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Gilded
"Wow, just wow. I look forward to reading more." - Sharlene Fielder
"Beautifully written." - Diva Fox
Retelling of the classic Cinderella story, with a gender reverse and old money aesthetic.
When a prestigious scholarship competition is announced by the renowned Lagen Institute for Music, Casimir sees an opportunity to be free from life within the Cruz Manor.
He finds an unexpected ally in Erik, who appears to be disengaged with everyone and only broods in the school music room.
As their bond deepens over their fervent passion for piano, dark secrets and unspoken burdens threaten to tear more than just Cas’ dream.
"Beautifully written." - Diva Fox
Retelling of the classic Cinderella story, with a gender reverse and old money aesthetic.
When a prestigious scholarship competition is announced by the renowned Lagen Institute for Music, Casimir sees an opportunity to be free from life within the Cruz Manor.
He finds an unexpected ally in Erik, who appears to be disengaged with everyone and only broods in the school music room.
As their bond deepens over their fervent passion for piano, dark secrets and unspoken burdens threaten to tear more than just Cas’ dream.
- GenresLGBT
132 pages, ebook
Published October 20, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 5, 2026
An Earnestly Heartfelt (Loose) Cinderella Retelling
This book was clearly written from the heart.
It's a Cinderella story in that the main character faces incredible adversity with acceptance and humility, though it differs quite a bit in its execution. Obviously There's the fact that the MC is male as is his "evil" step family, but there are more meaningful changes as well. Cas's "Prince Charming" isn't actually a person, but rather the coveted music scholarship to the prestigious academy that could change is life forever. He does have a love interest, and their chemistry feels genuine and wholesome, but this relationship is more of a support system that encourages him to seek more out of life and improve his chances for the true goal, which is the scholarship. Eric helps him feel more worthy of a bright future, and gives him something to hope for. His hesitance to believe he even deserves the scholarship and the secrecy in his performance makes it very clear that it represents his Prince Charming. Eric might be his fairy godmother in that he helps enable his steps to freedom, though not with the full context of his situation.
I will say the story left something to be desired. I know the original Cinderella's step family were very one-dimensional in their greed and antagonism of her, but I kept hoping for a bit more nuance with Cas's step father and step brothers. There was a hint that grief might play into some of their behavior, but not enough is explored to really make it feel real and less cartoonish.
The logic in the underlying tension also felt flawed. The reasoning behind the secrecy of Cas's circumstance does not hold up well to scrutiny, in my opinion. Perhaps if it took place in a more historical setting where societal expectations were much more antiquated and rigid, but the story is set in modern day when it just doesn't make sense for Cas and his family to think that keeping him as a secret slave in his own manor after the death of his mother is not only acceptable and reasonable but also that they would have a right to throw him on the streets, steal his inheritance, and not face any legal repercussions. The fact that it's just understood that Cas would supposedly be ostracized for being an orphan and that his family would only be praised for keeping him despite the fact that his step father married his mother and legally would have had custody when she died is absolutely absurd.
You could perhaps make an argument that Cas's perception of the world's expectation has been skewed by his years of constant abuse and oppression that rewires his brain in the way that trauma often does, however that doesn't explain why his entire step family shares the same worldview seemingly by default. Alexander seems to be borderline Psychopathic and at times even sadistic, so perhaps he knows the treatment is wrong and unjustified but enjoys inflicting it too much and even relishes in the perceived justification. Maybe Silas's grief over Cas's mother and warped views over her death have created a resentment of Cas that clouds his judgment, but he should absolutely know enough about the world from his own adult experience to know that the courts would never side with him were the truth to get out. Yet he acts as if nothing can touch him, and that he truly believes he is in the right. Again, maybe it's just delusion, but something about the writing makes it seem so unrealistic that I almost wish it was historical fiction so that my brain could wrap around the logic more.
When it all comes to a head, after so much build up of abuse and frustration and heartache, the resolution almost feels rushed and less thought-out. They way the truth was finally discovered felt off, like, how did you put the pieces together from this information alone? And how did the family get this justice with so little evidence when so much more evidence could have been gathered before? Maybe I missed something, but it felt like there might have been a better way to wrap thing up to a similar and more believable effect.
Having said all that, it was still a charming story, and Cas's strength of character and growing relationship with Eric was still compelling. If the book was longer, maybe my hang-ups would have been cared for. I'm also sure not every reader will be as cynical as I am in lately, so they might be able to more easily immerse in the world. Also, I do love how the sexuality of the boys is not really discussed. There's no threat of consequence about the discovery of the fact that they are gay. The are other reasons their relationship is kept secret, but the fact that it's boy love has nothing to do with it. I do love reading stories where all sexualities are normalized and even the villains don't really care what gender you are attracted to. They're evil, but not homophobic lol.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This book was clearly written from the heart.
It's a Cinderella story in that the main character faces incredible adversity with acceptance and humility, though it differs quite a bit in its execution. Obviously There's the fact that the MC is male as is his "evil" step family, but there are more meaningful changes as well. Cas's "Prince Charming" isn't actually a person, but rather the coveted music scholarship to the prestigious academy that could change is life forever. He does have a love interest, and their chemistry feels genuine and wholesome, but this relationship is more of a support system that encourages him to seek more out of life and improve his chances for the true goal, which is the scholarship. Eric helps him feel more worthy of a bright future, and gives him something to hope for. His hesitance to believe he even deserves the scholarship and the secrecy in his performance makes it very clear that it represents his Prince Charming. Eric might be his fairy godmother in that he helps enable his steps to freedom, though not with the full context of his situation.
I will say the story left something to be desired. I know the original Cinderella's step family were very one-dimensional in their greed and antagonism of her, but I kept hoping for a bit more nuance with Cas's step father and step brothers. There was a hint that grief might play into some of their behavior, but not enough is explored to really make it feel real and less cartoonish.
The logic in the underlying tension also felt flawed. The reasoning behind the secrecy of Cas's circumstance does not hold up well to scrutiny, in my opinion. Perhaps if it took place in a more historical setting where societal expectations were much more antiquated and rigid, but the story is set in modern day when it just doesn't make sense for Cas and his family to think that keeping him as a secret slave in his own manor after the death of his mother is not only acceptable and reasonable but also that they would have a right to throw him on the streets, steal his inheritance, and not face any legal repercussions. The fact that it's just understood that Cas would supposedly be ostracized for being an orphan and that his family would only be praised for keeping him despite the fact that his step father married his mother and legally would have had custody when she died is absolutely absurd.
You could perhaps make an argument that Cas's perception of the world's expectation has been skewed by his years of constant abuse and oppression that rewires his brain in the way that trauma often does, however that doesn't explain why his entire step family shares the same worldview seemingly by default. Alexander seems to be borderline Psychopathic and at times even sadistic, so perhaps he knows the treatment is wrong and unjustified but enjoys inflicting it too much and even relishes in the perceived justification. Maybe Silas's grief over Cas's mother and warped views over her death have created a resentment of Cas that clouds his judgment, but he should absolutely know enough about the world from his own adult experience to know that the courts would never side with him were the truth to get out. Yet he acts as if nothing can touch him, and that he truly believes he is in the right. Again, maybe it's just delusion, but something about the writing makes it seem so unrealistic that I almost wish it was historical fiction so that my brain could wrap around the logic more.
When it all comes to a head, after so much build up of abuse and frustration and heartache, the resolution almost feels rushed and less thought-out. They way the truth was finally discovered felt off, like, how did you put the pieces together from this information alone? And how did the family get this justice with so little evidence when so much more evidence could have been gathered before? Maybe I missed something, but it felt like there might have been a better way to wrap thing up to a similar and more believable effect.
Having said all that, it was still a charming story, and Cas's strength of character and growing relationship with Eric was still compelling. If the book was longer, maybe my hang-ups would have been cared for. I'm also sure not every reader will be as cynical as I am in lately, so they might be able to more easily immerse in the world. Also, I do love how the sexuality of the boys is not really discussed. There's no threat of consequence about the discovery of the fact that they are gay. The are other reasons their relationship is kept secret, but the fact that it's boy love has nothing to do with it. I do love reading stories where all sexualities are normalized and even the villains don't really care what gender you are attracted to. They're evil, but not homophobic lol.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
October 26, 2025
Gilded is a quiet story filled with angst, dreams, and a “simple” love. I think it’s one of the better retellings I have read - especially of Cinderella. You can’t help but feel for Cas and connect with him. Vicious does a great job of making you care. I’m definitely putting this author on my “read” list because I can’t wait to see what they come up with next.
“Thank you Author Vicious for providing this book for review consideration via Reedsy. All opinions are my own.”
“Thank you Author Vicious for providing this book for review consideration via Reedsy. All opinions are my own.”
December 25, 2025
I will admit that I went into this with quite high expectations, so that may be why I seem to have not enjoyed this book as much as other reviewers. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy the book at all, of course, as my rating shows.
For starters, I do think the romance worked. There’s actually a reason for Cas to fall for Erik in regards to their shared piano love, and the way they meet is realistic in the context of the story. A few scenes between them feel a little rushed, but I do think this is one of the better romances I’ve read. I also love the LGBTQ representation and how natural it felt, at no point seeming to just have been shoved in for diversity points.
I will also say that the story is creative, despite being a Cinderella retelling. A lot of aspects feel unique enough to stand out, without being so unusual as to completely ignore the original roots. I do think some aspects of the abuse are realistic, and I did enjoy exploring the depth to Jonah’s personality. Alexander, admittedly, felt extremely one-dimensional, and Silas could have been developed better in order to fully appreciate them as the supposed villains. If this book had been longer, everything could have been fleshed out more.
Unfortunately, I really did not like the writing style. I’ve been some reviews refer to the writing as being quite beautiful, but I think it’s closer to purple prose. The language is flowery without needing to be, making it awkward to read. There are a multitude of metaphors and similes that just don’t make sense, and I felt myself wincing throughout at the odd choices made. It’s a shame, because I truly believe this book could have been brilliant with better writing and more fleshing out.
Overall, Gilded isn’t a bad book by any means, but it did disappoint me. Still, if you like unique fairytale retellings, give this a go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
For starters, I do think the romance worked. There’s actually a reason for Cas to fall for Erik in regards to their shared piano love, and the way they meet is realistic in the context of the story. A few scenes between them feel a little rushed, but I do think this is one of the better romances I’ve read. I also love the LGBTQ representation and how natural it felt, at no point seeming to just have been shoved in for diversity points.
I will also say that the story is creative, despite being a Cinderella retelling. A lot of aspects feel unique enough to stand out, without being so unusual as to completely ignore the original roots. I do think some aspects of the abuse are realistic, and I did enjoy exploring the depth to Jonah’s personality. Alexander, admittedly, felt extremely one-dimensional, and Silas could have been developed better in order to fully appreciate them as the supposed villains. If this book had been longer, everything could have been fleshed out more.
Unfortunately, I really did not like the writing style. I’ve been some reviews refer to the writing as being quite beautiful, but I think it’s closer to purple prose. The language is flowery without needing to be, making it awkward to read. There are a multitude of metaphors and similes that just don’t make sense, and I felt myself wincing throughout at the odd choices made. It’s a shame, because I truly believe this book could have been brilliant with better writing and more fleshing out.
Overall, Gilded isn’t a bad book by any means, but it did disappoint me. Still, if you like unique fairytale retellings, give this a go.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2025
Gilded is the kind of book that sinks into you quietly and then refuses to let go. From the very first pages, the atmosphere feels heavy with emotion—beautiful, haunting, and raw in a way that makes every chapter feel intentional. The writing itself is lush without being overdone, and there’s a constant undercurrent of tension that kept me turning pages long past when I should’ve stopped.
What truly stood out to me was the emotional depth. This story doesn’t shy away from pain, ambition, or vulnerability—it leans into them. You feel the weight of the characters’ choices, the cracks beneath their polished exteriors, and the way their pasts shape every decision they make. There were moments that genuinely hurt to read, not because they were dramatic, but because they felt real.
The themes of power, identity, and desire are handled with so much care. Nothing feels shallow or rushed. Every interaction has meaning, every silence speaks volumes, and the character development is incredibly satisfying. Watching the characters evolve—sometimes beautifully, sometimes painfully—was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
By the end, I just sat there for a moment, staring at the pages, trying to process everything I felt. Gilded isn’t just a story you read; it’s an experience you carry with you afterward. Elegant, intense, and unforgettable—this book absolutely deserves five stars and a permanent place on my shelf. 💛📖✨
What truly stood out to me was the emotional depth. This story doesn’t shy away from pain, ambition, or vulnerability—it leans into them. You feel the weight of the characters’ choices, the cracks beneath their polished exteriors, and the way their pasts shape every decision they make. There were moments that genuinely hurt to read, not because they were dramatic, but because they felt real.
The themes of power, identity, and desire are handled with so much care. Nothing feels shallow or rushed. Every interaction has meaning, every silence speaks volumes, and the character development is incredibly satisfying. Watching the characters evolve—sometimes beautifully, sometimes painfully—was one of the most rewarding parts of the book.
By the end, I just sat there for a moment, staring at the pages, trying to process everything I felt. Gilded isn’t just a story you read; it’s an experience you carry with you afterward. Elegant, intense, and unforgettable—this book absolutely deserves five stars and a permanent place on my shelf. 💛📖✨
January 11, 2026
I’m always a bit suspicious of retellings of traditional fairy-tales but, from the opening chapter, found this one totally engaging and convincing. The developing relationship between Cas and Erik was beautifully captured and at no point did I feel that its LGBTQ representation was there to tick a ‘diversity box’. The author’s sensitive portrayals of these two main characters evoked powerful feelings of caring about what was happening to them, of wanting their relationship to grow and develop through their shared love of music, rather than be damaged by envy, prejudice and secrecy. The strength of my liking for Cas and Erik was matched equally by my dislike of Silas, Alexander and Jonah, rendered not as ‘pantomime-like’ villains, but all too recognisable as abusive, bullying people who were prepared to exploit someone who threatened their sense of entitlement. Reading about the misery of Cas’s life at home, and the physical and emotional abuse he was experiencing, felt almost unbearable at times because the author so evocatively captured the tension between his fear and despair and his hopes for a better future.
A very creative retelling of a familiar story, but with a haunting, emotional depth which left me feeling that this is a story which will linger in my memory.
With thanks to the author (via LibraryThing) for my free copy in exchange fro an honest review ... I’m delighted it can be such a positive one!
A very creative retelling of a familiar story, but with a haunting, emotional depth which left me feeling that this is a story which will linger in my memory.
With thanks to the author (via LibraryThing) for my free copy in exchange fro an honest review ... I’m delighted it can be such a positive one!
May 25, 2026
A short and sweet queer cinderella retelling. While I think the romance was really sweet, the buildup was completely absent. There was no indication of previous attraction before they kissed, and it left me confused.
I also think there wasn't enough warning for the abuse aspects of this book. Despite it being a cinderella retelling, which historically comes with a heaping side of abuse, it felt like most of the book was detailing the bad things. The resolution also could have been a little longer. It felt kind of abrupt and rushed.
Cas and Erik's dynamics was, in fact, very cute though. That was my favorite part of this book (which adds to my wish for there to be more expansion on happy fluff of them together).
January 9, 2026
A very heartfelt story about two boys in love with each other and piano.
This short story broke my heart and then made it whole again, Cas is a sweetheart that suffers in the hands of his cruel family, he just wants to be loved and play the piano like his mother. Erik is a rich kid with a bit of bad boy vibes that falls in love with Cas and wants to help him achieve his dream.
This was beautifully written and even though it's small, it conveys a lot of emotions.
I want to thank the author for reaching out and sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This short story broke my heart and then made it whole again, Cas is a sweetheart that suffers in the hands of his cruel family, he just wants to be loved and play the piano like his mother. Erik is a rich kid with a bit of bad boy vibes that falls in love with Cas and wants to help him achieve his dream.
This was beautifully written and even though it's small, it conveys a lot of emotions.
I want to thank the author for reaching out and sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2026
Gilded is a beautifully crafted, emotionally resonant retelling of Cinderella with a gender-reverse twist and a lush, old-money aesthetic. vicious skillfully weaves romance, ambition, and music into a story that feels intimate yet compelling. Casimir and Erik’s bond develops naturally, fueled by shared passion for piano and tempered by dark secrets and personal struggles. The narrative balances tension, emotion, and aesthetic elegance, creating a short yet powerful LGBTQ romance that lingers in the reader’s mind long after the final page.
November 13, 2025
Was priviliged to receive a free ebook copy in exchange for a review.
Honestly Gilded is one of the most unique Cinderella retellings I've read. As a BL obsessed individual, maybe I'm biased??? It's a refreshing take with dark undertones compared to other variations - Disney, Grimm, A Little Princess movie, Shojoko Seira etc.
It's on the shorter side, and I can't wait to see what the author writes in future.
Honestly Gilded is one of the most unique Cinderella retellings I've read. As a BL obsessed individual, maybe I'm biased??? It's a refreshing take with dark undertones compared to other variations - Disney, Grimm, A Little Princess movie, Shojoko Seira etc.
It's on the shorter side, and I can't wait to see what the author writes in future.
January 15, 2026
I received a copy of this book from LibraryThing.
I enjoyed the story and the romance in this book very much, but it felt very rushed. The ending felt like it happened so suddenly. Cas and Erik were amazing, they made me smile. I love stories about music, and this did not disappoint on that front! At times the writing felt awkward, but mostly it was just written in a style that isn't for me.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a calmer story. It was a quick read due to the length.
I enjoyed the story and the romance in this book very much, but it felt very rushed. The ending felt like it happened so suddenly. Cas and Erik were amazing, they made me smile. I love stories about music, and this did not disappoint on that front! At times the writing felt awkward, but mostly it was just written in a style that isn't for me.
I would recommend this to anyone who likes a calmer story. It was a quick read due to the length.
December 4, 2025
Guilded was incredible. The language in this book was elegant and addictive. I read the whole thing in one sitting, unable to put it down.
The author had me smiling at the heartwarming moments and seething with anger in the others. The characters were so well written that you were rooting for them and wishing that they got their happy ever after from the very beginning.
The author had me smiling at the heartwarming moments and seething with anger in the others. The characters were so well written that you were rooting for them and wishing that they got their happy ever after from the very beginning.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews