice is amazing! The descriptions, the characters! Wow, it was so excellent. And the plot was quite clever. The Cinderella of this story is so snarky and self-confident; she cracked me up.
A Cinder's Tale by Stephanie Ricker:
One of the first thing that strikes you about this tale is that it is not a story in a world...this is a world that this story takes place in. This universe is big, and the author knows its workings like the back of her hand. The camaraderie of the characters is endearing and very real...this is great science fiction and I'm delighted to hear that the author is continuing exploring the world in her upcoming The Cendrillon Cycle!
The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Darling:
I love it. Let's start with that. The magical mood of the world, the sweet characters...and the Moon Master himself. Ah, he was definitely my favorite. The author creates a peaceful little village under a unknown shadow with a terrible prison disguised before their very eyes. The cleverness of how the Cinderella themes are woven in delightful and I hope the author will write much more in this enchanting world!
If you love Cinderella, fairy tales, fantasy, or just lovely stories, you must read this amazing collection from Rooglewood Press!
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown:
I enjoyed how the stepmother and stepsisters were not evil people in this story...just high-class women trying to cope with an extremely reclusive Cinderella. It was kind of hard to pinpoint who the main character of this story really was, but it was clear by the end. I also appreciated how she showed how shallow the Prince's love for Cinderella was in the original story and how he learned better.
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton:
This was so imaginative! It seemed every character was in conflict! I really had no idea who would end up with who at first. All the couples seemed to be quite unfit for each other! And may I just say...one character reminded me of Loki. Heheh. And the ending! Oh, I groaned at the cleverness of the ending.
On The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington:
This author's voice is amazing! The descriptions, the characters! Wow, it was so excellent. And the plot was quite clever. The Cinderella of this story is so snarky and self-confident; she cracked me up.
A Cinder's Tale by Stephanie Ricker:
One of the first thing that strikes you about this tale is that it is not a story in a world...this is a world that this story takes place in. This universe is big, and the author knows its workings like the back of her hand. The camaraderie of the characters is endearing and very real...this is great science fiction and I'm delighted to hear that the author is continuing exploring the world in her upcoming The Cendrillon Cycle!
The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Darling:
I love it. Let's start with that. The magical mood of the world, the sweet characters...and the Moon Master himself. Ah, he was definitely my favorite. The author creates a peaceful little village under a unknown shadow with a terrible prison disguised before their very eyes. The cleverness of how the Cinderella themes are woven in delightful and I hope the author will write much more in this enchanting world!
If you love Cinderella, fairy tales, fantasy, or just lovely stories, you must read this amazing collection from Rooglewood Press!
August 28, 2017
It's good that I didn't start with this Rooglewood Press anthology first, because I'd probably have been left with an impression that would've kept me from picking up their two other fairy tale retelling anthologies. The other two became personal all-time favourites, but this one unfortunately did not.
That Cinderella was never a tale I cared much about, or liked in particular, has a bit to do with my reaction, I should admit. In fact, the only times I've liked this tale was in artbook adaptations and always because of the art. But mostly it is that this anthology is very obviously a "beginner's run" and so is plagued by beginner's issues and has rough edges that weren't polished. From the five stories that won Rooglewood's contest and got published here, none was especially memorable to me, although three had settings and plot twists that were quite creative and deserve to be praised, and moreover there was one retelling that I did enjoy a lot.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE by Elisabeth Brown
4 stars
One of the most creative retellings . . . and the most infuriating. I wouldn't agree that the Cinderella figure in this story is "shy" as we're told over and over but that she suffers from social anxiety and social phobia. I'd have loved if that had been handled as what it was, a psychological issue, and not like a matter of the girl being reserved and timid, because she comes off as selfish and irresponsible. Oh, and the Prince Charming here is creepy! One of those men so full of themselves that they believe themselves the good Lord's gift to womankind. At least he does mature, realises his faults and improves his character, so there's that. And the stepsister! She's by far the best character, and this is definitely her story.
Besides the above detail, what made this the most enjoyable to me was that this retelling is the only one I've read that addresses the question "Why does the Prince fall for Cinderella so easily and on the first night?" The answer to that is given here in a scene that is a clear nod to Disney's motion picture (the one where the Prince is greeting each girl that arrives to the ball, boredly bowing to each and not even hiding yawns). I just loved this examination of superficiality and the inherent shallowness implied by the the original tale.
I should also note that this is one of the (very) few retellings in which there's no Wicked Stepmother to make Cindy's life miserable, and yet the story is no less good for that.
BROKEN GLASS by Emma Clifton
3 stars
"Side-splitting comedy," they said. "Will inspire her readers to many a smile," they said. Well, not quite. Yes, I do get this one was supposed to be funny. No, I do not lack a sense of humour.
The problem is, to put it shortly, that this is what all those who've watched silly comedies ("screwball comedies," I think they're called in the US) know: this kind of humour relies on and often depends entirely on physical comedy and body language. Think of it like this: Would The Three Stooges be as funny just in written form? Would Laurel & Hardy work so well without the visuals and quirks? Would we laugh at The Pink Panther films till our belly ached merely by reading the dialogue and not seeing Peter Sellers' comic talent on the screen?
Precisely my point. The dialogue in this story isn't as funny when shorn of the accompanying physical comedy, and the antics of the characters make them look childish and obnoxious instead.
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE by Rachel Heffington
2 stars
Predictable although cosy. To me it was too easy to forget, though, to the point I had to re-read the first page to refresh my memory of the plot for this review. I didn't see this story as very Cinderella-like, either, but more as a recovering-your-heritage story.
A CINDER'S TALE by Stephanie Ricker
3.5 stars
This one felt like an excerpt from a Sci-Fi novel rather than a short story, which was disappointing. I truly detest these sorts of stories that, instead of a proper wrap up, present the reader with a Want to read what happened next? Order now and read it in this other book! legend by the end of the excerpt/short story.
A pity, because this was definitely the most original setting of all, though it deviated very significantly from the traditional fairy tale plotline. And the heroine was lovely!
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL by Clara Diane Thompson
2 stars
Er . . . I wouldn't have called this a Cinderella retelling exactly, as this is by no means the theme or the metaphor that the tale holds in its core. This was more along the lines of the Cursed tale type themes that would fit better a tale like B&B or Sleeping Beauty. While curses and transformed characters aren't incompatible with Cinderella and can be included as a side plotline or a touch of originality, Cinderella is by no means a tale in which the heroine breaks curses or has curses on her broken thanks to True Love, sorry.
I'd recommend this anthology to fairy tale enthusiasts preferently, it's a bit niche in its appeal to potential readers, unlike the other two anthologies that would appeal also to readers that aren't much into retellings.
That Cinderella was never a tale I cared much about, or liked in particular, has a bit to do with my reaction, I should admit. In fact, the only times I've liked this tale was in artbook adaptations and always because of the art. But mostly it is that this anthology is very obviously a "beginner's run" and so is plagued by beginner's issues and has rough edges that weren't polished. From the five stories that won Rooglewood's contest and got published here, none was especially memorable to me, although three had settings and plot twists that were quite creative and deserve to be praised, and moreover there was one retelling that I did enjoy a lot.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE by Elisabeth Brown
4 stars
One of the most creative retellings . . . and the most infuriating. I wouldn't agree that the Cinderella figure in this story is "shy" as we're told over and over but that she suffers from social anxiety and social phobia. I'd have loved if that had been handled as what it was, a psychological issue, and not like a matter of the girl being reserved and timid, because she comes off as selfish and irresponsible. Oh, and the Prince Charming here is creepy! One of those men so full of themselves that they believe themselves the good Lord's gift to womankind. At least he does mature, realises his faults and improves his character, so there's that. And the stepsister! She's by far the best character, and this is definitely her story.
Besides the above detail, what made this the most enjoyable to me was that this retelling is the only one I've read that addresses the question "Why does the Prince fall for Cinderella so easily and on the first night?" The answer to that is given here in a scene that is a clear nod to Disney's motion picture (the one where the Prince is greeting each girl that arrives to the ball, boredly bowing to each and not even hiding yawns). I just loved this examination of superficiality and the inherent shallowness implied by the the original tale.
I should also note that this is one of the (very) few retellings in which there's no Wicked Stepmother to make Cindy's life miserable, and yet the story is no less good for that.
BROKEN GLASS by Emma Clifton
3 stars
"Side-splitting comedy," they said. "Will inspire her readers to many a smile," they said. Well, not quite. Yes, I do get this one was supposed to be funny. No, I do not lack a sense of humour.
The problem is, to put it shortly, that this is what all those who've watched silly comedies ("screwball comedies," I think they're called in the US) know: this kind of humour relies on and often depends entirely on physical comedy and body language. Think of it like this: Would The Three Stooges be as funny just in written form? Would Laurel & Hardy work so well without the visuals and quirks? Would we laugh at The Pink Panther films till our belly ached merely by reading the dialogue and not seeing Peter Sellers' comic talent on the screen?
Precisely my point. The dialogue in this story isn't as funny when shorn of the accompanying physical comedy, and the antics of the characters make them look childish and obnoxious instead.
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE by Rachel Heffington
2 stars
Predictable although cosy. To me it was too easy to forget, though, to the point I had to re-read the first page to refresh my memory of the plot for this review. I didn't see this story as very Cinderella-like, either, but more as a recovering-your-heritage story.
A CINDER'S TALE by Stephanie Ricker
3.5 stars
This one felt like an excerpt from a Sci-Fi novel rather than a short story, which was disappointing. I truly detest these sorts of stories that, instead of a proper wrap up, present the reader with a Want to read what happened next? Order now and read it in this other book! legend by the end of the excerpt/short story.
A pity, because this was definitely the most original setting of all, though it deviated very significantly from the traditional fairy tale plotline. And the heroine was lovely!
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL by Clara Diane Thompson
2 stars
Er . . . I wouldn't have called this a Cinderella retelling exactly, as this is by no means the theme or the metaphor that the tale holds in its core. This was more along the lines of the Cursed tale type themes that would fit better a tale like B&B or Sleeping Beauty. While curses and transformed characters aren't incompatible with Cinderella and can be included as a side plotline or a touch of originality, Cinderella is by no means a tale in which the heroine breaks curses or has curses on her broken thanks to True Love, sorry.
I'd recommend this anthology to fairy tale enthusiasts preferently, it's a bit niche in its appeal to potential readers, unlike the other two anthologies that would appeal also to readers that aren't much into retellings.
November 23, 2015
Goodness, what a passel of incredible authors! I was surprised and delighted again and again by their imagination, cleverness, humor, thoughtfulness, and skill. These are definitely not Cinderella retellings to be missed!
Five Glass Slippers is a collection of five stupendous retellings of the heartwarming fairytale of Cinderella, below is a synopsis of each.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown. The Prince falls for shy, secretive Arella, but she refuses to return his most ardent attentions. Prince Frederick won't give in, but neither will stubborn Arella. Meanwhile, stepsister Anastasia longs for a love of her own, and stepsister Drusilla calmly watches this all go on, even while holding secrets in her own heart.
An altogether adorable story... a perfect Cinderella tale with a lovely twist. What Eyes Can See kept me guessing and wondering; and always smiling! It was so gentle and sweet, I believe it makes my favorite of the whole collection! The storyline was engrossing, the characters splendid. I love how Elisabeth Brown made them grow. A sweet, heart-warming story, but with a firm realness and thoughtful lessons. Delightful!
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton. Rosalind is not going to marry the crown prince; who cares if she fits the slipper! She is in love with his younger brother Henry! Marius is not too fond of her either. But add in shadowy, middle brother Darcy, an ill mother, and stubborn father... and what's a young woman to do? Rosalind and Marius decide to take matters into their own hands... which isn't always the greatest idea, they find.
This was definitely meant to be the humorous tale. I quite enjoyed it, despite Rosalind's occasional snootiness, :) There was a rather unusual and fun array of characters, and their stories... whether bewildering, sweet, or wicked... drew me in. A witty, imaginative tale, it was fun to read! :) I really liked how Emma Clifton tied another fairytale into the end of this Cinderella story...
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington. Lady Alisandra knows that she is heir to the throne. But as for how to go about proving who she really is... she is rather at loss. With the help of a fellow maid and a “fairy godfather”, she is just gaining ground when she meets a dashing young man, who unintentionally causes quite a bit of trouble. Will she ever get the throne? Or are some things more important?
I really liked The Windy Side of Care, with its snappy wit, sweet moments, and life lessons. Rachel Heffington proportioned things pretty nicely, and I suddenly find myself eager to read more of her work, namely Fly Away Home. This story was a little reckless, in a good way, :) It made me smile humorously, sigh happily, and straighten in surprise. Rachel has a slightly different, but fun writing style. Though Alisandra tends to cause a lot of purposeful mischief, the story was quite sweet altogether. Mischievous but sweet, that's this tale!
A Cinder's Tale by Stephanie Ricker. Elsa is a cinder, mining the planet of Aschen. With her fellow miners, Bruno, Gus, and Jaq, plus a fay named Marriane, she does her daring space work, even while longing to go on adventures consisting of exploring more galaxies. Then a legendary ship arrives, along with the King of Stars, and Elsa's life is about to get more exciting than she ever thought!
Crazy, imaginative sci-fi isn't my usual pick of genre, but I have to admit, this tale caught me up and held me in for a wild ride! :) Cinders, coaches, and pumpkin patches, clones, cyborgs, and fays, it was an interesting story to be sure. Elsa was really a sweet girl; I very much enjoyed her character. Also, all the “Cinderella themes” Stephanie Ricker wove throughout were charming. —Especially Gus and Jaq, :) A crazy, but touching and heartfelt story ultimately.
The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Diane Thompson. In a quaint, little village, Tilly Higgins works faithfully for Lord Hollingberry. She never could have imagined all the magic swirling around, or that her benevolent employer would ask her to return to the place of her worst fears. But people need her help, a warden, and even a little rodent. The time has come to face her nightmare...
What a tale! This has to be the most thrilling story of the whole collection! Written flawlessly, The Moon Master's Ball kept me turning pages until I reached the end. Tilly was a lovely character; the suspense, the surprises, the spooky touch, kept me well entertained. Truly a delicious work, though it did have a darker theme. Unlike the previous stories of this collection, The Moon Master's Ball did have an evil villain. Evilness is definitely not my preference, but Clara Thompson did pretty well to keep it subdued to levels I am okay with. Though not the usual sweet Cinderella tale, this story came about beautifully, and I just have to say... it was captivatingly superb.
So there you have it, five, unique and wonderful Cinderella tales. Though there were some stories I didn't enjoy quite as much as others, I think Five Glass Slippers as a whole deserves five stars. Good job, ladies, for creating a memorable collection!
Five Glass Slippers is a collection of five stupendous retellings of the heartwarming fairytale of Cinderella, below is a synopsis of each.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown. The Prince falls for shy, secretive Arella, but she refuses to return his most ardent attentions. Prince Frederick won't give in, but neither will stubborn Arella. Meanwhile, stepsister Anastasia longs for a love of her own, and stepsister Drusilla calmly watches this all go on, even while holding secrets in her own heart.
An altogether adorable story... a perfect Cinderella tale with a lovely twist. What Eyes Can See kept me guessing and wondering; and always smiling! It was so gentle and sweet, I believe it makes my favorite of the whole collection! The storyline was engrossing, the characters splendid. I love how Elisabeth Brown made them grow. A sweet, heart-warming story, but with a firm realness and thoughtful lessons. Delightful!
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton. Rosalind is not going to marry the crown prince; who cares if she fits the slipper! She is in love with his younger brother Henry! Marius is not too fond of her either. But add in shadowy, middle brother Darcy, an ill mother, and stubborn father... and what's a young woman to do? Rosalind and Marius decide to take matters into their own hands... which isn't always the greatest idea, they find.
This was definitely meant to be the humorous tale. I quite enjoyed it, despite Rosalind's occasional snootiness, :) There was a rather unusual and fun array of characters, and their stories... whether bewildering, sweet, or wicked... drew me in. A witty, imaginative tale, it was fun to read! :) I really liked how Emma Clifton tied another fairytale into the end of this Cinderella story...
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington. Lady Alisandra knows that she is heir to the throne. But as for how to go about proving who she really is... she is rather at loss. With the help of a fellow maid and a “fairy godfather”, she is just gaining ground when she meets a dashing young man, who unintentionally causes quite a bit of trouble. Will she ever get the throne? Or are some things more important?
I really liked The Windy Side of Care, with its snappy wit, sweet moments, and life lessons. Rachel Heffington proportioned things pretty nicely, and I suddenly find myself eager to read more of her work, namely Fly Away Home. This story was a little reckless, in a good way, :) It made me smile humorously, sigh happily, and straighten in surprise. Rachel has a slightly different, but fun writing style. Though Alisandra tends to cause a lot of purposeful mischief, the story was quite sweet altogether. Mischievous but sweet, that's this tale!
A Cinder's Tale by Stephanie Ricker. Elsa is a cinder, mining the planet of Aschen. With her fellow miners, Bruno, Gus, and Jaq, plus a fay named Marriane, she does her daring space work, even while longing to go on adventures consisting of exploring more galaxies. Then a legendary ship arrives, along with the King of Stars, and Elsa's life is about to get more exciting than she ever thought!
Crazy, imaginative sci-fi isn't my usual pick of genre, but I have to admit, this tale caught me up and held me in for a wild ride! :) Cinders, coaches, and pumpkin patches, clones, cyborgs, and fays, it was an interesting story to be sure. Elsa was really a sweet girl; I very much enjoyed her character. Also, all the “Cinderella themes” Stephanie Ricker wove throughout were charming. —Especially Gus and Jaq, :) A crazy, but touching and heartfelt story ultimately.
The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Diane Thompson. In a quaint, little village, Tilly Higgins works faithfully for Lord Hollingberry. She never could have imagined all the magic swirling around, or that her benevolent employer would ask her to return to the place of her worst fears. But people need her help, a warden, and even a little rodent. The time has come to face her nightmare...
What a tale! This has to be the most thrilling story of the whole collection! Written flawlessly, The Moon Master's Ball kept me turning pages until I reached the end. Tilly was a lovely character; the suspense, the surprises, the spooky touch, kept me well entertained. Truly a delicious work, though it did have a darker theme. Unlike the previous stories of this collection, The Moon Master's Ball did have an evil villain. Evilness is definitely not my preference, but Clara Thompson did pretty well to keep it subdued to levels I am okay with. Though not the usual sweet Cinderella tale, this story came about beautifully, and I just have to say... it was captivatingly superb.
So there you have it, five, unique and wonderful Cinderella tales. Though there were some stories I didn't enjoy quite as much as others, I think Five Glass Slippers as a whole deserves five stars. Good job, ladies, for creating a memorable collection!
October 31, 2016
The short version: three terrible stories, one very good one, one pretty good one - averaging about 2.5 stars. Rounded up.
This is a collection of – in case it's not obvious – five stories inspired by or riffing on Cinderella. Usually a collection of stories, whether by one author or several, is hit or miss… unfortunately, this one is pretty much "miss". Well, no – four-fifths miss. I did really enjoy #4.
What Eyes Can See – Elisabeth Brown – "the romance of this collection". "delicate writing style". "She writes characters you cannot help but like…" – A painfully shy Cinderella, with absolutely lovely stepsisters and stepmother… Or is she painfully shy? The story's ending casts some doubt on that, for me. I've been painfully shy all my life, and I wanted to shake Arella. All the elements of the fairy tale were referenced, kind of, but … far from having to go to great efforts to get to the ball, this Cinderella has to practically be dragged, and once there has to practically be nailed to the ballroom floor. It wasn't awful. I just didn't like it. Two stars.
Broken Glass – Emma Clifton – "a side–splitting comedy" – I guess I don't have the genes for most fiction which is intended to be funny. Because if this was a side–splitting comedy, I … this was a side–splitting comedy? Someone borrowed Rosalind's glass slippers and lost one at the ball, and now because of that she is apparently being forced to marry the heir apparent – although she is actually being courted by his younger brother. She is strident and obnoxious; younger prince Henry is a milquetoast (to the extent that I don't understand why they even tolerate each other, much less want to marry; I give it three months), and I hated it so much I couldn't finish. And for some reason it's steampunk. Sort of. I'm not sure what that was all about. I did skip to the end and read the epilogue, and approved, but – too late. One star, DNF.
The Windy Side of Care – Rachel Heffington – What is it that makes people think "strident" is funny? Cinderella is a litigious serving maid trying to prove she's a noble. The writing was rather worse than that of the other two, and I hated everyone in the story, and again refused to finish. One star, DNF
A Cinder's Tale – Stephanie Ricker – Here, now. This is something else. This is a scifi retelling, in which our heroine is Elsa, a "cinder" – miner of cendrillon on a planet of boiling lava, an occupation which tends to leave its workers smudged with soot. Score. "Pumpkin patches, so named because the superheated lava puffed out in large bubbles" – score. Fairy, or fay, godmother – score. Wicked stepmother, or supervisor – score. It didn't take long to realize this was something else entirely.
The way that everything in the fairy tale – from pumpkin patches to Jaq and Gus to Perrault himself to the need to fit an article of clothing to the corresponding body part to identify the girl – was lovely. I'm glad I started this review while I was reading the book (although I then promptly forgot about it); I am glad to be reminded of this author. I'd like more from her. Five stars.
She gave him a shy smile. "I suppose I must seem like an odd bird out of air."
Jaq attempted to translate the mashed idioms. "Er, a fish out of water."
She cocked her head at him. "I don't think that's an accurate metaphor. A fish out of water would be dead."
We should be celebrating, not sitting around looking like someone kicked our frog."
"Dog," Jaq said absently.
"Close enough," Marraine said dismissively.
The Moon Master's Ball – Clara Diane Thompson – And then back to the not-so-great. It was confused, and confusing, and once again filled with unlikeable characters and muddled writing. By this point I think I can just say that all the positivity in my rating goes to "A Cinder's Tale", and leave it at that.
This is a collection of – in case it's not obvious – five stories inspired by or riffing on Cinderella. Usually a collection of stories, whether by one author or several, is hit or miss… unfortunately, this one is pretty much "miss". Well, no – four-fifths miss. I did really enjoy #4.
What Eyes Can See – Elisabeth Brown – "the romance of this collection". "delicate writing style". "She writes characters you cannot help but like…" – A painfully shy Cinderella, with absolutely lovely stepsisters and stepmother… Or is she painfully shy? The story's ending casts some doubt on that, for me. I've been painfully shy all my life, and I wanted to shake Arella. All the elements of the fairy tale were referenced, kind of, but … far from having to go to great efforts to get to the ball, this Cinderella has to practically be dragged, and once there has to practically be nailed to the ballroom floor. It wasn't awful. I just didn't like it. Two stars.
Broken Glass – Emma Clifton – "a side–splitting comedy" – I guess I don't have the genes for most fiction which is intended to be funny. Because if this was a side–splitting comedy, I … this was a side–splitting comedy? Someone borrowed Rosalind's glass slippers and lost one at the ball, and now because of that she is apparently being forced to marry the heir apparent – although she is actually being courted by his younger brother. She is strident and obnoxious; younger prince Henry is a milquetoast (to the extent that I don't understand why they even tolerate each other, much less want to marry; I give it three months), and I hated it so much I couldn't finish. And for some reason it's steampunk. Sort of. I'm not sure what that was all about. I did skip to the end and read the epilogue, and approved, but – too late. One star, DNF.
The Windy Side of Care – Rachel Heffington – What is it that makes people think "strident" is funny? Cinderella is a litigious serving maid trying to prove she's a noble. The writing was rather worse than that of the other two, and I hated everyone in the story, and again refused to finish. One star, DNF
A Cinder's Tale – Stephanie Ricker – Here, now. This is something else. This is a scifi retelling, in which our heroine is Elsa, a "cinder" – miner of cendrillon on a planet of boiling lava, an occupation which tends to leave its workers smudged with soot. Score. "Pumpkin patches, so named because the superheated lava puffed out in large bubbles" – score. Fairy, or fay, godmother – score. Wicked stepmother, or supervisor – score. It didn't take long to realize this was something else entirely.
The way that everything in the fairy tale – from pumpkin patches to Jaq and Gus to Perrault himself to the need to fit an article of clothing to the corresponding body part to identify the girl – was lovely. I'm glad I started this review while I was reading the book (although I then promptly forgot about it); I am glad to be reminded of this author. I'd like more from her. Five stars.
She gave him a shy smile. "I suppose I must seem like an odd bird out of air."
Jaq attempted to translate the mashed idioms. "Er, a fish out of water."
She cocked her head at him. "I don't think that's an accurate metaphor. A fish out of water would be dead."
We should be celebrating, not sitting around looking like someone kicked our frog."
"Dog," Jaq said absently.
"Close enough," Marraine said dismissively.
The Moon Master's Ball – Clara Diane Thompson – And then back to the not-so-great. It was confused, and confusing, and once again filled with unlikeable characters and muddled writing. By this point I think I can just say that all the positivity in my rating goes to "A Cinder's Tale", and leave it at that.
June 6, 2014
*This is a review of one of the five stories in Five Glass Slippers. The story reviewed is by Clara Diane Thompson, titled "The Moon Master's Ball."*
Oh, my ... what can I say about this story? It was full of whimsy, mystery, adventure, fantasy, and just a touch of romance. Is there anything more you could possibly want in a fairy tale or a fairy tale retelling?
The author has a lovely, sweetly simple voice and style, and a perfect sense of timing. There were enough things going on in the beginning half of the story that it kept me just confused enough to wonder ... how could these things possibly fit together? I don't know about you, but I love stories like that :) Seeing how each piece eventually falls into place is such a satisfying feeling!
The main character, Tilly, was well-drawn and believable. The setting was completely fresh and original - very unique while keeping some of the essential elements of the Cinderella story. The glass slipper itself is used in a most unlikely and shocking way! And the Moon Master himself ... how could I not love him?! Mysterious, tall, dark, and not-exactly-handsome-but-oh-so-charming ...? Yes, please ;)
The story is absolutely charming in every way, and there's no way you'll keep me away from the next work published by this talented young authoress!
I will be reading the other four stories in the volume as soon as time allows, and hope to post additional reviews for them as well!
(I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
Oh, my ... what can I say about this story? It was full of whimsy, mystery, adventure, fantasy, and just a touch of romance. Is there anything more you could possibly want in a fairy tale or a fairy tale retelling?
The author has a lovely, sweetly simple voice and style, and a perfect sense of timing. There were enough things going on in the beginning half of the story that it kept me just confused enough to wonder ... how could these things possibly fit together? I don't know about you, but I love stories like that :) Seeing how each piece eventually falls into place is such a satisfying feeling!
The main character, Tilly, was well-drawn and believable. The setting was completely fresh and original - very unique while keeping some of the essential elements of the Cinderella story. The glass slipper itself is used in a most unlikely and shocking way! And the Moon Master himself ... how could I not love him?! Mysterious, tall, dark, and not-exactly-handsome-but-oh-so-charming ...? Yes, please ;)
The story is absolutely charming in every way, and there's no way you'll keep me away from the next work published by this talented young authoress!
I will be reading the other four stories in the volume as soon as time allows, and hope to post additional reviews for them as well!
(I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
June 11, 2014
First things first: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. “What is this book?” you may ask. I’m glad you asked! It is Five Glass Slippers which is a collection of five retellings of the Cinderella story by Elisabeth Brown, Emma Clifton, Rachel Heffington, Stephanie Ricker, and Clara Diane Thompson.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown
“Drusilla watched the stepsisters exchange tense glances. The two were as different as light and shadow: Anastasia vivacious, sparkling—Arella quiet, retiring. Anastasia would never understand why Arella hated these functions, and Arella would never understand why Anastasia loved them. Drusilla, her personality falling somewhere between these polar opposites, had always acted as the buffer, doing her best to understand both of her little sisters and keep the peace.”
Arella doesn’t really enjoy balls or any other social events. In fact, she avoids them as much as possible. Why? Because she’s shy. She won’t even open up to her loving stepfamily – Duchess Germaine, Drulissa, and Anastasia. However, nothing she says can get her out of going to this ball – the one where Prince Frederick is supposed to choose a bride. Luckily, practical, well-mannered, kind, and gentle Drulissa is willing to help her through the night. But by the next morning, the shoe fits, Prince Frederick is besotted, and Arella is mortified by the prince’s attentions. Fortuitously, Drulissa has enough sense and decorum and is willing to help Arella through again, but how long until the prince gives up?
As I mentioned before, Arella is extremely shy. Honestly, she was the only character that didn’t seem three dimensional. Her desperation to get away from the incredibly persistent Prince Frederick leads her to drastic measures that seemed a little improbable but not entirely unbelievable. While there didn’t seem to be much character development in Arella, she quietly endears herself to the reader before the end.
Drulissa is a fantastic character! She has real doubts and insecurities, and that is exactly what makes her believable. For everyone else, she is a rock. Putting the needs of other before her own desires, she is very responsible. Her occasional inner dialogue (the story is told in the third person so we get to dip into her mind) is very believable and was one of my favorite parts of the story. Her growth over the course of the story is natural and smooth leaving a very nice taste in the reader’s mind.
Frederick is also a very authentic character. Sometimes I was a little annoyed with how slow he was to realize certain things, but as the story progressed he caught things a little faster. The “Aha!” moment for him was positively priceless – a classic “Oh, why didn’t I think of that before” scene. He grew and gained a lot of depth over the course of the story (by the way, it is amazing that Ms. Brown managed such a seamless, natural transition over the course of only 88 pages).
What Eyes Can See is a sweet retelling of the original Cinderella story with an interesting twist. Sometimes the story seemed to need a little more color, but the style was very consistent with pacing that seemed realistic. As I said before, the characters’ development was exceptional! While the overall storytelling is sweet, the believable, relatable characters definitely steal What Eyes Can See. I give this more classic retelling four out of five stars with a G rating.
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton
“Rosalind shoved past the attendants who tried to help her into the steam carriage. A very meek Henry clambered in across from her. She acknowledged him with a sniff and crossed her arms. Moments later the steam carriage sputtered to life and began bumbling down the road.”
It’s the morning after the royal ball, and fiery Rosalind is furious to find that the shoe of Crown Prince Marius’ “beloved” fits her. She doesn’t want Prince Marius! She already has his younger brother Prince Henry. But the shoe fits, and she is practically dragged to the palace. The king pronounces her and Marius engaged even though they clearly disdain each other. Marius says that Rosalind isn’t his beloved, but no one but Marius and Rosalind care that they might murder each other. They try to find a way out with the suspicious help of Marius’ shady other younger brother Darcy. Henry seems ready to just roll over and let Rosalind be forced to marry Marius without a fight. And where is Marius’ girl anyway?
Rosalind is a very spirited and high minded young woman. Headstrong, she takes charge and gets what she wants. What I like about her is that despite her fieriness, she can be vulnerable not one of those macho heroines who doesn’t need anyone. While she doesn’t change as much as I would have liked, her growth is satisfying by the end of the story.
Marius is also very spirited. He makes sure everyone knows what he wants – I mean come on, he’s the crown prince and that’s expected. Marius’ attitude about certain things change and is very believable. I wish I could say more about his character development, but I can’t say anything much without giving too much away.
As mentioned before, Henry’s the roll over, go-right-ahead-and-tread-on-me sort. But he changed so much over the course of the story! We find that he wasn’t weak – he was meek (they aren’t synonyms, meekness is power under control)! He adds so much to this story and is so much more than he originally seems.
Broken Glass is a fast-paced, funny, and surprising retelling! The dialogue is witty and the style entertaining. An interesting ending (which I sadly cannot divulge) leaves the reader wanting more stories from this author with these characters – or at the very least more with this style. I give this steampunk retelling four out of five stars with a PG rating.
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington
“I swear before the Court of Ashby, the birth certificates were switched!” I shouted. “How else have I, Lady Alisandra Carlisle, obtained the features of our royalty? If Auguste Blenheim is Ashbian to the core, can you explain why he is short and dark as coal smuts when every royal has been fair and tall since the Ancient Days?”
Alisandra Carlisle is certain that she is the daughter of the king and queen of Ashby. Her small problem is that her stepfamily has her doing servants’ chores and a prince currently sits on her throne… and she lacks funds and solid evidence of her claims – except for the fact that she looks like the girl version of the king. Being the scheming sort, Alis isn’t about to let such pesky details get in her way. After some careful planning and recruiting, she is ready to take the throne… but then she accidently meets Prince Auguste and things start to change. He isn’t as bad as she thought he would be. In fact, she rather likes him. Will Alis carry out her treasonous plan, or will she give up the throne and her dreams for a prince? Oh, and how did he end up as the prince anyhow?
Auguste is wonderfully hilarious. Truthfully, he doesn’t want to be king. All Auguste wants is to live a normal life – which, in my opinion, is understandable albeit selfish. I think I saw more growth in Auguste than in Alis. His outlook on the court is very entertaining, and he quickly had me rooting for him while his selfishness discreetly faded away.
Alis is self-assured and scheming. She is a very likeable heroine with a sharp mind. At first, I wasn’t exceptionally fond of her, but her sardonic yet endearing attitude quickly changed my mind. She starts out a little selfish, much like Auguste, but by the end she learns the meaning of self sacrifice.
The Windy Side of Care” is a witty, cute retelling. The pacing seemed a little too fast for Alis and Auguste to get from point A to point B after meeting each other, but with the other conflicts to tie up, I’m glad Ms. Heffington didn’t drag out their love story. Other than that, this story was fantastic! I thoroughly enjoyed it and therefore give it four out of five stars with a PG rating.
A Cinder’s Tale by Stephanie Ricker
“Through her viewscreen, Elsa eyed the patch of bubbling lava warily. Pumpkin patches, so named because the superheated lava puffed out in large bubbles, were notorious for blowing up without a moment’s notice. Any sane person would want to get as far away from them as possible.
Of course, any sane person wouldn’t sign up for a job as a cinder in the first place. The pay was good, but the life expectancy left something to be desired.”
Elsa is a cendrillion miner (aka: cinder) on a toxic planet called Aschen. It’s a dangerous job – you could easily die a number of different ways, but it’s good money and where Elsa’s friends Bruno, Jaq, and Gus are. Exciting as the job and life on the space station are, it’s nothing compared to the surprising news that the Sovereign - a space frigate captained by one of the greatest war heroes of their time, known as “the King” - is coming to dock at the station. And this particular captain loves ballroom dancing… and his lieutenant happens to by his very eligible son who is called “the Prince”… and the king is throwing a party for the station. And then an alien fay named Marainne shows up at the station working as a cinder right alongside Elsa and company. But what is a frigate like the Sovereign doing so far away from the fleet? And what is a captain like the King doing at a mining station? And what is a fay doing collecting cendrillion ore?
Elsa is a likable person. What I specifically like about Elsa is her work ethic – she is one of her stations top collectors, any hard worker I find instantly endearing. Also, Elsa’s dynamic with her friends is very interesting – she can be motherly, sisterly, or daughterly. In some ways, she seemed a little too good, but not to such a degree that she wasn’t believable or likeable. She is also one of those characters that didn’t need to develop and she didn’t. Normally, I would be frustrated by this, but it suited the story and the character.
A Cinder’s Tale is a unique, sci-fi retelling. Usually, I don’t really like spacey, sci-fi books because the descriptions are trying too hard, but I was pleasantly surprised by the tale that Ms. Ricker produced. The world (or space, I guess it would be called) that she depicts is vivid and tangible, but not too in-your-face extraterrestrial. There were no moments in this story when I was thinking, “Space! I get it! Space ships! I get it!” like I have when reading other sci-fi stories. Also, Ms. Ricker’s take on and imagining of the space frigate was refreshing and distinctive. The ending was open enough to allow for sequels which I will be on the lookout for and have heard are coming. I give this interstellar retelling four out of five stars with a PG rating.
The Moon Master’s Ball by Clara Diane Thompson
A gap between the cottages and Winslow Manor gave her a perfect view of Bromley Meadow—to most people, a place of magic and delight.
To Tilly, a place of fear.
Tilly is your average girl working as the maid in your average rich guy’s mansion in your average little village. Except she isn’t, he isn’t, and it isn’t. Once a year, Bromley Fair appears nearly out of nowhere in Bromley Meadow and stays to delight the townsfolk for a week before vanishing. But the last time Tilly went to Bromley Fair, she was scarred for life – literally. Now whenever the Fair comes around, Tilly makes certain to steer very clear of it. But then all sorts of strange things start happening – Tilly’s employer – Lord Hollingberry – hires a strange woman as the housekeeper, Lord Hollingberry starts acting strange himself, and the house begins to stink of magic. And then Bromley Fair arrives. Lord Hollingberry sends Tilly into the Fair with a mysterious message for the even more mysterious Moon Master and suddenly everything is more than it appears. Will Tilly be able to figure out the riddles and mysteries before it’s too late? And will she even survive the Moon Master’s ball?
Tilly is a very authentic character. From the moment the story begins, the reader empathizes strongly with her. We all have had those moments when we didn’t get something we think we deserved, and Tilly is no exception. She doesn’t whine or complain about the position that she didn’t get, but the reader feels her disappointment and frustration as she struggles to stamp out her feelings of jealousy and self-pity. Also, her fear of the fair is very rational and realistic. The reader feels bad for her and apprehensive with her as she is sent into Bromley Fair. This isn’t one of those stories where the reader thinks to himself “I have no doubt she’ll overcome this fear”. There were several times when I wondered if Tilly would make it, but that’s exactly what made her real.
The Moon Master’s Ball is an intriguing, suspenseful retelling. It was a little creepy, but not so much that I couldn’t sleep at night. Ms. Thompson did an excellent job with Till and keeping me guessing as to just what was going on for real. Another thing that I appreciated was that the element of romance was not overdone, cheesy, or unbelievable. Therefore, I give this thrilling retelling four out of five stars with a PG rating.
In conclusion, Five Glass Slippers is a very diverse collection of Cinderella stories. While it would be possible for me to pick a favorite solely because of my genre preferences, all five stories are interesting and engaging. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates retellings because the five – more the classic with a twist, the steampunk, the Shakespearian, sci-fi, and thriller – within are fantastic and each adds a new level to the Cinderella story. As a whole, I give Five Glass Slippers four out of five stars and a PG rating.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown
“Drusilla watched the stepsisters exchange tense glances. The two were as different as light and shadow: Anastasia vivacious, sparkling—Arella quiet, retiring. Anastasia would never understand why Arella hated these functions, and Arella would never understand why Anastasia loved them. Drusilla, her personality falling somewhere between these polar opposites, had always acted as the buffer, doing her best to understand both of her little sisters and keep the peace.”
Arella doesn’t really enjoy balls or any other social events. In fact, she avoids them as much as possible. Why? Because she’s shy. She won’t even open up to her loving stepfamily – Duchess Germaine, Drulissa, and Anastasia. However, nothing she says can get her out of going to this ball – the one where Prince Frederick is supposed to choose a bride. Luckily, practical, well-mannered, kind, and gentle Drulissa is willing to help her through the night. But by the next morning, the shoe fits, Prince Frederick is besotted, and Arella is mortified by the prince’s attentions. Fortuitously, Drulissa has enough sense and decorum and is willing to help Arella through again, but how long until the prince gives up?
As I mentioned before, Arella is extremely shy. Honestly, she was the only character that didn’t seem three dimensional. Her desperation to get away from the incredibly persistent Prince Frederick leads her to drastic measures that seemed a little improbable but not entirely unbelievable. While there didn’t seem to be much character development in Arella, she quietly endears herself to the reader before the end.
Drulissa is a fantastic character! She has real doubts and insecurities, and that is exactly what makes her believable. For everyone else, she is a rock. Putting the needs of other before her own desires, she is very responsible. Her occasional inner dialogue (the story is told in the third person so we get to dip into her mind) is very believable and was one of my favorite parts of the story. Her growth over the course of the story is natural and smooth leaving a very nice taste in the reader’s mind.
Frederick is also a very authentic character. Sometimes I was a little annoyed with how slow he was to realize certain things, but as the story progressed he caught things a little faster. The “Aha!” moment for him was positively priceless – a classic “Oh, why didn’t I think of that before” scene. He grew and gained a lot of depth over the course of the story (by the way, it is amazing that Ms. Brown managed such a seamless, natural transition over the course of only 88 pages).
What Eyes Can See is a sweet retelling of the original Cinderella story with an interesting twist. Sometimes the story seemed to need a little more color, but the style was very consistent with pacing that seemed realistic. As I said before, the characters’ development was exceptional! While the overall storytelling is sweet, the believable, relatable characters definitely steal What Eyes Can See. I give this more classic retelling four out of five stars with a G rating.
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton
“Rosalind shoved past the attendants who tried to help her into the steam carriage. A very meek Henry clambered in across from her. She acknowledged him with a sniff and crossed her arms. Moments later the steam carriage sputtered to life and began bumbling down the road.”
It’s the morning after the royal ball, and fiery Rosalind is furious to find that the shoe of Crown Prince Marius’ “beloved” fits her. She doesn’t want Prince Marius! She already has his younger brother Prince Henry. But the shoe fits, and she is practically dragged to the palace. The king pronounces her and Marius engaged even though they clearly disdain each other. Marius says that Rosalind isn’t his beloved, but no one but Marius and Rosalind care that they might murder each other. They try to find a way out with the suspicious help of Marius’ shady other younger brother Darcy. Henry seems ready to just roll over and let Rosalind be forced to marry Marius without a fight. And where is Marius’ girl anyway?
Rosalind is a very spirited and high minded young woman. Headstrong, she takes charge and gets what she wants. What I like about her is that despite her fieriness, she can be vulnerable not one of those macho heroines who doesn’t need anyone. While she doesn’t change as much as I would have liked, her growth is satisfying by the end of the story.
Marius is also very spirited. He makes sure everyone knows what he wants – I mean come on, he’s the crown prince and that’s expected. Marius’ attitude about certain things change and is very believable. I wish I could say more about his character development, but I can’t say anything much without giving too much away.
As mentioned before, Henry’s the roll over, go-right-ahead-and-tread-on-me sort. But he changed so much over the course of the story! We find that he wasn’t weak – he was meek (they aren’t synonyms, meekness is power under control)! He adds so much to this story and is so much more than he originally seems.
Broken Glass is a fast-paced, funny, and surprising retelling! The dialogue is witty and the style entertaining. An interesting ending (which I sadly cannot divulge) leaves the reader wanting more stories from this author with these characters – or at the very least more with this style. I give this steampunk retelling four out of five stars with a PG rating.
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington
“I swear before the Court of Ashby, the birth certificates were switched!” I shouted. “How else have I, Lady Alisandra Carlisle, obtained the features of our royalty? If Auguste Blenheim is Ashbian to the core, can you explain why he is short and dark as coal smuts when every royal has been fair and tall since the Ancient Days?”
Alisandra Carlisle is certain that she is the daughter of the king and queen of Ashby. Her small problem is that her stepfamily has her doing servants’ chores and a prince currently sits on her throne… and she lacks funds and solid evidence of her claims – except for the fact that she looks like the girl version of the king. Being the scheming sort, Alis isn’t about to let such pesky details get in her way. After some careful planning and recruiting, she is ready to take the throne… but then she accidently meets Prince Auguste and things start to change. He isn’t as bad as she thought he would be. In fact, she rather likes him. Will Alis carry out her treasonous plan, or will she give up the throne and her dreams for a prince? Oh, and how did he end up as the prince anyhow?
Auguste is wonderfully hilarious. Truthfully, he doesn’t want to be king. All Auguste wants is to live a normal life – which, in my opinion, is understandable albeit selfish. I think I saw more growth in Auguste than in Alis. His outlook on the court is very entertaining, and he quickly had me rooting for him while his selfishness discreetly faded away.
Alis is self-assured and scheming. She is a very likeable heroine with a sharp mind. At first, I wasn’t exceptionally fond of her, but her sardonic yet endearing attitude quickly changed my mind. She starts out a little selfish, much like Auguste, but by the end she learns the meaning of self sacrifice.
The Windy Side of Care” is a witty, cute retelling. The pacing seemed a little too fast for Alis and Auguste to get from point A to point B after meeting each other, but with the other conflicts to tie up, I’m glad Ms. Heffington didn’t drag out their love story. Other than that, this story was fantastic! I thoroughly enjoyed it and therefore give it four out of five stars with a PG rating.
A Cinder’s Tale by Stephanie Ricker
“Through her viewscreen, Elsa eyed the patch of bubbling lava warily. Pumpkin patches, so named because the superheated lava puffed out in large bubbles, were notorious for blowing up without a moment’s notice. Any sane person would want to get as far away from them as possible.
Of course, any sane person wouldn’t sign up for a job as a cinder in the first place. The pay was good, but the life expectancy left something to be desired.”
Elsa is a cendrillion miner (aka: cinder) on a toxic planet called Aschen. It’s a dangerous job – you could easily die a number of different ways, but it’s good money and where Elsa’s friends Bruno, Jaq, and Gus are. Exciting as the job and life on the space station are, it’s nothing compared to the surprising news that the Sovereign - a space frigate captained by one of the greatest war heroes of their time, known as “the King” - is coming to dock at the station. And this particular captain loves ballroom dancing… and his lieutenant happens to by his very eligible son who is called “the Prince”… and the king is throwing a party for the station. And then an alien fay named Marainne shows up at the station working as a cinder right alongside Elsa and company. But what is a frigate like the Sovereign doing so far away from the fleet? And what is a captain like the King doing at a mining station? And what is a fay doing collecting cendrillion ore?
Elsa is a likable person. What I specifically like about Elsa is her work ethic – she is one of her stations top collectors, any hard worker I find instantly endearing. Also, Elsa’s dynamic with her friends is very interesting – she can be motherly, sisterly, or daughterly. In some ways, she seemed a little too good, but not to such a degree that she wasn’t believable or likeable. She is also one of those characters that didn’t need to develop and she didn’t. Normally, I would be frustrated by this, but it suited the story and the character.
A Cinder’s Tale is a unique, sci-fi retelling. Usually, I don’t really like spacey, sci-fi books because the descriptions are trying too hard, but I was pleasantly surprised by the tale that Ms. Ricker produced. The world (or space, I guess it would be called) that she depicts is vivid and tangible, but not too in-your-face extraterrestrial. There were no moments in this story when I was thinking, “Space! I get it! Space ships! I get it!” like I have when reading other sci-fi stories. Also, Ms. Ricker’s take on and imagining of the space frigate was refreshing and distinctive. The ending was open enough to allow for sequels which I will be on the lookout for and have heard are coming. I give this interstellar retelling four out of five stars with a PG rating.
The Moon Master’s Ball by Clara Diane Thompson
A gap between the cottages and Winslow Manor gave her a perfect view of Bromley Meadow—to most people, a place of magic and delight.
To Tilly, a place of fear.
Tilly is your average girl working as the maid in your average rich guy’s mansion in your average little village. Except she isn’t, he isn’t, and it isn’t. Once a year, Bromley Fair appears nearly out of nowhere in Bromley Meadow and stays to delight the townsfolk for a week before vanishing. But the last time Tilly went to Bromley Fair, she was scarred for life – literally. Now whenever the Fair comes around, Tilly makes certain to steer very clear of it. But then all sorts of strange things start happening – Tilly’s employer – Lord Hollingberry – hires a strange woman as the housekeeper, Lord Hollingberry starts acting strange himself, and the house begins to stink of magic. And then Bromley Fair arrives. Lord Hollingberry sends Tilly into the Fair with a mysterious message for the even more mysterious Moon Master and suddenly everything is more than it appears. Will Tilly be able to figure out the riddles and mysteries before it’s too late? And will she even survive the Moon Master’s ball?
Tilly is a very authentic character. From the moment the story begins, the reader empathizes strongly with her. We all have had those moments when we didn’t get something we think we deserved, and Tilly is no exception. She doesn’t whine or complain about the position that she didn’t get, but the reader feels her disappointment and frustration as she struggles to stamp out her feelings of jealousy and self-pity. Also, her fear of the fair is very rational and realistic. The reader feels bad for her and apprehensive with her as she is sent into Bromley Fair. This isn’t one of those stories where the reader thinks to himself “I have no doubt she’ll overcome this fear”. There were several times when I wondered if Tilly would make it, but that’s exactly what made her real.
The Moon Master’s Ball is an intriguing, suspenseful retelling. It was a little creepy, but not so much that I couldn’t sleep at night. Ms. Thompson did an excellent job with Till and keeping me guessing as to just what was going on for real. Another thing that I appreciated was that the element of romance was not overdone, cheesy, or unbelievable. Therefore, I give this thrilling retelling four out of five stars with a PG rating.
In conclusion, Five Glass Slippers is a very diverse collection of Cinderella stories. While it would be possible for me to pick a favorite solely because of my genre preferences, all five stories are interesting and engaging. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates retellings because the five – more the classic with a twist, the steampunk, the Shakespearian, sci-fi, and thriller – within are fantastic and each adds a new level to the Cinderella story. As a whole, I give Five Glass Slippers four out of five stars and a PG rating.
September 25, 2015
[Review originally posted on Musings of an Elf]
Five Glass Slippers is Rooglewood Press's first fairytale collection, and a beautiful one at that! A couple years ago they set up a contest for anyone to enter a 5k to 20k word Cinderella retelling and chose five of the many entries to put into this one collection. The five girls chosen were picked with good reason, each of the stories taking the original tale of Cinderella and turning it into something new and different and wonderful.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown
Rating: 3 Stars
This was a sweet little story to start the collection out with, though it had a few flaws that kept me somewhat detached. The way the omniscient POV was handled threw me off some, and I felt the writing style a little bland. And though the characters were sweet, I never got as attached to them as I would have liked. Except for Drusilla. I liked her from nearly her first appearance, and my love only grew stronger. What I really loved about this story was how it kept practically all the Cinderella themes in clever ways, but then flipped the whole familiar tale completely on its head. Evil stepmother and stepsisters? Nope. How about a sweet stepfamily and a Cinderella who really doesn’t want to go to the ball? Oh, and also let’s give one of the stepsisters the main spotlight instead of Cinderella. Interesting concept, am I right? Despite some of its misgivings, this story is worth a read. It’s a very intriguing take on our beloved Cinderella and the surprise ending was absolutely delicious. Trust me. Or read it for yourself and see. *winks*
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton
Rating: 5 Stars
Oooh, this story! It had me hooked right from the beginning and kept me turning pages so quickly I probably gave myself whiplash. Emma Clifton has a gift for dry humor and wit. By the time I got to the end, my cheeks were sore due to so much grinning and giggling. This had such a colorful, lively cast of characters I honestly forgot I was even reading about fictional people. Each and every one popped off the pages in their own unique and loveable way, even the ones that probably shouldn’t be described as loveable. I adored all of them. The tale is completely worth reading for the characters alone. But then you throw in a steampunk world (um, yes please!), some insane schemes involving exploding carriages and an inept fairy godmother, and completely original twists on the Cinderella story (it’s not everyday that the glass slipper fits on the wrong girl!), you’ve got yourself a recipe for a fantastic, humorous, exciting tale. I don’t know how Emma Clifton fit so much into one novella. There wasn’t a single thing I disliked about this story—from the quick, easy writing to the lively characters and crazy schemes. It was one of the most fun tales I’ve ever read.
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I have mixed feelings on this one. I think the problem is that it was a phenomenal story, just not my thing. Rachel Heffington has an absolutely amazing talent for rich writing. It’s like if you put something such as Charles Dickens or Jane Austen with a touch of modern flare together you’d have Miss Heffington’s style. Sadly, my wee brain has never mixed well with such writing. I much more enjoy fast-paced sentences (there’s a reason YA is my favorite genre). So, as a result, I didn’t mix well with this tale. I also found the characters a little too pretentious. One of my favorite things about the Cinderella story is Cinderella herself. I love her quiet spirit, so different from most heroines we see these days. Alis from The Windy Side of Care has anything but a quiet spirit. The wit and bantering had me chuckling, but I just couldn’t quite click with the characters. Though by the ending, I had become much more fond of them, especially Prince Auguste. Despite all this, I actually immensely enjoyed the plot itself. Rachel Heffington took the Cinderella themes and absolutely made them her own. Instead of simply dreaming of living in a castle, our heroine is quite certain she’s rightfully the queen and takes it upon herself to take the throne, no matter the complications. Quite an interesting take on the original tale! And the ending was fabulous and made it all worth it. Overall, this story wasn’t exactly my type of thing to read, but Rachel Heffington’s talent really is exceptional, and I think a lot of people will completely love this tale.
A Cinder’s Tale by Stephanie Ricker
Rating: 4 Stars
This was actually a fantastic tale without a thing wrong with it. Unfortunately, I’m not much of a sci-fi person, so, as with The Windy Side of Care, I didn’t mix greatly with it. I’ve just never enjoyed stories set in space and spaceships, and that’s exactly what this setting is. I found myself having to reread through a lot of paragraphs to get a grasp on the space-y talk. But that was no fault of Miss Ricker’s! Her writing was smooth and beautiful and extremely clever, I’ve just never exposed myself to a lot of sci-fi stories and it takes my brain a bit of time to settle into it. BUT I still very much enjoyed this story. This definitely has to be one of the most unique Cinderella retellings I’ve ever seen. This story did indeed have a ball, but it also had space battles, clones, a cyborg, an alien in place of the fairy godmother, and all manner of witty dialogue. Action and excitement abounded! What really endeared me to this story though was the characters and their relationships. Our heroine, Elsa, and her fun-loving crew made every page pop with life and fun. *I* wanted to be part of their happy little crew. Their friendship felt so real and lively and sweet. It was absolutely worth the read just to feel a part of the little cinder crew alone. So even if you’re not a sci-fi person like me, give this one a try. And if you do like sci-fi, you’re going to love this story!
The Moon Master’s Ball by Clara Diane Thompson
Rating: 5 Stars
One word came to me when I finished this tale: Wow. While reading it I kept wishing it was a whole novel, because the closer I got to the end the more I realized I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to be swept into Tilly’s eerie world for far longer than just within a novella. This story was definitely the darkest of the five, but I think that’s why I loved it the most. The dark beauty of it thrust me into a world of a mysterious circus, chilly streets, dangerous creatures, and a timid girl trying to get away from a past trauma but being shoved closer to it every day. The true mystery starts when our heroine, Tilly, is sent to the strange circus with a letter in her pocket addressed to the Moon Master. From there strange, magical things occur and the suspense rises with each page. The simple but beautiful writing style glided through the story and took me on an otherworldly, heart-racing journey. Each character endeared themselves to me, the Moon Master himself especially. If I had one complaint it’d be that there wasn’t nearly enough of him, simply because he was amazing. But they all were, the whole story was. Really, I can’t complain about anything. I adored this eerily beautiful story from the first sentence to the last. It’s one of those stories that struck deep inside me and will cling there forever. The perfect end to a splendid collection of Cinderella stories.
All in all, I enjoyed each story in their own special way. My favorite thing about retellings is seeing all the different twists that can be done from one little story. There were so many clever takes on the original Cinderella tale, I’m in awe at the brilliant minds that put these together. If you’re a fan of Cinderella or just fairytales in general I highly recommend this collection. Each story was so different but so intriguing, swirling together to make one memorable collection.
All together I give the collection a 4 stars.
Five Glass Slippers is Rooglewood Press's first fairytale collection, and a beautiful one at that! A couple years ago they set up a contest for anyone to enter a 5k to 20k word Cinderella retelling and chose five of the many entries to put into this one collection. The five girls chosen were picked with good reason, each of the stories taking the original tale of Cinderella and turning it into something new and different and wonderful.
What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown
Rating: 3 Stars
This was a sweet little story to start the collection out with, though it had a few flaws that kept me somewhat detached. The way the omniscient POV was handled threw me off some, and I felt the writing style a little bland. And though the characters were sweet, I never got as attached to them as I would have liked. Except for Drusilla. I liked her from nearly her first appearance, and my love only grew stronger. What I really loved about this story was how it kept practically all the Cinderella themes in clever ways, but then flipped the whole familiar tale completely on its head. Evil stepmother and stepsisters? Nope. How about a sweet stepfamily and a Cinderella who really doesn’t want to go to the ball? Oh, and also let’s give one of the stepsisters the main spotlight instead of Cinderella. Interesting concept, am I right? Despite some of its misgivings, this story is worth a read. It’s a very intriguing take on our beloved Cinderella and the surprise ending was absolutely delicious. Trust me. Or read it for yourself and see. *winks*
Broken Glass by Emma Clifton
Rating: 5 Stars
Oooh, this story! It had me hooked right from the beginning and kept me turning pages so quickly I probably gave myself whiplash. Emma Clifton has a gift for dry humor and wit. By the time I got to the end, my cheeks were sore due to so much grinning and giggling. This had such a colorful, lively cast of characters I honestly forgot I was even reading about fictional people. Each and every one popped off the pages in their own unique and loveable way, even the ones that probably shouldn’t be described as loveable. I adored all of them. The tale is completely worth reading for the characters alone. But then you throw in a steampunk world (um, yes please!), some insane schemes involving exploding carriages and an inept fairy godmother, and completely original twists on the Cinderella story (it’s not everyday that the glass slipper fits on the wrong girl!), you’ve got yourself a recipe for a fantastic, humorous, exciting tale. I don’t know how Emma Clifton fit so much into one novella. There wasn’t a single thing I disliked about this story—from the quick, easy writing to the lively characters and crazy schemes. It was one of the most fun tales I’ve ever read.
The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington
Rating: 3.5 Stars
I have mixed feelings on this one. I think the problem is that it was a phenomenal story, just not my thing. Rachel Heffington has an absolutely amazing talent for rich writing. It’s like if you put something such as Charles Dickens or Jane Austen with a touch of modern flare together you’d have Miss Heffington’s style. Sadly, my wee brain has never mixed well with such writing. I much more enjoy fast-paced sentences (there’s a reason YA is my favorite genre). So, as a result, I didn’t mix well with this tale. I also found the characters a little too pretentious. One of my favorite things about the Cinderella story is Cinderella herself. I love her quiet spirit, so different from most heroines we see these days. Alis from The Windy Side of Care has anything but a quiet spirit. The wit and bantering had me chuckling, but I just couldn’t quite click with the characters. Though by the ending, I had become much more fond of them, especially Prince Auguste. Despite all this, I actually immensely enjoyed the plot itself. Rachel Heffington took the Cinderella themes and absolutely made them her own. Instead of simply dreaming of living in a castle, our heroine is quite certain she’s rightfully the queen and takes it upon herself to take the throne, no matter the complications. Quite an interesting take on the original tale! And the ending was fabulous and made it all worth it. Overall, this story wasn’t exactly my type of thing to read, but Rachel Heffington’s talent really is exceptional, and I think a lot of people will completely love this tale.
A Cinder’s Tale by Stephanie Ricker
Rating: 4 Stars
This was actually a fantastic tale without a thing wrong with it. Unfortunately, I’m not much of a sci-fi person, so, as with The Windy Side of Care, I didn’t mix greatly with it. I’ve just never enjoyed stories set in space and spaceships, and that’s exactly what this setting is. I found myself having to reread through a lot of paragraphs to get a grasp on the space-y talk. But that was no fault of Miss Ricker’s! Her writing was smooth and beautiful and extremely clever, I’ve just never exposed myself to a lot of sci-fi stories and it takes my brain a bit of time to settle into it. BUT I still very much enjoyed this story. This definitely has to be one of the most unique Cinderella retellings I’ve ever seen. This story did indeed have a ball, but it also had space battles, clones, a cyborg, an alien in place of the fairy godmother, and all manner of witty dialogue. Action and excitement abounded! What really endeared me to this story though was the characters and their relationships. Our heroine, Elsa, and her fun-loving crew made every page pop with life and fun. *I* wanted to be part of their happy little crew. Their friendship felt so real and lively and sweet. It was absolutely worth the read just to feel a part of the little cinder crew alone. So even if you’re not a sci-fi person like me, give this one a try. And if you do like sci-fi, you’re going to love this story!
The Moon Master’s Ball by Clara Diane Thompson
Rating: 5 Stars
One word came to me when I finished this tale: Wow. While reading it I kept wishing it was a whole novel, because the closer I got to the end the more I realized I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to be swept into Tilly’s eerie world for far longer than just within a novella. This story was definitely the darkest of the five, but I think that’s why I loved it the most. The dark beauty of it thrust me into a world of a mysterious circus, chilly streets, dangerous creatures, and a timid girl trying to get away from a past trauma but being shoved closer to it every day. The true mystery starts when our heroine, Tilly, is sent to the strange circus with a letter in her pocket addressed to the Moon Master. From there strange, magical things occur and the suspense rises with each page. The simple but beautiful writing style glided through the story and took me on an otherworldly, heart-racing journey. Each character endeared themselves to me, the Moon Master himself especially. If I had one complaint it’d be that there wasn’t nearly enough of him, simply because he was amazing. But they all were, the whole story was. Really, I can’t complain about anything. I adored this eerily beautiful story from the first sentence to the last. It’s one of those stories that struck deep inside me and will cling there forever. The perfect end to a splendid collection of Cinderella stories.
All in all, I enjoyed each story in their own special way. My favorite thing about retellings is seeing all the different twists that can be done from one little story. There were so many clever takes on the original Cinderella tale, I’m in awe at the brilliant minds that put these together. If you’re a fan of Cinderella or just fairytales in general I highly recommend this collection. Each story was so different but so intriguing, swirling together to make one memorable collection.
All together I give the collection a 4 stars.
February 1, 2016
"Five Glass Slippers" is a collection of five Cinderella retellings, put together via the first annual creative writing contest hosted by Rooglewood Press.
I'll start off my review by saying, I loved this collection as a whole! Each story is so creative and so different, yet they are all tied together with themes from the Cinderella fairytale. I truly enjoyed discovering what each new retelling had to offer.
Now for my thoughts on each individual story:
"What Eyes Can See" by Elizabeth Brown was the first retelling in the collection. I'll admit, I wasn't sure I would like this retelling when I first started it. It's told in the style of historical fiction, and there was no magic, no fairy godmother, and the stepmother and step sisters are not even evil. In fact, the journey from the beginning of the story to the ball happens rather quickly and uneventfully. However, I should not have been so quick to judge. Turns out, the Cinderella in this story is so shy, she didn't *want* to go to the ball. But she is made to go anyway, and when the prince, whom Cinderella doesn't even like, falls madly in love with her based on her beauty alone, and begins to relentlessly pursue her, no matter how much she ignores him, that's when things get interesting. I enjoyed how even though this story was probably the simplest story in the collection, it was not predictable, and I found the ending especially satisfying.
Next came "Broken Glass" by Emma Clifton. Oh my. I don't think I can even begin to capture, in a single review, how fun and funny this retelling was! To paraphrase the book's synopsis, "What happens when the slipper fits...on the wrong girl?" Hilarity and drama, that's what happens. This retelling kept me guessing right up till the end about how things would work out. So many twist, turns and surprises! I think I can easily say, this was my favorite story of the collection, and I have already bought and plan to read the sequel "Corroded Thorns". Alas, the sequel was only available in e-book form, and the only e-reader I have is on my phone, so it will probably be slow reading when I get around to it (small screen = slow reading), but I'm sure I'll still enjoy it.
The third retelling was Rachel Heffington's story "The Windy Side of Care", told in first-person perspective by "Cinderella" herself. This retelling was another fun one. The characters are colorful and well-developed, and "Cinderella" was a strong and determined young woman trying to reclaim her throne from an impostor. My only complaint is that, I think this story would have benefited from being able to be longer. Don't get me wrong, it is still a great story and I enjoyed it very much, but it would have been nice, IMHO, if certain plot elements could have been allowed to develop a little more slowly than they did. Totally just my opinion, though.
Next there was the sci-fi retelling, "A Cinder's Tale" by Stephanie Ricker. I don't read a lot of sci-fi, and it's not a genre one typically thinks of when one thinks of fairy tale retellings, so it actually surprised me that I liked this story as much as I did. Was it my favorite? No. But the concept of Cinderella being a cendrillon miner working from a space station orbiting what is basically a lava planet was highly unique, and I thought what Ms. Ricker did to tie the Cinderella elements into the story was very creative. I enjoyed it enough that when I saw in the back of the book that Stephanie Ricker has written other novellas with the characters from this story, I found myself suddenly curious, and I may end up reading those stories as well someday.
The final retelling of the collection was "The Moon Master's Ball" by Clara Diane Thompson. While it did not end up being my favorite story, it was definitely the retelling I was the most curious about. I mean, come on. Cinderella has to deliver a message for a prisoner trapped in a fairy circus that appears and disappears every year? How cool is that! And indeed it was an excellent story, though probably the one that deviated the most from the original narrative. But similarly to "The Windy Side of Care" I wish this one had been just a teeny, tiny bit longer for the sake of developing some of the story elements a little more. Particularly towards the end, when "Cinderella" found out what was really going on, things seemed to move along very quickly till it reached the end of the story. But still, it was an excellent story. Very creative, very well written (as were the other stories in the collection) and I would love to see more from this author in the future.
General conclusion: If you love fairy tales, or just really entertaining, sweet, exciting, and well written stories, I would recommend the "Five Glass Slippers" collection to you.
I'll start off my review by saying, I loved this collection as a whole! Each story is so creative and so different, yet they are all tied together with themes from the Cinderella fairytale. I truly enjoyed discovering what each new retelling had to offer.
Now for my thoughts on each individual story:
"What Eyes Can See" by Elizabeth Brown was the first retelling in the collection. I'll admit, I wasn't sure I would like this retelling when I first started it. It's told in the style of historical fiction, and there was no magic, no fairy godmother, and the stepmother and step sisters are not even evil. In fact, the journey from the beginning of the story to the ball happens rather quickly and uneventfully. However, I should not have been so quick to judge. Turns out, the Cinderella in this story is so shy, she didn't *want* to go to the ball. But she is made to go anyway, and when the prince, whom Cinderella doesn't even like, falls madly in love with her based on her beauty alone, and begins to relentlessly pursue her, no matter how much she ignores him, that's when things get interesting. I enjoyed how even though this story was probably the simplest story in the collection, it was not predictable, and I found the ending especially satisfying.
Next came "Broken Glass" by Emma Clifton. Oh my. I don't think I can even begin to capture, in a single review, how fun and funny this retelling was! To paraphrase the book's synopsis, "What happens when the slipper fits...on the wrong girl?" Hilarity and drama, that's what happens. This retelling kept me guessing right up till the end about how things would work out. So many twist, turns and surprises! I think I can easily say, this was my favorite story of the collection, and I have already bought and plan to read the sequel "Corroded Thorns". Alas, the sequel was only available in e-book form, and the only e-reader I have is on my phone, so it will probably be slow reading when I get around to it (small screen = slow reading), but I'm sure I'll still enjoy it.
The third retelling was Rachel Heffington's story "The Windy Side of Care", told in first-person perspective by "Cinderella" herself. This retelling was another fun one. The characters are colorful and well-developed, and "Cinderella" was a strong and determined young woman trying to reclaim her throne from an impostor. My only complaint is that, I think this story would have benefited from being able to be longer. Don't get me wrong, it is still a great story and I enjoyed it very much, but it would have been nice, IMHO, if certain plot elements could have been allowed to develop a little more slowly than they did. Totally just my opinion, though.
Next there was the sci-fi retelling, "A Cinder's Tale" by Stephanie Ricker. I don't read a lot of sci-fi, and it's not a genre one typically thinks of when one thinks of fairy tale retellings, so it actually surprised me that I liked this story as much as I did. Was it my favorite? No. But the concept of Cinderella being a cendrillon miner working from a space station orbiting what is basically a lava planet was highly unique, and I thought what Ms. Ricker did to tie the Cinderella elements into the story was very creative. I enjoyed it enough that when I saw in the back of the book that Stephanie Ricker has written other novellas with the characters from this story, I found myself suddenly curious, and I may end up reading those stories as well someday.
The final retelling of the collection was "The Moon Master's Ball" by Clara Diane Thompson. While it did not end up being my favorite story, it was definitely the retelling I was the most curious about. I mean, come on. Cinderella has to deliver a message for a prisoner trapped in a fairy circus that appears and disappears every year? How cool is that! And indeed it was an excellent story, though probably the one that deviated the most from the original narrative. But similarly to "The Windy Side of Care" I wish this one had been just a teeny, tiny bit longer for the sake of developing some of the story elements a little more. Particularly towards the end, when "Cinderella" found out what was really going on, things seemed to move along very quickly till it reached the end of the story. But still, it was an excellent story. Very creative, very well written (as were the other stories in the collection) and I would love to see more from this author in the future.
General conclusion: If you love fairy tales, or just really entertaining, sweet, exciting, and well written stories, I would recommend the "Five Glass Slippers" collection to you.
June 11, 2014
Five Glass Slippers is a collection of Cinderella-esque stories written by young authors from all over the place - several of these ladies have never before been published! I received an e-copy of the book in exchange for my honest review - so here we go :)
Despite my excitement, I was a little hesitant about reading some of these stories, simply because I knew all the submissions had been for a contest and (as I mentioned) some of the authors had never been published. However, by the time I finished, I was thoroughly impressed and realized my fears had all been for nothing. The stories are charming, unique, and well crafted. Several had plot twists I didn't expect and left me feeling quite comforted with the various happy-endings. Let me give you a bit more detail.
What Eyes Can See - by Elizabeth Brown
This short romance brings us into the world of an introverted, shy Cinderella who wants nothing to do with royalty. You'll be surprised! Of the five, What Eyes Can See is the most similar to the original Cinderella story...but at the same time, while maintaining all of its similarity, it is vastly different. Brown leads us through the normal paces of the tale, but alters the character of each player in a special way to bring a new feel to the reader. It was a superb start to the collection.
Broken Glass - by Emma Clifton
As the comedy out of the collection, Broken Glass does a good job of maintaining familiarity while flipping everyone's expectations upside down. It's a page-turning, prank-riddled pot magical of fun. The characters are outrageous and funny - but beware! The slipper fits the wrong girl, and things could very well all go up in smoke!
The Windy Side of Care - by Rachel Heffington
As a follower of Rachel's blog, I looked forward to reading this piece - it did not disappoint. In a battle of character, we discover that the prince and the princess have essentially switched dispositions. Here, the Cinderella player (Alisandra) is the true heir to the throne and (from my point of view) plays the part of the hero, while the prince is an imposter. I loved Alisandra for her strong, demanding character - it was truly a unique twist on the story and it still managed to have a delightful happy ending.
A Cinder's Tale - by Stephanie Ricker
Out of the five shorts, this one was the most displaced from the original Cinderella story, yet it managed to captivate my utter attention and fascination. A Cinder's Tale is the sci/fi twist that takes us to the edge of the space frontier where mining cendrillion proves to be a well-paying, albeit dangerous job for the brave cinder. Elsa (our Cinderella-like character) works together with her companions to save her mining station from disaster. Her happy ending differs drastically from the rest, yet by the end I left the story with a satisfied sensation - it was a wonderfully different tale to experience!
The Moon Master's Ball - by Clara Diane Thompson
This short was my absolute favourite out the five - I thought it was well placed to end the collection. Wreathed in mystery and magic, The Moon Master's Ball delivers a chilling, spellbinding tale of sacrifice and enchantment, in which Tilly (our Cinderella-like character) must overcome her greatest fear. It seems that everyone hides behind a mask, and only until the end is their true character revealed. If you are a fan of magic, mystery, and masquerades...this is definitely the story for you!
---
All in all, Five Glass Slippers is a wonderful collection. The stories are neither too long nor too short - they're just right for a mid-afternoon break, accompanied with a cup of tea, some biscuits, and a cozy spot on the couch. If you're a fan of fairytales, happy endings, and well-written characters, then I think you'll really enjoy reading these tales.
My rating: 5/5
Despite my excitement, I was a little hesitant about reading some of these stories, simply because I knew all the submissions had been for a contest and (as I mentioned) some of the authors had never been published. However, by the time I finished, I was thoroughly impressed and realized my fears had all been for nothing. The stories are charming, unique, and well crafted. Several had plot twists I didn't expect and left me feeling quite comforted with the various happy-endings. Let me give you a bit more detail.
What Eyes Can See - by Elizabeth Brown
This short romance brings us into the world of an introverted, shy Cinderella who wants nothing to do with royalty. You'll be surprised! Of the five, What Eyes Can See is the most similar to the original Cinderella story...but at the same time, while maintaining all of its similarity, it is vastly different. Brown leads us through the normal paces of the tale, but alters the character of each player in a special way to bring a new feel to the reader. It was a superb start to the collection.
Broken Glass - by Emma Clifton
As the comedy out of the collection, Broken Glass does a good job of maintaining familiarity while flipping everyone's expectations upside down. It's a page-turning, prank-riddled pot magical of fun. The characters are outrageous and funny - but beware! The slipper fits the wrong girl, and things could very well all go up in smoke!
The Windy Side of Care - by Rachel Heffington
As a follower of Rachel's blog, I looked forward to reading this piece - it did not disappoint. In a battle of character, we discover that the prince and the princess have essentially switched dispositions. Here, the Cinderella player (Alisandra) is the true heir to the throne and (from my point of view) plays the part of the hero, while the prince is an imposter. I loved Alisandra for her strong, demanding character - it was truly a unique twist on the story and it still managed to have a delightful happy ending.
A Cinder's Tale - by Stephanie Ricker
Out of the five shorts, this one was the most displaced from the original Cinderella story, yet it managed to captivate my utter attention and fascination. A Cinder's Tale is the sci/fi twist that takes us to the edge of the space frontier where mining cendrillion proves to be a well-paying, albeit dangerous job for the brave cinder. Elsa (our Cinderella-like character) works together with her companions to save her mining station from disaster. Her happy ending differs drastically from the rest, yet by the end I left the story with a satisfied sensation - it was a wonderfully different tale to experience!
The Moon Master's Ball - by Clara Diane Thompson
This short was my absolute favourite out the five - I thought it was well placed to end the collection. Wreathed in mystery and magic, The Moon Master's Ball delivers a chilling, spellbinding tale of sacrifice and enchantment, in which Tilly (our Cinderella-like character) must overcome her greatest fear. It seems that everyone hides behind a mask, and only until the end is their true character revealed. If you are a fan of magic, mystery, and masquerades...this is definitely the story for you!
---
All in all, Five Glass Slippers is a wonderful collection. The stories are neither too long nor too short - they're just right for a mid-afternoon break, accompanied with a cup of tea, some biscuits, and a cozy spot on the couch. If you're a fan of fairytales, happy endings, and well-written characters, then I think you'll really enjoy reading these tales.
My rating: 5/5
Want to read
July 24, 2015This looks AMAZING. I don't normally read novellas, but all of these look so good!
November 29, 2020
Original review on my blog:
INITIAL RESPONSE
I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH FOR REAL.
I'll review each story separately, because I have SO MANY FEELINGS on all of them...
WHAT EYES CAN SEE
Initial Response
*squeals* So. stinkin'. ADORABLE.
High Lights
- I really love that the step-family is portrayed in a good light. Germaine is kind and considerate, Anastasia and Drusilla also.
- Back when I first read this, I had only rated it 3 stars. Silly me! The reasoning for it, I think, was because I didn't really understand Arella. And I think that was because But she is a sweet character and very endearing to me now. :)
- Drusilla is my favorite character out of this story. She's witty, wise, and
- The writing style was really nice and flowing, and I got a perfect image of what was happening in my mind.
Low Lights
- Sometimes I found Arella's shyness a bit overdone, even though I relate and am a quieter person myself.
- The ending was a bit abrupt for me, but I quickly got over that.
- I found Frederick's shallowness somewhat upsetting.
Conclusion
I ADORED IT. I found myself smiling throughout the pages and though the ending was a bit abrupt for my taste, I was still more or less satisfied.
5/5.
BROKEN GLASS
Initial Response
*hugs story* Me + Broken Glass = LOVE. BUT THE EPILOGUE WHERE'S CORRODED THORN I NEED IT.
High Lights
- THE SASS. Oh, the sass.
- Henry is my favorite and he's just wonderful and nobody can tell me otherwise. *nods*
- Rosalind and Marius are HILARIOUS. There is much banter and wit and yes-ness.
- WORLDBUILDING. Like, how do you have such great worldbuilding in a novella?! It was fabulous.
- The COUPLES!
- Just the story in and of itself pretty much. The whole thing. Everything about it. Yep.
- THE EPILOGUE.
Low Lights
- I...can't really think of anything, honestly.
- How about...IT'S TOO SHORT I NEED MORE. No? Okay.
Conclusion
I simply adore this story. The wit and humor is wondrous and hilarious, especially between Rosalind and Marius. And I just really love the idea behind the story. I thought the twists were done very well, and I was sitting on the edge of my seat by the end. Corroded Thorn is now on my tbr-pile!
5/5.
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE
Initial Response
...Wow, that was...intense. O_O
High Lights
- The humor in this story is fabulous. Alis is a plucky, hilarious main character.
- Auguste is the best. Period.
- I really liked the other characters as well, especially Ellen-Best and Lord Humphries. At first I had a sneaking suspicion that he was the evil sort, but the more I got to know him, the more I liked him.
- The writing style is very rich in descriptions and metaphors, which I applaud any writer who can write those with ease. Because I certainly cannot! XD
- The ending was witty and wonderful. Just, yes.
Low Lights
- At times, I felt like the original Cinderella story was lost. Which, even though I enjoyed the story, I was still hoping for more of a retelling rather than a whole new story. Just a minor thing.
- I didn't like the king and queen very much. Once I knew what they had done, I disliked them even more.
Conclusion
This was a really enjoyable tale. Though not my favorite in the collection, I still thought it was a really good, well-written story. Even though it slightly veered away from the original tale. But don't let that stop you from reading it!
4/5.
A CINDER'S TALE
Initial Response
That. was. EPIC!
High Lights
- The whole premise! Cinderella...IN SPACE! :D
- Elsa is such a spunky, witty main character who I love very much.
- Also Jaq and Gus and Bruno. <3
- All the hidden references!! Jaq and Gus ? And Bruno ? Also, Jaq's last name is Perrault. Charles Perrault wrote the original Cinderella story! I love me some hidden references. :)
- Despite being mean and nasty, I really liked Nebraska's character.
- Karl is adorable and Elsa and him need to be a thing. <3
Low Lights
- I...can't think of any, honestly!
- I guess one thing was that the glass slippers, even though they were mentioned, weren't really a part of the story. But that's a totally minor thing to a fantastic story!
Conclusion
I LOVE this story! There's nothing more I can say really. It's just FABULOUS.
5/5.
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL
Initial Response
SO. MANY. MIXED. FEELINGS.
High Lights
- Tilly is just such a great main character. I really love her personality.
- Mystery is my favorite, and I ADORED the suspense. Even though it was killing me. XD
- The Moon Master is awesome. Just, yes.
- SCATTER IS ADORABLE.
- The writing style was really easy to read and I loved the autumnal setting.
- Magical, circuses are always fun.
Low Lights
- SCATTER.
- RODGER.
Conclusion
This was a delightful, whimsical tale! I loved the mystery, suspense, and magic. Even though some THINGS happened...I'm still really pleased with the story. A great way to wrap of the collection!
4/5.
FINAL CONCLUSION
This book is AWESOME! If you love Cinderella retellings, or any kinds of retellings, I highly recommend this collection.
5/5.
Now on to Five Enchanted Roses! <3
INITIAL RESPONSE
I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH FOR REAL.
I'll review each story separately, because I have SO MANY FEELINGS on all of them...
WHAT EYES CAN SEE
Initial Response
*squeals* So. stinkin'. ADORABLE.
High Lights
- I really love that the step-family is portrayed in a good light. Germaine is kind and considerate, Anastasia and Drusilla also.
- Back when I first read this, I had only rated it 3 stars. Silly me! The reasoning for it, I think, was because I didn't really understand Arella. And I think that was because But she is a sweet character and very endearing to me now. :)
- Drusilla is my favorite character out of this story. She's witty, wise, and
- The writing style was really nice and flowing, and I got a perfect image of what was happening in my mind.
Low Lights
- Sometimes I found Arella's shyness a bit overdone, even though I relate and am a quieter person myself.
- The ending was a bit abrupt for me, but I quickly got over that.
- I found Frederick's shallowness somewhat upsetting.
Conclusion
I ADORED IT. I found myself smiling throughout the pages and though the ending was a bit abrupt for my taste, I was still more or less satisfied.
5/5.
BROKEN GLASS
Initial Response
*hugs story* Me + Broken Glass = LOVE. BUT THE EPILOGUE WHERE'S CORRODED THORN I NEED IT.
High Lights
- THE SASS. Oh, the sass.
- Henry is my favorite and he's just wonderful and nobody can tell me otherwise. *nods*
- Rosalind and Marius are HILARIOUS. There is much banter and wit and yes-ness.
- WORLDBUILDING. Like, how do you have such great worldbuilding in a novella?! It was fabulous.
- The COUPLES!
- Just the story in and of itself pretty much. The whole thing. Everything about it. Yep.
- THE EPILOGUE.
Low Lights
- I...can't really think of anything, honestly.
- How about...IT'S TOO SHORT I NEED MORE. No? Okay.
Conclusion
I simply adore this story. The wit and humor is wondrous and hilarious, especially between Rosalind and Marius. And I just really love the idea behind the story. I thought the twists were done very well, and I was sitting on the edge of my seat by the end. Corroded Thorn is now on my tbr-pile!
5/5.
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE
Initial Response
...Wow, that was...intense. O_O
High Lights
- The humor in this story is fabulous. Alis is a plucky, hilarious main character.
- Auguste is the best. Period.
- I really liked the other characters as well, especially Ellen-Best and Lord Humphries. At first I had a sneaking suspicion that he was the evil sort, but the more I got to know him, the more I liked him.
- The writing style is very rich in descriptions and metaphors, which I applaud any writer who can write those with ease. Because I certainly cannot! XD
- The ending was witty and wonderful. Just, yes.
Low Lights
- At times, I felt like the original Cinderella story was lost. Which, even though I enjoyed the story, I was still hoping for more of a retelling rather than a whole new story. Just a minor thing.
- I didn't like the king and queen very much. Once I knew what they had done, I disliked them even more.
Conclusion
This was a really enjoyable tale. Though not my favorite in the collection, I still thought it was a really good, well-written story. Even though it slightly veered away from the original tale. But don't let that stop you from reading it!
4/5.
A CINDER'S TALE
Initial Response
That. was. EPIC!
High Lights
- The whole premise! Cinderella...IN SPACE! :D
- Elsa is such a spunky, witty main character who I love very much.
- Also Jaq and Gus and Bruno. <3
- All the hidden references!! Jaq and Gus ? And Bruno ? Also, Jaq's last name is Perrault. Charles Perrault wrote the original Cinderella story! I love me some hidden references. :)
- Despite being mean and nasty, I really liked Nebraska's character.
- Karl is adorable and Elsa and him need to be a thing. <3
Low Lights
- I...can't think of any, honestly!
- I guess one thing was that the glass slippers, even though they were mentioned, weren't really a part of the story. But that's a totally minor thing to a fantastic story!
Conclusion
I LOVE this story! There's nothing more I can say really. It's just FABULOUS.
5/5.
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL
Initial Response
SO. MANY. MIXED. FEELINGS.
High Lights
- Tilly is just such a great main character. I really love her personality.
- Mystery is my favorite, and I ADORED the suspense. Even though it was killing me. XD
- The Moon Master is awesome. Just, yes.
- SCATTER IS ADORABLE.
- The writing style was really easy to read and I loved the autumnal setting.
- Magical, circuses are always fun.
Low Lights
- SCATTER.
- RODGER.
Conclusion
This was a delightful, whimsical tale! I loved the mystery, suspense, and magic. Even though some THINGS happened...I'm still really pleased with the story. A great way to wrap of the collection!
4/5.
FINAL CONCLUSION
This book is AWESOME! If you love Cinderella retellings, or any kinds of retellings, I highly recommend this collection.
5/5.
Now on to Five Enchanted Roses! <3
July 3, 2014
Most story collections I read get a 3 star, particularly if the stories are all by different authors. This collection, like most collections, was a mixed bag.
The best stories were the last two. The sci-fi one and The Moon Master's Ball.
The worst stories were the first one by Elisabeth Brown and the third one by Rachel Heffington.
The second story was kind of in the middle. Good, but not great.
The first story was basically what would happen if Wives and Daughters mixed up with Disney's Cinderella movie and then collided with a bad cold. :P The narrative was neat and un-selfconscious, but the story suffered from an unattractive heroine who didn't seem to be Cinderella. Cinderella is a nice girl with an unkind family. Arella was a self pitying, personally vain whiner with a wonderful family. I find it odd that so many people compared this story to the work of Jane Austen. That's like comparing Mary Bennett to her sister, Elizabeth. Very little resemblance beyond similar costumes. :) Drusilla, the step sister, was the real heroine of the story, superior to Arella in every respect. For me, she was the real Cinderella. But I didn't much like the romance between her and the Prince. It seemed kind of unfair that Drusilla had to end up with a guy who initially thought her physically unattractive and spent most of the story courting her sister.
The second story was a big improvement. Kind of a combination of Jenni James with a Disney rom-com like Teen Beach Movie. The heroine was not Cinderella--but that was the main twist on the plot. Cinderella was someone else and much of the action of the plot involved figuring out her identity. The story had plenty of light humor--not side-splitting hilarious, but genuinely funny--and the depiction of Prince Henry's lethargic relationship with Rosalind was surprisingly realistic. The main thing I noticed about this one was the prominent villainous character of Prince Darcy, who was by far the most interesting person in the whole thing and contributed to much of the comedy.
The third story has been much raved over by reviewers. I'm not sure why so many people think Heffington's writing is remarkably witty. She has a sense of humor, but a lot of the " witty" stuff was pretty tame. Maybe I'm spoiled after so much exposure to writers like Thackeray and Jane Austen and actors like Groucho Marx and Robin Williams. The main problem I had with this story was the plot never felt fleshed out and believable. It didn't help that the heroine was pert rather than witty. There's a difference between rude and cute. The main appeal this story had was that the heroine was NOT Cinderella. Cinderella is socially vulnerable, not bumptious and insensitive. If you like that way of retelling the story, this was a good example. Regarding the sketchy plot, I think Heffington is probably just better suited to the novel length and her world building is much better in her other stuff.
The fourth story was a very unique retelling. It takes place in a sci-fi world and was truly a proof that fairy tales can apply to any setting. Basically it's a Cinderella-themed episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. It opens slowly, but rapidly gains interest. The main thing that impressed me was this heroine REALLY WAS Cinderella. She showed kindness to the lady who later became her fairy godmother and in a later scene explained her impoverished background to the " prince"--a star ship captain's son--with a simplicity and dignity that felt genuine. I detest noisy, overdone presentations of poverty, and this area alone was enough to make me like the story. The characters of the stepmother and stepsisters were creatively handled and not too sentimental. My only complaint--and it isn't really a serious objection--might be that the romance element was a bit uninteresting. The guy seemed nice and seemed to like her etc, but we didn't get much detail on what the heroine thought about him.
The fifth story was definitely the best. It's not realistic. The characters are mostly stylized and exaggerated. But it felt true to something in human nature--the part of us that relates to the artificial world of ballet and musicals on stage. It was astonishingly creative and quite exciting. I think this one might work well on Broadway. It's sort of like Phantom of the Opera combined with The Nutcracker and with maybe a little bit of scary stuff mixed in. It didn't have much to do with Cinderella, in a sense. But the heroine was believable as a Cinderella figure. The main focus of this tale was on the Prince---and he is a remarkable version of Prince Charming, believe me. Nothing predictable about him. :)
Interesting collection and worth your time, though not all the stories are equally good. I only wish I could have seen the other submissions Anne Elisabeth Stengl received for the contest. :)
The best stories were the last two. The sci-fi one and The Moon Master's Ball.
The worst stories were the first one by Elisabeth Brown and the third one by Rachel Heffington.
The second story was kind of in the middle. Good, but not great.
The first story was basically what would happen if Wives and Daughters mixed up with Disney's Cinderella movie and then collided with a bad cold. :P The narrative was neat and un-selfconscious, but the story suffered from an unattractive heroine who didn't seem to be Cinderella. Cinderella is a nice girl with an unkind family. Arella was a self pitying, personally vain whiner with a wonderful family. I find it odd that so many people compared this story to the work of Jane Austen. That's like comparing Mary Bennett to her sister, Elizabeth. Very little resemblance beyond similar costumes. :) Drusilla, the step sister, was the real heroine of the story, superior to Arella in every respect. For me, she was the real Cinderella. But I didn't much like the romance between her and the Prince. It seemed kind of unfair that Drusilla had to end up with a guy who initially thought her physically unattractive and spent most of the story courting her sister.
The second story was a big improvement. Kind of a combination of Jenni James with a Disney rom-com like Teen Beach Movie. The heroine was not Cinderella--but that was the main twist on the plot. Cinderella was someone else and much of the action of the plot involved figuring out her identity. The story had plenty of light humor--not side-splitting hilarious, but genuinely funny--and the depiction of Prince Henry's lethargic relationship with Rosalind was surprisingly realistic. The main thing I noticed about this one was the prominent villainous character of Prince Darcy, who was by far the most interesting person in the whole thing and contributed to much of the comedy.
The third story has been much raved over by reviewers. I'm not sure why so many people think Heffington's writing is remarkably witty. She has a sense of humor, but a lot of the " witty" stuff was pretty tame. Maybe I'm spoiled after so much exposure to writers like Thackeray and Jane Austen and actors like Groucho Marx and Robin Williams. The main problem I had with this story was the plot never felt fleshed out and believable. It didn't help that the heroine was pert rather than witty. There's a difference between rude and cute. The main appeal this story had was that the heroine was NOT Cinderella. Cinderella is socially vulnerable, not bumptious and insensitive. If you like that way of retelling the story, this was a good example. Regarding the sketchy plot, I think Heffington is probably just better suited to the novel length and her world building is much better in her other stuff.
The fourth story was a very unique retelling. It takes place in a sci-fi world and was truly a proof that fairy tales can apply to any setting. Basically it's a Cinderella-themed episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. It opens slowly, but rapidly gains interest. The main thing that impressed me was this heroine REALLY WAS Cinderella. She showed kindness to the lady who later became her fairy godmother and in a later scene explained her impoverished background to the " prince"--a star ship captain's son--with a simplicity and dignity that felt genuine. I detest noisy, overdone presentations of poverty, and this area alone was enough to make me like the story. The characters of the stepmother and stepsisters were creatively handled and not too sentimental. My only complaint--and it isn't really a serious objection--might be that the romance element was a bit uninteresting. The guy seemed nice and seemed to like her etc, but we didn't get much detail on what the heroine thought about him.
The fifth story was definitely the best. It's not realistic. The characters are mostly stylized and exaggerated. But it felt true to something in human nature--the part of us that relates to the artificial world of ballet and musicals on stage. It was astonishingly creative and quite exciting. I think this one might work well on Broadway. It's sort of like Phantom of the Opera combined with The Nutcracker and with maybe a little bit of scary stuff mixed in. It didn't have much to do with Cinderella, in a sense. But the heroine was believable as a Cinderella figure. The main focus of this tale was on the Prince---and he is a remarkable version of Prince Charming, believe me. Nothing predictable about him. :)
Interesting collection and worth your time, though not all the stories are equally good. I only wish I could have seen the other submissions Anne Elisabeth Stengl received for the contest. :)
January 5, 2018
I'd been looking forward to reading this collection for some time now—but considering that it was an anthology by five different writers, most of whom I'd never read before, I didn't know what to expect until I began it. I was not disappointed! I was charmed and amazed by how these five authors each managed to produce a different twist on the familiar and beloved tale of Cinderella, every one entirely in their own style.
"What Eyes Can See" by Elisabeth Brown follows the traditional tale most closely, and yet still turns it into something completely different by simply and cleverly altering the personalities of a few key characters. It's nice that we get much more of the prince's perspective than usual, too. A very sweet story with gentle humor and a satisfying ending.
"Broken Glass" by Emma Clifton takes a twist on the aftermath of the ball—with the glass slipper fitting the wrong girl, and not one but three princes in the royal family, each after something different, you can expect complications. That's what I liked best about this story: the plotting and counterplotting and layered motives of all the different characters kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next! I felt a little less at home in the steampunk setting, but I thought the concept of the cinder-girls was clever. Some of the dialogue was a bit modern-sounding, but I figured this could be the way steampunk is supposed to be; I'm not at all familiar with the genre.
"The Windy Side of Care" is one of my two favorites in the collection, and not just because I've read Rachel Heffington's work before! I loved the atmosphere of the classic old-world kingdom in which the story is set, the bright, witty dialogue and entertaining characters. Lord Humphries was a favorite, and Auguste is probably the most endearing of the princes in these stories. The short conversation at the end felt a bit tacked-on, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
"A Cinder's Tale," my other favorite, just really took me by surprise. I'm new to sci-fi, and really only interested in a few specific books rather than the whole genre, but I couldn't put this story down. Stephanie Ricker has created an incredibly detailed, fully realized sci-fi universe, and what's more, a cast of likeable and interesting characters that fit perfectly into it. I loved the way she borrowed bits and names from the Disney version of Cinderella and transformed them into human personalities (Bruno was my favorite). It's also the most exciting and suspenseful story of the collection, I think.
As an aside, one of the most fun parts about this anthology was seeing the different guises in which the stepmother, stepsisters, fairy godmother and so on appear in each story. The take on the stepsisters in "A Cinder's Tale" was the funniest, especially the "fitting" scene near the end.
"The Moon Master's Ball" by Clara Diane Thompson delves into magic and enchantments far more than the other stories. I thought the writing stumbled a bit in repetitive or awkward telling of what characters were thinking or feeling, but I did enjoy the evocative setting of the quaint but eerie village and the magical circus. Lord Hollingberry was one of my favorite characters—his scene with the coachman and carriage made me chuckle.
So if you love the story of Cinderella, fairytale retellings, or simply enjoy unique stories with humor, romance, excitement and a dash of magic, definitely pick up Five Glass Slippers. It's a lovely collection that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
{Full disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review; the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.}
"What Eyes Can See" by Elisabeth Brown follows the traditional tale most closely, and yet still turns it into something completely different by simply and cleverly altering the personalities of a few key characters. It's nice that we get much more of the prince's perspective than usual, too. A very sweet story with gentle humor and a satisfying ending.
"Broken Glass" by Emma Clifton takes a twist on the aftermath of the ball—with the glass slipper fitting the wrong girl, and not one but three princes in the royal family, each after something different, you can expect complications. That's what I liked best about this story: the plotting and counterplotting and layered motives of all the different characters kept me turning pages to find out what would happen next! I felt a little less at home in the steampunk setting, but I thought the concept of the cinder-girls was clever. Some of the dialogue was a bit modern-sounding, but I figured this could be the way steampunk is supposed to be; I'm not at all familiar with the genre.
"The Windy Side of Care" is one of my two favorites in the collection, and not just because I've read Rachel Heffington's work before! I loved the atmosphere of the classic old-world kingdom in which the story is set, the bright, witty dialogue and entertaining characters. Lord Humphries was a favorite, and Auguste is probably the most endearing of the princes in these stories. The short conversation at the end felt a bit tacked-on, but overall I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
"A Cinder's Tale," my other favorite, just really took me by surprise. I'm new to sci-fi, and really only interested in a few specific books rather than the whole genre, but I couldn't put this story down. Stephanie Ricker has created an incredibly detailed, fully realized sci-fi universe, and what's more, a cast of likeable and interesting characters that fit perfectly into it. I loved the way she borrowed bits and names from the Disney version of Cinderella and transformed them into human personalities (Bruno was my favorite). It's also the most exciting and suspenseful story of the collection, I think.
As an aside, one of the most fun parts about this anthology was seeing the different guises in which the stepmother, stepsisters, fairy godmother and so on appear in each story. The take on the stepsisters in "A Cinder's Tale" was the funniest, especially the "fitting" scene near the end.
"The Moon Master's Ball" by Clara Diane Thompson delves into magic and enchantments far more than the other stories. I thought the writing stumbled a bit in repetitive or awkward telling of what characters were thinking or feeling, but I did enjoy the evocative setting of the quaint but eerie village and the magical circus. Lord Hollingberry was one of my favorite characters—his scene with the coachman and carriage made me chuckle.
So if you love the story of Cinderella, fairytale retellings, or simply enjoy unique stories with humor, romance, excitement and a dash of magic, definitely pick up Five Glass Slippers. It's a lovely collection that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
{Full disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. I was under no obligation to write a positive review; the opinions expressed here are entirely my own.}
June 4, 2014
This review is for "A Cinder's Tale" by Stephanie Ricker, who asked me to review the story.
The tale of Cinderella is hundreds of years old now, and few who live in the western world are unfamiliar with at least a sanitized version of it (thanks, Disney!). How, then, is it possible to put an original spin on it? The answer, according to Ricker, is to pick the characters up and plop them down in space.
That's right: Cinderella in space. In this way, and also by altering the basic situations of the characters (the wicked stepmother character becomes Cinderella's (that is, Elsa's) supervisor at work, the stepsisters become a couple of colleagues, etc.), Ricker lends an element of originality to her retelling that is refreshing in a culture overrun with too much recycling of trite themes. Indeed, the characters of "A Cinder's Tale" are the best part, rendered so knowingly and vividly that one almost suspects some to be portraits of real people, albeit people one would never want to get to know in real life.
The most intriguing aspect of Ricker's re-telling, however, is that the romance is underplayed, that it is not the point of the story. For some readers this may be a turn-off, but the effect is achieved with such subtlety that the reader barely notices, too caught up in the life-and-death struggles of the cinders and Tremaine Station. The romance is there, however, and though it is perhaps left open-ended, readers yearning for a good love story will nonetheless be satisfied.
Finally, Ricker also sprinkles a few nods to the familiar Disney version throughout the story, almost like little gold nuggets waiting to be found. It's like a game hunting them down, and there is a little thrill of victory each time one is noticed and found.
All in all, Stephanie Ricker has made an excellent debut to the world of longer fiction with her story "A Cinder's Tale." I am anxiously awaiting the upcoming sequel, "The Cendrillon Cycle"!
The tale of Cinderella is hundreds of years old now, and few who live in the western world are unfamiliar with at least a sanitized version of it (thanks, Disney!). How, then, is it possible to put an original spin on it? The answer, according to Ricker, is to pick the characters up and plop them down in space.
That's right: Cinderella in space. In this way, and also by altering the basic situations of the characters (the wicked stepmother character becomes Cinderella's (that is, Elsa's) supervisor at work, the stepsisters become a couple of colleagues, etc.), Ricker lends an element of originality to her retelling that is refreshing in a culture overrun with too much recycling of trite themes. Indeed, the characters of "A Cinder's Tale" are the best part, rendered so knowingly and vividly that one almost suspects some to be portraits of real people, albeit people one would never want to get to know in real life.
The most intriguing aspect of Ricker's re-telling, however, is that the romance is underplayed, that it is not the point of the story. For some readers this may be a turn-off, but the effect is achieved with such subtlety that the reader barely notices, too caught up in the life-and-death struggles of the cinders and Tremaine Station. The romance is there, however, and though it is perhaps left open-ended, readers yearning for a good love story will nonetheless be satisfied.
Finally, Ricker also sprinkles a few nods to the familiar Disney version throughout the story, almost like little gold nuggets waiting to be found. It's like a game hunting them down, and there is a little thrill of victory each time one is noticed and found.
All in all, Stephanie Ricker has made an excellent debut to the world of longer fiction with her story "A Cinder's Tale." I am anxiously awaiting the upcoming sequel, "The Cendrillon Cycle"!
June 20, 2014
Five Glass Slippers from Rogglewood Press is a delightful mix of five Cinderella stories. Gleaned from a contest that took place in the second half of 2013.
And the winning titles are:
WHAT EYES CAN SEE by Elizabeth Brown
BROKEN GLASS by Emma Clifton
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE by Rachel Heffington
A CINDER’S TALE by Stephanie Ricker
THE MOON MASTER’S BALL by Clara Diane Thompson
With stories as varied as their titles the Cinderella thread can be found throughout each story whether the story takes place in a traditional setting or in a futuristic one. With unique twists each story will keep you enraptured as these five authors weave their spells with the magic of words.
A refused prince. A glass slipper mix-up. A prince who's throne is about to be stolen. A mining colony. And a circus. There's a story sure to appeal to everyone. Curl-up with a nice cup of tea and be prepared to be swept away as 5 Cinderella's meet their prince!
I was provided a digital review copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
And the winning titles are:
WHAT EYES CAN SEE by Elizabeth Brown
BROKEN GLASS by Emma Clifton
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE by Rachel Heffington
A CINDER’S TALE by Stephanie Ricker
THE MOON MASTER’S BALL by Clara Diane Thompson
With stories as varied as their titles the Cinderella thread can be found throughout each story whether the story takes place in a traditional setting or in a futuristic one. With unique twists each story will keep you enraptured as these five authors weave their spells with the magic of words.
A refused prince. A glass slipper mix-up. A prince who's throne is about to be stolen. A mining colony. And a circus. There's a story sure to appeal to everyone. Curl-up with a nice cup of tea and be prepared to be swept away as 5 Cinderella's meet their prince!
I was provided a digital review copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
June 16, 2014
Wonderful collection of retellings of the classic fairy tale Cinderella! Five Glass Slippers really does have something for everyone!
Being a sci fi fan, I'd have to say that A Cinder's Tale was my favorite. But truthfully, I enjoyed reading all five stories. Even the genres that i don't normally read were so intriguing and well-written, that I couldn't put it down!
This book is one of the rare titles that adults and teens will both enjoy. I love finding great books that are also appropriate reading for my kids!
I'll definitely be reading this one again and again!
Being a sci fi fan, I'd have to say that A Cinder's Tale was my favorite. But truthfully, I enjoyed reading all five stories. Even the genres that i don't normally read were so intriguing and well-written, that I couldn't put it down!
This book is one of the rare titles that adults and teens will both enjoy. I love finding great books that are also appropriate reading for my kids!
I'll definitely be reading this one again and again!
February 3, 2016
Wow!
I loved this book! The stories were all so good! Though my favorite would have to be the last one... I love Anne's idea for these books! Excited for the next one:) would recommend to anyone who likes fairytales, romance, and books
I loved this book! The stories were all so good! Though my favorite would have to be the last one... I love Anne's idea for these books! Excited for the next one:) would recommend to anyone who likes fairytales, romance, and books
July 6, 2016
Please note: I am rating this overall 5 stars because there was one PERFECT story and one so close to perfect that for the sake of not doing half-stars I'm going to call a 5 star as well. The rest of the stories I rate two 4's and one 3. So the average rating of the collection ought to be about 4 stars. But I'm saying it's 5 for the sake of the two I loved most.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE - Elisabeth Brown
My Rating: 3 stars
This was certainly enjoyable, and had some different twists, so the idea was fine but something about it just fell a little flat for me? I liked that the stepmother and stepsisters weren't mean! That was awesome. The heroine was so shy and quiet, which normally would endear her to me... but she was TOO much. So I just couldn't... like her. Somehow. I'm sure most other people would though. The prince's character arc was really cool and I liked him. I guess the main two problems I had with this were as follows: (MAJOR SPOILERS. DO NOT READ UNLESS YOU HAVE READ IT OR WANT IT SPOILED FOR YOU.) But overall it was a good story I suppose, just... not for me, maybe? I really enjoyed some of the fresh looks, I just couldn't get behind all of the changes, I guess. But it was still enjoyable!
BROKEN GLASS - Emma Clifton
My Review: 5 stars!
By far my favorite in the collection! I adored it so much!
It may tell you something to say that I adored it so much that I read it aloud to my younger siblings after reading it the first time, just to have an excuse to read it again. (Not to mention the immense fun of getting to narrate such a delicious cast of characters and witty lines aloud! Scrumptious.) I had not a single complaint about this story. Which, lately, is indeed a rare find among the books I read! I loved everything. The writing was amazing, brilliant, and witty — every word was intricately yet effortlessly woven together with its neighbors, creating sentences that packed a punch and I was just staring in awe half the time because of how simply fabulous it was.
The characters. THE CHARACTERS!!! They were such a glorious bunch who often had me hysterical with laughter! All the humor and snark and banter and gaaah I loved these characters so much! The three princes were so awesome to read about, different as they were! I just loved reading about that entire messed-up family. It was a delight! Spoiled, full-of-himself Marius, dark and shadowy Darcy, endearing and wonderful Henry… All favorite characters in their own right! (Despite certain failings on the part of some… ;)) Rosalind and the cinder-girl and the (quite surprising!) fairy godmother were all great too! Each were distinct and fully real. I LOVE THEM ALL. The whole story was bursting at the seams with this spontaneous crackling cast of characters. I can’t even EXPRESS how much I loved the characters and the humor and their interactions!
The story itself was awesome. I loved how it feels like a Cinderella retelling, and yet at the same time like its own tale, especially how it starts in an unusual place — when the slipper is being tried on . . . and fits the wrong girl! The twists were wonderful. I was just amazed at how many different story threads were going on, weaving together seamlessly. It was fantastic! I loved the setting! It’s fantasy with a dose of magic and some fabulous steampunk — surprising, but actually incredibly well fitted to the tale! It just all felt so awesome and I loved feeling a part of this lovely world.
The story and characters had a “British” feel to me, which is basically the highest compliment I’m capable of giving a book, and I really can’t describe it any other way. (If that makes sense to not a single person in the world besides me, I do apologize…) But something about the writing and style and dialog reminded me in some indefinable way of beloved books like Entwined and Howl's Moving Castle.
Between a twisty retelling, a beautimous setting of steampunk and magic, a cast of colorful characters that you’ll find yourself falling in love with despite their bickering, some mad schemes and uproarious disasters, a touch of superb EPICNESS by the end, hoards of humor and wit and snarky dialog that just begs to be quoted aloud, not to mention the tea and cucumber sandwiches — why, what is not to love about this, quite simply, incredibly fabulous, rollicking, hilarious tale?
OH MY GOODNESS, SO MUCH LOVE. <3
(Review for Broken Glass originally posted on The Road of a Writer: https://deborahocarroll.wordpress.com...)
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE - Rachel Heffington
My Rating: 4 stars
I disliked the heroine and basically couldn't abide her. For the first half or so the writing was choking me with its overstudied richness that always wavered indefinably between amazing and pretentious. (The writing reminded me a lot of Plenilune and was like that rich chocolate cake that is so difficult to plow your way through when you're already stuffed. This sort of writing you really have to be in the mood for and I don't think I was.) But I love Prince Auguste so much (and, unexpectedly, ended up liking Lord Humphries!) and it got intriguing by the end and the heroine became less unsufferable, so I grew to tolerate the story, mostly for Auguste's sake (he is so so awesome! And feels so British!) that it forced me into liking it by the end. But I do dislike being forced... Anyways it's a good read, and worth it for the hero at any rate. Auguste has the best lines! I basically adore him and yes he is just fabulous. So read it!
A CINDER'S TALE - Stephanie Ricker
My Rating: 4 stars
I am most adamantly not a sci-fi person. It is just not my genre. So nothing against this particular story, I was just bored for the start of it because the genre just doesn't mesh with me. However I did grow to like the characters a lot, finding them an endearing bunch of friends, and enjoyed myself and it was a surprisingly good tale once I grew accustomed to the sci-fi. I think with sci-fi I need to take some time to get properly immersed, and once I did I liked it. I also liked the thing about the fay from the fay planet! At least it's a slightly fantasy feeling sci-fi. Anyways the characters were fun, with a lot of funny dialog, and naturally I liked Karl a lot. ;) So, this story was not my favorite, just due to genre (I'm sure others would like it more!) but it was original and I did enjoy it a lot!
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL - Clara Diane Thompson
My Rating: 5 stars with one reservation
How do I even DESCRIBE this one?? IT WAS KIND OF TOTALLY AWESOME OKAY. It has this mysterious, almost whimsical, eerie and elegant feel. Snatches of it reminded me of several different books (The Night Circus, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, Chrestomanci, Wuthering Heights, as well as the poem/song Stolen Child) but at the same time was nothing like anything I've read.
Tilly was such a likeable character. I loved the mysteriousness and tragedy and dramatic feel of the Moon Master himself! The white mouse -- I adored the white mouse! Scatter. SCATTER. Scatter the white mouse was so adorable especially when we got to be in his mind for a moment and I loved him and want him to be mine. The story did end up getting rather scary -- the eerie turned into creepy -- and I was reading with wide eyes and couldn't stop. The mysteries and creepiness and sudden reveals from time to time will make your heart stop repeatedly! They definitely made mine stop, anyway... O_O Just. Wow.
Overall, it's my second favorite story in the collection, and might almost have tied for first place except for one thing, which is my reservation to the 5 star rating and almost made me knock it down to 4. But... well... I guess I can't really let that blot out the rest of the amazingness of the story. BUT STILL. That was not okay and makes me sad. :( Anyways, aside from that one reservation, The Moon Master's Ball is my second favorite in this collection and the feel was so cool and just GAAAH I loved it! Now I just wish there had been more about the Moon Master himself! ;)
WHAT EYES CAN SEE - Elisabeth Brown
My Rating: 3 stars
This was certainly enjoyable, and had some different twists, so the idea was fine but something about it just fell a little flat for me? I liked that the stepmother and stepsisters weren't mean! That was awesome. The heroine was so shy and quiet, which normally would endear her to me... but she was TOO much. So I just couldn't... like her. Somehow. I'm sure most other people would though. The prince's character arc was really cool and I liked him. I guess the main two problems I had with this were as follows: (MAJOR SPOILERS. DO NOT READ UNLESS YOU HAVE READ IT OR WANT IT SPOILED FOR YOU.) But overall it was a good story I suppose, just... not for me, maybe? I really enjoyed some of the fresh looks, I just couldn't get behind all of the changes, I guess. But it was still enjoyable!
BROKEN GLASS - Emma Clifton
My Review: 5 stars!
By far my favorite in the collection! I adored it so much!
It may tell you something to say that I adored it so much that I read it aloud to my younger siblings after reading it the first time, just to have an excuse to read it again. (Not to mention the immense fun of getting to narrate such a delicious cast of characters and witty lines aloud! Scrumptious.) I had not a single complaint about this story. Which, lately, is indeed a rare find among the books I read! I loved everything. The writing was amazing, brilliant, and witty — every word was intricately yet effortlessly woven together with its neighbors, creating sentences that packed a punch and I was just staring in awe half the time because of how simply fabulous it was.
The characters. THE CHARACTERS!!! They were such a glorious bunch who often had me hysterical with laughter! All the humor and snark and banter and gaaah I loved these characters so much! The three princes were so awesome to read about, different as they were! I just loved reading about that entire messed-up family. It was a delight! Spoiled, full-of-himself Marius, dark and shadowy Darcy, endearing and wonderful Henry… All favorite characters in their own right! (Despite certain failings on the part of some… ;)) Rosalind and the cinder-girl and the (quite surprising!) fairy godmother were all great too! Each were distinct and fully real. I LOVE THEM ALL. The whole story was bursting at the seams with this spontaneous crackling cast of characters. I can’t even EXPRESS how much I loved the characters and the humor and their interactions!
The story itself was awesome. I loved how it feels like a Cinderella retelling, and yet at the same time like its own tale, especially how it starts in an unusual place — when the slipper is being tried on . . . and fits the wrong girl! The twists were wonderful. I was just amazed at how many different story threads were going on, weaving together seamlessly. It was fantastic! I loved the setting! It’s fantasy with a dose of magic and some fabulous steampunk — surprising, but actually incredibly well fitted to the tale! It just all felt so awesome and I loved feeling a part of this lovely world.
The story and characters had a “British” feel to me, which is basically the highest compliment I’m capable of giving a book, and I really can’t describe it any other way. (If that makes sense to not a single person in the world besides me, I do apologize…) But something about the writing and style and dialog reminded me in some indefinable way of beloved books like Entwined and Howl's Moving Castle.
Between a twisty retelling, a beautimous setting of steampunk and magic, a cast of colorful characters that you’ll find yourself falling in love with despite their bickering, some mad schemes and uproarious disasters, a touch of superb EPICNESS by the end, hoards of humor and wit and snarky dialog that just begs to be quoted aloud, not to mention the tea and cucumber sandwiches — why, what is not to love about this, quite simply, incredibly fabulous, rollicking, hilarious tale?
OH MY GOODNESS, SO MUCH LOVE. <3
(Review for Broken Glass originally posted on The Road of a Writer: https://deborahocarroll.wordpress.com...)
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE - Rachel Heffington
My Rating: 4 stars
I disliked the heroine and basically couldn't abide her. For the first half or so the writing was choking me with its overstudied richness that always wavered indefinably between amazing and pretentious. (The writing reminded me a lot of Plenilune and was like that rich chocolate cake that is so difficult to plow your way through when you're already stuffed. This sort of writing you really have to be in the mood for and I don't think I was.) But I love Prince Auguste so much (and, unexpectedly, ended up liking Lord Humphries!) and it got intriguing by the end and the heroine became less unsufferable, so I grew to tolerate the story, mostly for Auguste's sake (he is so so awesome! And feels so British!) that it forced me into liking it by the end. But I do dislike being forced... Anyways it's a good read, and worth it for the hero at any rate. Auguste has the best lines! I basically adore him and yes he is just fabulous. So read it!
A CINDER'S TALE - Stephanie Ricker
My Rating: 4 stars
I am most adamantly not a sci-fi person. It is just not my genre. So nothing against this particular story, I was just bored for the start of it because the genre just doesn't mesh with me. However I did grow to like the characters a lot, finding them an endearing bunch of friends, and enjoyed myself and it was a surprisingly good tale once I grew accustomed to the sci-fi. I think with sci-fi I need to take some time to get properly immersed, and once I did I liked it. I also liked the thing about the fay from the fay planet! At least it's a slightly fantasy feeling sci-fi. Anyways the characters were fun, with a lot of funny dialog, and naturally I liked Karl a lot. ;) So, this story was not my favorite, just due to genre (I'm sure others would like it more!) but it was original and I did enjoy it a lot!
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL - Clara Diane Thompson
My Rating: 5 stars with one reservation
How do I even DESCRIBE this one?? IT WAS KIND OF TOTALLY AWESOME OKAY. It has this mysterious, almost whimsical, eerie and elegant feel. Snatches of it reminded me of several different books (The Night Circus, Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, Chrestomanci, Wuthering Heights, as well as the poem/song Stolen Child) but at the same time was nothing like anything I've read.
Tilly was such a likeable character. I loved the mysteriousness and tragedy and dramatic feel of the Moon Master himself! The white mouse -- I adored the white mouse! Scatter. SCATTER. Scatter the white mouse was so adorable especially when we got to be in his mind for a moment and I loved him and want him to be mine. The story did end up getting rather scary -- the eerie turned into creepy -- and I was reading with wide eyes and couldn't stop. The mysteries and creepiness and sudden reveals from time to time will make your heart stop repeatedly! They definitely made mine stop, anyway... O_O Just. Wow.
Overall, it's my second favorite story in the collection, and might almost have tied for first place except for one thing, which is my reservation to the 5 star rating and almost made me knock it down to 4. But... well... I guess I can't really let that blot out the rest of the amazingness of the story. BUT STILL. That was not okay and makes me sad. :( Anyways, aside from that one reservation, The Moon Master's Ball is my second favorite in this collection and the feel was so cool and just GAAAH I loved it! Now I just wish there had been more about the Moon Master himself! ;)
August 13, 2017
For the first book: The ending made the story. The whole story was fairly good, with a few cool differentiations from the original tale. Like the stepmother and some things about the 'Cinderella' character. My biggest problem was I did not care about 'Cinderella' in the end that was okay because of how the story turned out. I really liked how it showed so truly actions real people would take, the characters were all quite real. I really enjoyed the story, but can't say much more because spoilers, so I shall leave it at really enjoying it. 3.5 stars. which I would put up to 4 if I were reviewing just this single story. (I did giggle through the end of it, it is such a sweet story that rings with truth)
For the second story: This one was really good, a pretty good ending too. It actually managed to surprise me, and was satisfying. The setting was unique, and the characters pretty cool. I quite liked how the characters changed in such a short time, and how their relationships with one another changed. Four stars for this one.
The Third story: On the Windy Side of Care was amusing. It seemed far shorter than the others, and very fast paced. I loved the characters, it was simple but better written than the others. It was definitely four solid stars. I giggled quite a lot. I really liked the whole concept of the story and how similar it was to the original while being vastly different.
Fourth Story: A Cinder's Tale. This one has to be my favourite, as cool, and sweet as the others were, this one had a sci-fi setting which really set it apart. It was obviously a retelling but it used more elements and a lot less of the actual original story. It was not twisty, but the characters and how they all worked together was really nice, characters with that kind of comradery are always fun to read about and the world building so fun. The author obviously thought about her world a lot before (or while) writing. 4.5 stars
The last story: It intrigued me all the way though, and spent the beginning wondering what it had to do with Cinderella. It is vaguely reminded me of Marissa Myers Heartless. I really enjoyed the story. It was darker than the others and far more mysterious. It was intense and page turning (even though I listened to it as an audio book) I think I would rate this one 5 stars.
For the second story: This one was really good, a pretty good ending too. It actually managed to surprise me, and was satisfying. The setting was unique, and the characters pretty cool. I quite liked how the characters changed in such a short time, and how their relationships with one another changed. Four stars for this one.
The Third story: On the Windy Side of Care was amusing. It seemed far shorter than the others, and very fast paced. I loved the characters, it was simple but better written than the others. It was definitely four solid stars. I giggled quite a lot. I really liked the whole concept of the story and how similar it was to the original while being vastly different.
Fourth Story: A Cinder's Tale. This one has to be my favourite, as cool, and sweet as the others were, this one had a sci-fi setting which really set it apart. It was obviously a retelling but it used more elements and a lot less of the actual original story. It was not twisty, but the characters and how they all worked together was really nice, characters with that kind of comradery are always fun to read about and the world building so fun. The author obviously thought about her world a lot before (or while) writing. 4.5 stars
The last story: It intrigued me all the way though, and spent the beginning wondering what it had to do with Cinderella. It is vaguely reminded me of Marissa Myers Heartless. I really enjoyed the story. It was darker than the others and far more mysterious. It was intense and page turning (even though I listened to it as an audio book) I think I would rate this one 5 stars.
August 7, 2014
I'm cheating. I have not completely finished this book yet, but as it may be awhile before I read the last story, I'm going to jump in with a fib tipped to Goodreads and merely state I've read it. All that said, here's my two cents on the book.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE // 3 STARS
This is a sweet story, but the plot seemed a little incoherent to me. I had difficulties understanding who was the main character (and then began to wonder if there was a main character). However, it is a sweet little tale with an interesting twist on the original Cinderella story.
BROKEN GLASS // 5 STARS
This is honestly the best Cinderella retelling I've read since ELLA ENCHANTED. The characters and plot were so squeal-worthy perfect that I sent an email to the author the instant I finished it (at 4:00 in the morning) with embarrassingly fangirlish rants. Needless to say, this entire collection is worth purchasing if only to read BROKEN GLASS.
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE // 4 STARS
I wish this story could have been longer, for I feel that if it were, the characters and plot would have had more time to develop into a very good story. As it was, it felt a little rushed. However, it was a sweet, interesting tale and bubbled with the endearing style I've come to expect from this particular author.
A CINDER'S TALE // UNKNOWN STARS...
...because I have not read it yet. Apologies. The beginning had not latched onto my attention enough for me to continue reading it before other books on my reading list.
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL // 5 STARS
Now this story was almost as good, if not just as good, as BROKEN GLASS. I grew terribly fond of the characters in this eerie, magical tale (the Moon Master becomes all the more captivating when you picture him as Colin Morgan), and I do believe that Tilly Higgins made my favorite Cinderella out of the bunch. All in all, it's five stars well-earned.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE // 3 STARS
This is a sweet story, but the plot seemed a little incoherent to me. I had difficulties understanding who was the main character (and then began to wonder if there was a main character). However, it is a sweet little tale with an interesting twist on the original Cinderella story.
BROKEN GLASS // 5 STARS
This is honestly the best Cinderella retelling I've read since ELLA ENCHANTED. The characters and plot were so squeal-worthy perfect that I sent an email to the author the instant I finished it (at 4:00 in the morning) with embarrassingly fangirlish rants. Needless to say, this entire collection is worth purchasing if only to read BROKEN GLASS.
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE // 4 STARS
I wish this story could have been longer, for I feel that if it were, the characters and plot would have had more time to develop into a very good story. As it was, it felt a little rushed. However, it was a sweet, interesting tale and bubbled with the endearing style I've come to expect from this particular author.
A CINDER'S TALE // UNKNOWN STARS...
...because I have not read it yet. Apologies. The beginning had not latched onto my attention enough for me to continue reading it before other books on my reading list.
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL // 5 STARS
Now this story was almost as good, if not just as good, as BROKEN GLASS. I grew terribly fond of the characters in this eerie, magical tale (the Moon Master becomes all the more captivating when you picture him as Colin Morgan), and I do believe that Tilly Higgins made my favorite Cinderella out of the bunch. All in all, it's five stars well-earned.
June 14, 2014
Fairy tales were always my go-to bedtime stories. Even as an adult, Cinderella is a story that has remained dear to me. I've read many different versions from different cultures of Cinderella. So I came to this collection hoping to find stories that were fresh and interesting, without being untrue to the Cinderella lore. I wasn't disappointed! Each story was surprising and unique!
What Eyes Can See- A shy Cinderella who doesn't want to be the center of anyone's attention, much less the crown prince! A beautiful story for the introvert in all of us.
Broken Glass- What happens when the glass slipper fits the wrong girl? This story was hilarious and compelling! I loved the characters and was so drawn in to the story that I stayed up late to finish it in one sitting.
The Windy Side of Care- Cinderella is the true heir to the throne, but how will she get it back? A great story with a wonderful female heroine. Where was this stuff when I was growing up?
A Cinder's Tale- I certainly wasn't sure how Cinderella in space would work, but it turned out to be one of my favorites! I now want to read more fairy-tales in space and was elated to find out that the author, Stephanie Ricker is publishing more from the same universe in The Cendrillon Cycle later this year!
The Moon Master's Ball- Very suspenseful and a great finale to this collection. Enchantment and mystery surround a the life of a sweet maid. A real page-turner!
What Eyes Can See- A shy Cinderella who doesn't want to be the center of anyone's attention, much less the crown prince! A beautiful story for the introvert in all of us.
Broken Glass- What happens when the glass slipper fits the wrong girl? This story was hilarious and compelling! I loved the characters and was so drawn in to the story that I stayed up late to finish it in one sitting.
The Windy Side of Care- Cinderella is the true heir to the throne, but how will she get it back? A great story with a wonderful female heroine. Where was this stuff when I was growing up?
A Cinder's Tale- I certainly wasn't sure how Cinderella in space would work, but it turned out to be one of my favorites! I now want to read more fairy-tales in space and was elated to find out that the author, Stephanie Ricker is publishing more from the same universe in The Cendrillon Cycle later this year!
The Moon Master's Ball- Very suspenseful and a great finale to this collection. Enchantment and mystery surround a the life of a sweet maid. A real page-turner!
June 28, 2014
What fun! I so enjoy re-tellings and these ladies have done a fabulous job re-imagining Cinderella. I was quite impressed with their writing! They obviously had lots of fun sending Cinderella on so many different adventures. All the way into outer space even! :) Each short story has it's own feel and atmosphere, making it easy to get swept away. They were all delightful in their own way, but I confess to enjoying What Eyes Can See the most. By shining the spotlight on someone atypical of the Cinderella storyline, I really enjoyed watching it all unfold. But that's not to say the other's weren't entertaining! I'd never thought to imagine Cinderella in all the places these ladies took her, yet still staying true to the original story. You might not recognize her name, you may not recognize her situation, but the triumph of love and the importance of staying true to oneself are clearly visible. And how can you help but enjoy the bickering in The Windy Side of Care, the eerie yet irresistible Moon Master in The Moon Master's Ball, the friendships and fun of Broken Glass, and the camaraderie and heroism of A Cinder's Tale? All five stories are charming and I closed the book well satisfied that these "Cinderella's" had found their happy ending. I look forward to seeing what these ladies will write in the future! :)
Read
September 16, 2014What I Loved
Told with the signature style I've come to expect from Rachel Heffington, The Windy Side of Care retells Cinderella in a delightfully whimsical way. Quirky. Plucky. Funny. Endearing. Alis is all of these--and she is bent on reclaiming the throne she knows is rightfully hers.
So what does she do with the prince who currently claims her royal status? Fall in love with him and include him in her plotting, of course. (I so want to remark on some of the things they plot, but I'll refrain in an effort to remain mostly spoiler-free.) Rest assured, it is pretty amazing...
What I Didn't Like As Much
Auguste, at first, seemed spoiled-bratty, but then he and Alis meet. Wham. Cupid strikes hard (but in a believable, fun-smile way) and he's adorable with her. He completely redeems himself from my first impressions of him during Alis' trial. (I must zip my lips before I disclose the amazing ending Rachel cooked up!)
I heartily recommend this book for fairy-tale lovers, fans of the olde style of writing that engages and amuses, and those who admire a good story told in a sadly-short amount of pages--this is a novella, after all. And what a novella at that.
Told with the signature style I've come to expect from Rachel Heffington, The Windy Side of Care retells Cinderella in a delightfully whimsical way. Quirky. Plucky. Funny. Endearing. Alis is all of these--and she is bent on reclaiming the throne she knows is rightfully hers.
So what does she do with the prince who currently claims her royal status? Fall in love with him and include him in her plotting, of course. (I so want to remark on some of the things they plot, but I'll refrain in an effort to remain mostly spoiler-free.) Rest assured, it is pretty amazing...
What I Didn't Like As Much
Auguste, at first, seemed spoiled-bratty, but then he and Alis meet. Wham. Cupid strikes hard (but in a believable, fun-smile way) and he's adorable with her. He completely redeems himself from my first impressions of him during Alis' trial. (I must zip my lips before I disclose the amazing ending Rachel cooked up!)
I heartily recommend this book for fairy-tale lovers, fans of the olde style of writing that engages and amuses, and those who admire a good story told in a sadly-short amount of pages--this is a novella, after all. And what a novella at that.
September 12, 2016
I reviewed each of these stories separately, and am pasting them all here.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE
What happens when Cinderella is so painfully shy that she cannot bear the idea of attending a royal ball?
What Eyes Can See is a truly sweet re-telling of the classic Cinderella story, with a few little surprising twists. Arella, the main character of the story does indeed live with her stepfamily, none of whom are evil. The stepmother is doing her best to raise her three daughters and introduce them into society. The story actually felt a little tiny bit like Pride and Prejudice or Sense and Sensibility. Though the three sisters are all very different, they get along fairly well. Drusilla, the oldest, is kind and wise and a good listener. Anastasia reminded me a lot of Lydia from Pride and Prejudice, just a bubbling ball of energy and enthusiasm – and a whimsical wish for more romance in her life…
Arella, on the other hand, is extremely, painfully shy. She has no use for the latest fashions, and the idea of a royal ball terrifies her. However, when her family is invited to the prince’s ball, Arella reluctantly agrees to go… as long as she is allowed to leave at midnight… because she has no wish to dishonor her family in any way. I’m going to stop there, because I really don’t want to give anything more away. “Spoilers!” :)
I really enjoyed this tale. I loved the characters, hoped that everything would end the way I wanted it to, and yes, even shed a tear or two at the last line. Although there was no fairy godmother, no pumpkin, and no wicked stepmother, this tale was decidedly recognizable as a Cinderella story, and I loved it for its differences. And although no magic made an appearance, the story itself was quite magical.
I will be keeping an eye out for more by this author.
BROKEN GLASS
Could two stories be more different? Broken Glass by Emma Clifton, the second story in the compilation Five Glass Slippers, is practically the exact opposite of What Eyes Can See. While the first story really doesn’t have much of a villain, the second has them lurking around every corner. Evil stepmothers, stubborn kings, unkind cinder-factory managers, conniving younger brothers, rather misguided fairy godmothers… and even the heroes are often lacking in many of the more noble qualities.
Practically every character is detestable in some way (but I don’t mean that as a criticism of the story, it’s what makes this tale work!) Usually, I’m not a huge fan of stories where there’s nobody to root for, and yet, there are just enough redeemable qualities about these characters that I was able to hope for redemption and a happy ending. Now, whether or not there IS redemption or a happy ending, I’m not going to tell – just that I was able to hope for it.
The story starts out with Rosalind, an extremely headstrong young woman, being dragged off to the palace and commanded to marry the prince, simply because her foot fits in the slipper from the ball the night before. There’s just one problem: she claims that she was NOT wearing the slipper at the ball, and that she only danced with Henry, one of the crown prince’s two younger brothers.
The crown prince is also unhappy with the arrangement, as he recognizes at once that Rosalind is not the woman he danced with. But the king is insistent: the shoe fits… so shall the crown. Although Marius and Rosalind hate each other on sight, they eventually form an alliance and concoct a scheme so that everyone can get what they want – Marius will end up with Evelyn (his cinder-girl), Henry and Rosalind will run away together, and everyone will live happily ever after.
Yet, despite the fact that their plan quite literally blows up in their faces… or perhaps because of it… each of these characters learns a valuable lesson about courage, strength, humility, and, yes, even true love.
Overall, I enjoyed this tale. It didn’t quite draw me in the way the first one did, but I enjoyed it. I liked the humorous banter between various characters, and I enjoyed the steampunk take on this classic fairy tale. I often found myself chuckling over various bits of witty humor that had been thrown into the mix (the fairy godmother’s father is a cart-builder… but who wants to buy horse-drawn carts now that steam-carriages are all the rage?) And I very much wanted to know how it was all going to end.
My only real complaint about the story is that it left rather a lot of questions unanswered. I would have liked to know more about Evelyn and her past. And I would have liked to know more about the kingdom, the world, as well as more about the magic and the role it plays in the grand scheme of things… So much was hinted at, but in such a short story, there isn’t much time to expound on those sorts of things.
I’d recommend this story to anyone who likes the steampunk genre, extremely real characters, and a truly despicable villain… or three!
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE
Oh good gracious, could a story be more fun or more darling? This completely different take on the beloved Cinderella story is part fairy tale, part Bronte-sisters, and part Shakespearian comedy. I absolutely fell in love with Rachel Heffington’s The Windy Side of Care and third tale in the Five Glass Slippers compilation.
Alisandra Carlisle is convinced she is the rightful heir to the throne. She needs look no further than her own face, which is the mirror-image of the King’s. That, along with the fact that there is no record of anyone by her father’s ridiculous name ever being born or dying in the entire country, makes it plain to her that she was somehow switched at birth with the current prince. However, hidden away as a lowly scullery maid in the home of her supposed step-family, how can Alis hope to gain allies and take back her throne from the usurper?
Prince Auguste wants to be king about as much as Alis wants to be a scullery maid for the rest of her life. His birthday and Day of Accession loom over him like a monstrous shadow of doom… and worse than all that, his parents are insisting that he find a bride. As if a person can fall in love just like that!
When Prince Auguste and Alis have an unlikely encounter, they are both surprised and intrigued. Alis has always thought of the prince as the mastermind usurper of her throne, but when she meets him, she is forced to admit that he is as much a victim as she. They were only babies when this injustice occurred, after all. And she cannot deny that as a man he is noble, kind, humble, and has a sense of humor as sharp as her own.
But this new realization sparks feelings that couldn’t, couldn’t possibly be… love… could they?
I don’t want to say any more, because I really don’t want to give away any of the delightful surprises that are in store for anyone who hasn’t read this tale yet. To say that I enjoyed this story would be an understatement of vast proportions. It moves quickly, has engaging characters that I wanted all the best for, and an ending as surprising and neat as any Shakespearian comedy ought to have. The twists and turns throughout kept me intrigued and reading to find out what happens next. The dialogue had me chuckling, and even reading out loud to myself – which is high praise, indeed. I’m enough of a Shakespeare buff to know that certain things were not going to work out the way the characters planned, but that only sweetened the surprising way the author wrapped everything up.
I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who likes Shakespeare, Pride and Prejudice, or the movie Ever After.
A CINDER'S TALE
Cinderella… in space? From the moment I heard about this one, I was skeptical. I love a good sci-fi as much as any nerd (though I do prefer watching it to reading it, most of the time), but it just seemed a bit too far-fetched to be believable.
However, Stephanie Ricker makes it work in A Cinder’s Tale, the fourth story in the Five Glass Slippers collection. And she makes it work rather beautifully.
Elsa is a Cinder: a space miner working for Tremain Station helping collect a valuable ore called cendrillon from a dangerous and somewhat unstable gas giant. Although it’s not her dream job, it pays the bills and she is fairly happy in this life with her tight-knit crew. And if her job doesn’t have much variation, at least the danger makes it exciting. And at least the war is over.
When the massive ship, Sovereign, docks at Tremain Station for fuel before beginning its journey of exploration for the next year, everyone is excited about getting to meet the much-decorated war-hero captain and his son. And when it is discovered that there will be a formal celebration complete with music and dancing, the excitement cannot be contained.
But when disaster strikes in the middle of the party, Elsa and her crew must face a difficult choice: obey orders and perish trying to save the Station, or disobey and save lives while sacrificing everything else?
This is such a well-told story, and I can imagine all sorts of other adventures just waiting to be told about these characters and this universe. The “Cinderella” aspects of the story were far more subtle than in the first three tales, and therefore reading the story was also a bit like going on a scavenger hunt… but the elements were all there. From fairy-godmother to wicked stepmother to a lost glass… helmet… this could not be mistaken for anything but a Cinderella story, and yet, it was also quite solidly a wonderful sci-fi tale all on its own as well.
I also enjoyed the (perhaps completely unintentional, because this story was most likely written before the movie came to theaters) nod to another fairy tale story, as Elsa is from the planet of Anser, which is extremely cold and wintry most of the time. When talking about her family she says that her father was, “a glacial geologist; he loved Anser because of – not in spite of – the cold and the snow.” You know me and my penchant for cold weather, Winter, and snow, so I loved that line all on its own… and then, later, when I sat down to write this review and reflected on the fact that the story was about a girl named Elsa who hailed from a snowy planet… well… I also love cross-over references, even unintentional ones. (I wish I was having this author over during the Blog Tour, because that is definitely the question I would ask her). C’est la vie. Maybe some other blogger will ask it.
Overall, I just loved this story!
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL
Unlike everyone else she knows, Tilly has been terrified of Bromley’s Circus since she had a bad experience there as a child. This year, however, kind Lord Hollingberry, the man who took her in when her parents died and has given her employment, food, and a place to live for the past two years, has asked her to take a message into the heart of the big tent. Despite her fear, Tilly’s love and admiration for the elderly gentleman who has practically adopted her prompts her to venture into the heart of her darkest nightmare.
But there is more going on than Tilly could ever imagine, and there is more at stake than the simple delivery of a message. Is Tilly prepared to face her nightmares come to life? Can she stand strong in the face of her fear and demonstrate the courage necessary to save not just her own life, but that of another she barely knows? Will the presence of magic in her world, a presence she has always doubted, give her the strength she needs, or shatter her completely?
The Moon Master’s Ball is a dark, haunting, creepy tale that reeled me in immediately and kept me enthralled until the last page. Of all the stories, this one definitely deviates the most from the classic Cinderella story (even more than the sci-fi one!), and I actually, truly forgot that I was reading a Cinderella re-telling until chapter 13 (out of 14 overall chapters). To some extent, I think my only complaint would be that the “Cinderella” elements felt a teeny tiny bit like they’d been shoe-horned into the story in the eleventh hour – but on the whole even that minor distraction didn’t detract from the enjoyment of the tale.
I liked the way this story twisted around and the sense of something evil and sinister watching from the darkness of the shadows. I liked the characters, which were well-developed and engaging. I also felt that the story was paced quite well – it didn’t move too quickly, but there was plenty of excitement throughout, so it never felt too slow either.
If you enjoy a shiver running up your spine, shape-shifting rats, or mysterious circuses that could be either enchanting or sinister – depending on how you look at them – then you will love The Moon Master’s Ball.
WHAT EYES CAN SEE
What happens when Cinderella is so painfully shy that she cannot bear the idea of attending a royal ball?
What Eyes Can See is a truly sweet re-telling of the classic Cinderella story, with a few little surprising twists. Arella, the main character of the story does indeed live with her stepfamily, none of whom are evil. The stepmother is doing her best to raise her three daughters and introduce them into society. The story actually felt a little tiny bit like Pride and Prejudice or Sense and Sensibility. Though the three sisters are all very different, they get along fairly well. Drusilla, the oldest, is kind and wise and a good listener. Anastasia reminded me a lot of Lydia from Pride and Prejudice, just a bubbling ball of energy and enthusiasm – and a whimsical wish for more romance in her life…
Arella, on the other hand, is extremely, painfully shy. She has no use for the latest fashions, and the idea of a royal ball terrifies her. However, when her family is invited to the prince’s ball, Arella reluctantly agrees to go… as long as she is allowed to leave at midnight… because she has no wish to dishonor her family in any way. I’m going to stop there, because I really don’t want to give anything more away. “Spoilers!” :)
I really enjoyed this tale. I loved the characters, hoped that everything would end the way I wanted it to, and yes, even shed a tear or two at the last line. Although there was no fairy godmother, no pumpkin, and no wicked stepmother, this tale was decidedly recognizable as a Cinderella story, and I loved it for its differences. And although no magic made an appearance, the story itself was quite magical.
I will be keeping an eye out for more by this author.
BROKEN GLASS
Could two stories be more different? Broken Glass by Emma Clifton, the second story in the compilation Five Glass Slippers, is practically the exact opposite of What Eyes Can See. While the first story really doesn’t have much of a villain, the second has them lurking around every corner. Evil stepmothers, stubborn kings, unkind cinder-factory managers, conniving younger brothers, rather misguided fairy godmothers… and even the heroes are often lacking in many of the more noble qualities.
Practically every character is detestable in some way (but I don’t mean that as a criticism of the story, it’s what makes this tale work!) Usually, I’m not a huge fan of stories where there’s nobody to root for, and yet, there are just enough redeemable qualities about these characters that I was able to hope for redemption and a happy ending. Now, whether or not there IS redemption or a happy ending, I’m not going to tell – just that I was able to hope for it.
The story starts out with Rosalind, an extremely headstrong young woman, being dragged off to the palace and commanded to marry the prince, simply because her foot fits in the slipper from the ball the night before. There’s just one problem: she claims that she was NOT wearing the slipper at the ball, and that she only danced with Henry, one of the crown prince’s two younger brothers.
The crown prince is also unhappy with the arrangement, as he recognizes at once that Rosalind is not the woman he danced with. But the king is insistent: the shoe fits… so shall the crown. Although Marius and Rosalind hate each other on sight, they eventually form an alliance and concoct a scheme so that everyone can get what they want – Marius will end up with Evelyn (his cinder-girl), Henry and Rosalind will run away together, and everyone will live happily ever after.
Yet, despite the fact that their plan quite literally blows up in their faces… or perhaps because of it… each of these characters learns a valuable lesson about courage, strength, humility, and, yes, even true love.
Overall, I enjoyed this tale. It didn’t quite draw me in the way the first one did, but I enjoyed it. I liked the humorous banter between various characters, and I enjoyed the steampunk take on this classic fairy tale. I often found myself chuckling over various bits of witty humor that had been thrown into the mix (the fairy godmother’s father is a cart-builder… but who wants to buy horse-drawn carts now that steam-carriages are all the rage?) And I very much wanted to know how it was all going to end.
My only real complaint about the story is that it left rather a lot of questions unanswered. I would have liked to know more about Evelyn and her past. And I would have liked to know more about the kingdom, the world, as well as more about the magic and the role it plays in the grand scheme of things… So much was hinted at, but in such a short story, there isn’t much time to expound on those sorts of things.
I’d recommend this story to anyone who likes the steampunk genre, extremely real characters, and a truly despicable villain… or three!
THE WINDY SIDE OF CARE
Oh good gracious, could a story be more fun or more darling? This completely different take on the beloved Cinderella story is part fairy tale, part Bronte-sisters, and part Shakespearian comedy. I absolutely fell in love with Rachel Heffington’s The Windy Side of Care and third tale in the Five Glass Slippers compilation.
Alisandra Carlisle is convinced she is the rightful heir to the throne. She needs look no further than her own face, which is the mirror-image of the King’s. That, along with the fact that there is no record of anyone by her father’s ridiculous name ever being born or dying in the entire country, makes it plain to her that she was somehow switched at birth with the current prince. However, hidden away as a lowly scullery maid in the home of her supposed step-family, how can Alis hope to gain allies and take back her throne from the usurper?
Prince Auguste wants to be king about as much as Alis wants to be a scullery maid for the rest of her life. His birthday and Day of Accession loom over him like a monstrous shadow of doom… and worse than all that, his parents are insisting that he find a bride. As if a person can fall in love just like that!
When Prince Auguste and Alis have an unlikely encounter, they are both surprised and intrigued. Alis has always thought of the prince as the mastermind usurper of her throne, but when she meets him, she is forced to admit that he is as much a victim as she. They were only babies when this injustice occurred, after all. And she cannot deny that as a man he is noble, kind, humble, and has a sense of humor as sharp as her own.
But this new realization sparks feelings that couldn’t, couldn’t possibly be… love… could they?
I don’t want to say any more, because I really don’t want to give away any of the delightful surprises that are in store for anyone who hasn’t read this tale yet. To say that I enjoyed this story would be an understatement of vast proportions. It moves quickly, has engaging characters that I wanted all the best for, and an ending as surprising and neat as any Shakespearian comedy ought to have. The twists and turns throughout kept me intrigued and reading to find out what happens next. The dialogue had me chuckling, and even reading out loud to myself – which is high praise, indeed. I’m enough of a Shakespeare buff to know that certain things were not going to work out the way the characters planned, but that only sweetened the surprising way the author wrapped everything up.
I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who likes Shakespeare, Pride and Prejudice, or the movie Ever After.
A CINDER'S TALE
Cinderella… in space? From the moment I heard about this one, I was skeptical. I love a good sci-fi as much as any nerd (though I do prefer watching it to reading it, most of the time), but it just seemed a bit too far-fetched to be believable.
However, Stephanie Ricker makes it work in A Cinder’s Tale, the fourth story in the Five Glass Slippers collection. And she makes it work rather beautifully.
Elsa is a Cinder: a space miner working for Tremain Station helping collect a valuable ore called cendrillon from a dangerous and somewhat unstable gas giant. Although it’s not her dream job, it pays the bills and she is fairly happy in this life with her tight-knit crew. And if her job doesn’t have much variation, at least the danger makes it exciting. And at least the war is over.
When the massive ship, Sovereign, docks at Tremain Station for fuel before beginning its journey of exploration for the next year, everyone is excited about getting to meet the much-decorated war-hero captain and his son. And when it is discovered that there will be a formal celebration complete with music and dancing, the excitement cannot be contained.
But when disaster strikes in the middle of the party, Elsa and her crew must face a difficult choice: obey orders and perish trying to save the Station, or disobey and save lives while sacrificing everything else?
This is such a well-told story, and I can imagine all sorts of other adventures just waiting to be told about these characters and this universe. The “Cinderella” aspects of the story were far more subtle than in the first three tales, and therefore reading the story was also a bit like going on a scavenger hunt… but the elements were all there. From fairy-godmother to wicked stepmother to a lost glass… helmet… this could not be mistaken for anything but a Cinderella story, and yet, it was also quite solidly a wonderful sci-fi tale all on its own as well.
I also enjoyed the (perhaps completely unintentional, because this story was most likely written before the movie came to theaters) nod to another fairy tale story, as Elsa is from the planet of Anser, which is extremely cold and wintry most of the time. When talking about her family she says that her father was, “a glacial geologist; he loved Anser because of – not in spite of – the cold and the snow.” You know me and my penchant for cold weather, Winter, and snow, so I loved that line all on its own… and then, later, when I sat down to write this review and reflected on the fact that the story was about a girl named Elsa who hailed from a snowy planet… well… I also love cross-over references, even unintentional ones. (I wish I was having this author over during the Blog Tour, because that is definitely the question I would ask her). C’est la vie. Maybe some other blogger will ask it.
Overall, I just loved this story!
THE MOON MASTER'S BALL
Unlike everyone else she knows, Tilly has been terrified of Bromley’s Circus since she had a bad experience there as a child. This year, however, kind Lord Hollingberry, the man who took her in when her parents died and has given her employment, food, and a place to live for the past two years, has asked her to take a message into the heart of the big tent. Despite her fear, Tilly’s love and admiration for the elderly gentleman who has practically adopted her prompts her to venture into the heart of her darkest nightmare.
But there is more going on than Tilly could ever imagine, and there is more at stake than the simple delivery of a message. Is Tilly prepared to face her nightmares come to life? Can she stand strong in the face of her fear and demonstrate the courage necessary to save not just her own life, but that of another she barely knows? Will the presence of magic in her world, a presence she has always doubted, give her the strength she needs, or shatter her completely?
The Moon Master’s Ball is a dark, haunting, creepy tale that reeled me in immediately and kept me enthralled until the last page. Of all the stories, this one definitely deviates the most from the classic Cinderella story (even more than the sci-fi one!), and I actually, truly forgot that I was reading a Cinderella re-telling until chapter 13 (out of 14 overall chapters). To some extent, I think my only complaint would be that the “Cinderella” elements felt a teeny tiny bit like they’d been shoe-horned into the story in the eleventh hour – but on the whole even that minor distraction didn’t detract from the enjoyment of the tale.
I liked the way this story twisted around and the sense of something evil and sinister watching from the darkness of the shadows. I liked the characters, which were well-developed and engaging. I also felt that the story was paced quite well – it didn’t move too quickly, but there was plenty of excitement throughout, so it never felt too slow either.
If you enjoy a shiver running up your spine, shape-shifting rats, or mysterious circuses that could be either enchanting or sinister – depending on how you look at them – then you will love The Moon Master’s Ball.
October 17, 2018
I have a tendency to stay away from anthologies and short stories because you never know what you're going to get. But I rather liked the idea of five different retellings of the same classic tale, and I was promised a dark, circus-themed retelling at the end, (forever my weakness) so I picked it up.
As always, in an anthology, you get a bit of a mixed bag.
The first story, What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown, was, in my opinion, the weakest. Out of the five, this one stays true to the sugary sweet tone of the original tale the most-- even with its interesting twist of the step-family being quite kind and supportive to Arella, and a stepsister being the main heroine. Everyone-- but particularly the prince, in a most unattractive way-- comes off quite clueless, and the tone is a bit childish. Two stars.
I enjoyed Broken Glass by Emma Clifton much better. This one has a bit of a twist on the initial angle of the tale-- Rosalind (our Cinderella) is mistaken for the woman that the prince is smitten with, and neither of them have any desire to marry each other... at first. It's funny and different, even if it's a tad predictable. And the epilogue sets up the beginning of another fairy tale, which brings my nerdy heart joy. Four stars.
My favorite retelling was The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington. This one was a hilariously clever twist on the tale where the Cinderella character is actually secretly the true heir to the throne, and is plotting to retake the throne from the impostor prince. Which is easier said than done once she realizes that he's kind and good and... she loves him? Also this one has a fairy godfather and he's wonderfully snarky and fabulous. Five stars.
A Cinder's Tale by Stephanie Ricker was a fantastic sci-fi spin on the tale (nothing like Marissa Meyer's Cinder). The pacing was good, worldbuilding was solid and the friendships were prime. The prince becomes Karl, a worlds-renowned space explorer, and Elsa, our Cinderella, an ore miner. The "ball" is a station-wide party thrown for Karl and his famous father when they arrive to refuel. The characters were the best part about this one-- Elsa's friends and crew-- and what drove the story. Four stars.
Lastly, my most anticipated-- The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Diane Thompson. I was so ready to love this one. Give me dark circuses set in October and mysterious, cursed magicians any day... but this story was far too vague to keep me following. The main character-- and by extension, the reader-- didn't have a clue what was going on for 3/4 of the story. Such potential. Three stars.
Overall a pretty solid anthology-- maybe I'll try another.
As always, in an anthology, you get a bit of a mixed bag.
The first story, What Eyes Can See by Elisabeth Brown, was, in my opinion, the weakest. Out of the five, this one stays true to the sugary sweet tone of the original tale the most-- even with its interesting twist of the step-family being quite kind and supportive to Arella, and a stepsister being the main heroine. Everyone-- but particularly the prince, in a most unattractive way-- comes off quite clueless, and the tone is a bit childish. Two stars.
I enjoyed Broken Glass by Emma Clifton much better. This one has a bit of a twist on the initial angle of the tale-- Rosalind (our Cinderella) is mistaken for the woman that the prince is smitten with, and neither of them have any desire to marry each other... at first. It's funny and different, even if it's a tad predictable. And the epilogue sets up the beginning of another fairy tale, which brings my nerdy heart joy. Four stars.
My favorite retelling was The Windy Side of Care by Rachel Heffington. This one was a hilariously clever twist on the tale where the Cinderella character is actually secretly the true heir to the throne, and is plotting to retake the throne from the impostor prince. Which is easier said than done once she realizes that he's kind and good and... she loves him? Also this one has a fairy godfather and he's wonderfully snarky and fabulous. Five stars.
A Cinder's Tale by Stephanie Ricker was a fantastic sci-fi spin on the tale (nothing like Marissa Meyer's Cinder). The pacing was good, worldbuilding was solid and the friendships were prime. The prince becomes Karl, a worlds-renowned space explorer, and Elsa, our Cinderella, an ore miner. The "ball" is a station-wide party thrown for Karl and his famous father when they arrive to refuel. The characters were the best part about this one-- Elsa's friends and crew-- and what drove the story. Four stars.
Lastly, my most anticipated-- The Moon Master's Ball by Clara Diane Thompson. I was so ready to love this one. Give me dark circuses set in October and mysterious, cursed magicians any day... but this story was far too vague to keep me following. The main character-- and by extension, the reader-- didn't have a clue what was going on for 3/4 of the story. Such potential. Three stars.
Overall a pretty solid anthology-- maybe I'll try another.
December 7, 2015
Five Glass Slippers is a collection of short stories all themed around Cinderella. . Each story differs from the other ones, but contains the core elements of a Cinderella story: a girl, a generous benefactor or fairy godmother, glass slippers, a ball, and a prince.
Of the five stories, I really enjoyed two: “A Cinder’s Tale” and “The Moon Master’s Ball”, In a Cinder’s Tale, Elsa is a space miner, mining cendrillon from a gas giant. She’s been a miner for years for the high pay and the ability to see the galaxy. She’s also found her little family among the other Cinders, as the miners are known. She’s happy, and befriends a fay woman, who loans her a beautiful dress (and glass slippers) for a ball. There, she meets the son of one of the most famous space explorers known, and they hit it off.
I enjoyed this one a lot because it was completely different from all the other stories. The rest are largely Regency era stories, with carriages and serving maids, and this one’s all modern and fun. Elsa is content with her life, with the family she’s made with the other miners. The world she’s in is interesting, yet still relatable (the miners have pasta for dinner). The “prince” in this story is a down to earth guy who happens to be related to someone famous. The big event that risks tearing Elsa’s world apart is believable, within the context of the world. So I really enjoyed this story.
I didn’t know if I’d like the Moon Master’s Ball when I started reading it. It’s one of those Regency era stories, where Tilly works as a maid for Lord Hollingberry, who was kind enough to take her in when her parents died. At the start of the story, a new head housekeeper has been brought in, and Tilly’s upset about it. Turns out her upset is reasonable, as the head housekeeper is a nasty woman, and her daughter isn’t any better. They’re only in the house a day before an annual event happens: Bromley’s Circus. It appears out of nowhere and sticks around for a week every fall. And every fall, Tilly spends the week in her room, hiding away. She had a bad experience years before at the circus, and refuses to go.
All of that changes when Lord Hollingberry asks her to deliver a letter to the Moon Master. This sets a course of events in motion that changes many people’s lives. Tilly goes from being a timid maid to someone with a spine, and in the process, saves someone who’s stuck under a curse. There’s a decent mix of magic and realism that comes together for this story, which I enjoyed. The only drawback is the circus reminds me of the one in The Night Circus.
As to the other three stories, I could leave them, and not miss them. They’re ultimately what drags down my rating of the book (3 stars on Goodreads). The first story stays pretty close to the original tale’s events, except that everyone’s personalities are inverted. Arella lives with her stepmother and stepsisters, all of whom treat her nicely. She’s treated as a daughter in the household, not a drudge. But, she hates being the center of attention, and since she’s gorgeous, she often is. She’s taken to being a shut in to avoid attention. Of course, the prince is instantly smitten with her at the ball, and does everything he can to woo her into marrying him. Desperate to not be forced into marrying him, Arella concocts a plan to escape. Ultimately, she’s too whiny and too much of a doormat for me to sympathize, and the personality flip of Arella’s family is a bit much.
The second story is more fun than stories one and three, but not nearly as good as the last two. In it, Rosalind is being forced to marry the prince because some girl wore her shoes to a ball. Yeah, I know. The prince danced with this girl and adored her, and when she ran away, she left a shoe behind. The Prince ordered his servants to find the girl, and they bring him Rosalind, who is the owner of the shoe, but not the one he danced with. The girl he danced with is a cinder girl, one of the girls who stokes the fires in the factories to keep the machines running. It’s a sort of a steampunk world, with steam carriages and the like. The plot gets convoluted, as the Prince’s younger brothers are involved: one’s a schemer who wants the throne, the other is a doormat, and courting Rosalind. Add in a fake death, magic, and a fairy godmother, and it’s quite the plot in a small package.
I don’t know if the third story is my least favorite, or if it just ties with the first for that honour. In it, Alis is part of the traditional Cinderallas tale: dead father, evil stepmother, annoying stepsisters, spends her time as a serving girl. The twist is that she believes she’s the true daughter of the king and queen of the realm, and she was switched at birth with the boy who’s there now. She looks just like them, their son does not, and there’s no record of her father anywhere. She enlists other servants to help her prove the claim. She obtains a fairy godfather in the form of a Lord, and he is willing to help her prove her claims. What she didn’t count on is falling in love with the Prince. Once in love with him, the plot to fake his murder and run away, but things don’t go as planned. I didn’t like this one because Alis is an annoying character, all sharp tongue and no grace. And, she falls in love with the prince right off the bat. Seriously, she’s in love with him after the second meeting. I couldn’t suspend disbelief enough for that.
Of the five stories, I really enjoyed two: “A Cinder’s Tale” and “The Moon Master’s Ball”, In a Cinder’s Tale, Elsa is a space miner, mining cendrillon from a gas giant. She’s been a miner for years for the high pay and the ability to see the galaxy. She’s also found her little family among the other Cinders, as the miners are known. She’s happy, and befriends a fay woman, who loans her a beautiful dress (and glass slippers) for a ball. There, she meets the son of one of the most famous space explorers known, and they hit it off.
I enjoyed this one a lot because it was completely different from all the other stories. The rest are largely Regency era stories, with carriages and serving maids, and this one’s all modern and fun. Elsa is content with her life, with the family she’s made with the other miners. The world she’s in is interesting, yet still relatable (the miners have pasta for dinner). The “prince” in this story is a down to earth guy who happens to be related to someone famous. The big event that risks tearing Elsa’s world apart is believable, within the context of the world. So I really enjoyed this story.
I didn’t know if I’d like the Moon Master’s Ball when I started reading it. It’s one of those Regency era stories, where Tilly works as a maid for Lord Hollingberry, who was kind enough to take her in when her parents died. At the start of the story, a new head housekeeper has been brought in, and Tilly’s upset about it. Turns out her upset is reasonable, as the head housekeeper is a nasty woman, and her daughter isn’t any better. They’re only in the house a day before an annual event happens: Bromley’s Circus. It appears out of nowhere and sticks around for a week every fall. And every fall, Tilly spends the week in her room, hiding away. She had a bad experience years before at the circus, and refuses to go.
All of that changes when Lord Hollingberry asks her to deliver a letter to the Moon Master. This sets a course of events in motion that changes many people’s lives. Tilly goes from being a timid maid to someone with a spine, and in the process, saves someone who’s stuck under a curse. There’s a decent mix of magic and realism that comes together for this story, which I enjoyed. The only drawback is the circus reminds me of the one in The Night Circus.
As to the other three stories, I could leave them, and not miss them. They’re ultimately what drags down my rating of the book (3 stars on Goodreads). The first story stays pretty close to the original tale’s events, except that everyone’s personalities are inverted. Arella lives with her stepmother and stepsisters, all of whom treat her nicely. She’s treated as a daughter in the household, not a drudge. But, she hates being the center of attention, and since she’s gorgeous, she often is. She’s taken to being a shut in to avoid attention. Of course, the prince is instantly smitten with her at the ball, and does everything he can to woo her into marrying him. Desperate to not be forced into marrying him, Arella concocts a plan to escape. Ultimately, she’s too whiny and too much of a doormat for me to sympathize, and the personality flip of Arella’s family is a bit much.
The second story is more fun than stories one and three, but not nearly as good as the last two. In it, Rosalind is being forced to marry the prince because some girl wore her shoes to a ball. Yeah, I know. The prince danced with this girl and adored her, and when she ran away, she left a shoe behind. The Prince ordered his servants to find the girl, and they bring him Rosalind, who is the owner of the shoe, but not the one he danced with. The girl he danced with is a cinder girl, one of the girls who stokes the fires in the factories to keep the machines running. It’s a sort of a steampunk world, with steam carriages and the like. The plot gets convoluted, as the Prince’s younger brothers are involved: one’s a schemer who wants the throne, the other is a doormat, and courting Rosalind. Add in a fake death, magic, and a fairy godmother, and it’s quite the plot in a small package.
I don’t know if the third story is my least favorite, or if it just ties with the first for that honour. In it, Alis is part of the traditional Cinderallas tale: dead father, evil stepmother, annoying stepsisters, spends her time as a serving girl. The twist is that she believes she’s the true daughter of the king and queen of the realm, and she was switched at birth with the boy who’s there now. She looks just like them, their son does not, and there’s no record of her father anywhere. She enlists other servants to help her prove the claim. She obtains a fairy godfather in the form of a Lord, and he is willing to help her prove her claims. What she didn’t count on is falling in love with the Prince. Once in love with him, the plot to fake his murder and run away, but things don’t go as planned. I didn’t like this one because Alis is an annoying character, all sharp tongue and no grace. And, she falls in love with the prince right off the bat. Seriously, she’s in love with him after the second meeting. I couldn’t suspend disbelief enough for that.
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