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Flipped Fairy Tales #2
The Stillness of the Sky
Once upon a time, my life was certain: it was insignificant, and it was cruel. But I refused to let it define me, no matter how great the cost.
Once upon a time, I made a wish. The world I knew grew wider than the sky and higher than the stars, and I listened to the voice within me, reaching out for freedom.
Once upon a time, my wish became my fate, and my destiny the hardest lesson to learn: kindness may be the most difficult path, but it can save entire kingdoms.
Once upon a time, I made a wish. The world I knew grew wider than the sky and higher than the stars, and I listened to the voice within me, reaching out for freedom.
Once upon a time, my wish became my fate, and my destiny the hardest lesson to learn: kindness may be the most difficult path, but it can save entire kingdoms.
322 pages, Paperback
First published January 7, 2015
12 people are currently reading
1218 people want to read
About the author
Starla Huchton
42 books201 followersA geek of all trades, Starla Huchton has been crafting stories in various genres since 2007. She is a three-time finalist for Parsec Awards for her podcast fiction work, and was the first place winner for Science Fiction & Fantasy in the Sandy competition in 2012. Her work spans science fiction, fantasy, New Adult Romance, Young Adult titles, Steampunk, Contemporary, and various other varieties of stories. She is greedy and likes all the genres!
When not writing, Starla designs book covers for independent authors and publishers at DesignedByStarla.com, and also provides audiobook narration for authors such as Kevin J. Anderson, Lindsay Buroker, and many more.
When not writing, Starla designs book covers for independent authors and publishers at DesignedByStarla.com, and also provides audiobook narration for authors such as Kevin J. Anderson, Lindsay Buroker, and many more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 8, 2015
"I suppose the greatest journeys always bring us a little pain at least."
Well, she did it again. Starla Huchton took me on an adventure of a lifetime and I'm not ready to come back down from the clouds just yet. She took a well-known story and twisted it into something that hasn't been done before.
Jacqueline, or Jack, hasn't been dealt an easy life. Her mother left, leaving her to live with a drunk, abusive father. She's wondered ever since then why her mother, the one person in the world who loved her, walked away from her. Realizing her life is in danger if she stays at home, she sets out to start a new life. What she didn't realize was that it would be the start of an incredible journey that would change her life forever.
?"Remember who you are- history, parents, talents aside. Who you are is in your heart, regardless of anything else."
Along the way, she meets new friends, including a lovable crow named Ro, and a mysterious tree that will set the course of her destiny. As with any good story, she will encounter enemies, but she will also come to know love and the strength to overcome the greatest obstacles. Starla has woven a rich tale of bravery and the importance of kindness. This book will take you away to a magical place where giants and large birds are the norm. If you're looking to get lost from reality, this is the book for you.
"You haunt my dreams, Jack. I thought, if I could learn about you, I might be able to sleep without your voice echoing in my ears at night."
Well, she did it again. Starla Huchton took me on an adventure of a lifetime and I'm not ready to come back down from the clouds just yet. She took a well-known story and twisted it into something that hasn't been done before.
Jacqueline, or Jack, hasn't been dealt an easy life. Her mother left, leaving her to live with a drunk, abusive father. She's wondered ever since then why her mother, the one person in the world who loved her, walked away from her. Realizing her life is in danger if she stays at home, she sets out to start a new life. What she didn't realize was that it would be the start of an incredible journey that would change her life forever.
?"Remember who you are- history, parents, talents aside. Who you are is in your heart, regardless of anything else."
Along the way, she meets new friends, including a lovable crow named Ro, and a mysterious tree that will set the course of her destiny. As with any good story, she will encounter enemies, but she will also come to know love and the strength to overcome the greatest obstacles. Starla has woven a rich tale of bravery and the importance of kindness. This book will take you away to a magical place where giants and large birds are the norm. If you're looking to get lost from reality, this is the book for you.
"You haunt my dreams, Jack. I thought, if I could learn about you, I might be able to sleep without your voice echoing in my ears at night."
February 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book for my stop on the blog tour at Donnie Darko Girl.
The Stillness of the Sky is a gender flipped take on "Jack and the Beanstalk" with originality. I ADORE Starla's Evolution series and her other gender flipped fairy tale, Shadows on Snow. I not only wish I had thought about this, too, but also wish for her to gender flip everything! XD
In this rendition, Jack is short for Jacqueline. Jack's mother is tired of dealing with her father so she tries to convince Jack to leave with her. Jack chooses to stay with her alcoholic father because she worries he won't be able to take care of himself. He's abusive to her and one day orders her to sell their cows to cover his debt. On her way to town, she stops to rest, falls asleep, and wakes up to find the cows are gone and in their place is a pouch of beans.
Jack ends up leaving, wondering if it would have been kinder to have left earlier so her father would have been forced to face his demons a long time ago. She doesn't have a clear plan or idea of where she's going, but that's what makes her departure so adventurous and exciting. Not to mention that she's finally free - away from her father's abuse and only has to worry about taking care of herself rather than someone who doesn't appreciate all that she does.
I was so excited for her! She's setting out on this journey this for herself, no one else. To me, the journey she embarks on was also symbolic of the kind young people take to discover themselves. Along Jack's way she meets different people whom she helps because she truly embodies kindness, and they recognize the quality in her.
One stormy night, the beans are accidentally planted, and she wakes up to find a towering beanstalk. From there, everything becomes magical.
I love the characters, especially Jack, and the adventure and romance woven into this tale. Starla has the imaginative chops to take this well known story and make it her own. From now on, I'll look at "Jack and the Beanstalk" with a new and fresh perspective. Every time I think about it, I'll think of The Stillness of the Sky and how beautiful and uplifting Starla retold this tale.
The Stillness of the Sky is a gender flipped take on "Jack and the Beanstalk" with originality. I ADORE Starla's Evolution series and her other gender flipped fairy tale, Shadows on Snow. I not only wish I had thought about this, too, but also wish for her to gender flip everything! XD
In this rendition, Jack is short for Jacqueline. Jack's mother is tired of dealing with her father so she tries to convince Jack to leave with her. Jack chooses to stay with her alcoholic father because she worries he won't be able to take care of himself. He's abusive to her and one day orders her to sell their cows to cover his debt. On her way to town, she stops to rest, falls asleep, and wakes up to find the cows are gone and in their place is a pouch of beans.
Jack ends up leaving, wondering if it would have been kinder to have left earlier so her father would have been forced to face his demons a long time ago. She doesn't have a clear plan or idea of where she's going, but that's what makes her departure so adventurous and exciting. Not to mention that she's finally free - away from her father's abuse and only has to worry about taking care of herself rather than someone who doesn't appreciate all that she does.
I was so excited for her! She's setting out on this journey this for herself, no one else. To me, the journey she embarks on was also symbolic of the kind young people take to discover themselves. Along Jack's way she meets different people whom she helps because she truly embodies kindness, and they recognize the quality in her.
One stormy night, the beans are accidentally planted, and she wakes up to find a towering beanstalk. From there, everything becomes magical.
I love the characters, especially Jack, and the adventure and romance woven into this tale. Starla has the imaginative chops to take this well known story and make it her own. From now on, I'll look at "Jack and the Beanstalk" with a new and fresh perspective. Every time I think about it, I'll think of The Stillness of the Sky and how beautiful and uplifting Starla retold this tale.
December 16, 2015
Очень странный роман. Обескураживающий и завораживающий. Наверное, он ближе к старым-добрым сказкам, чем к современным ЛР в антураже, и все же самобытен и оригинален.
Это история Джека и бобового стебля. Точнее Жаклин и бесконечной доброты.
Именно доброта движет героиней с самого детства, когда совсем еще малышка отказалась сбегать с матерью, не смогла бросить пьяницу-отца одного. Доброта помогает ей держаться все эти годы, терпеть побои и находить волшебство в мелочах. Но однажды Джек все равно приходится уйти. Сначала из дома, потом вверх по бобовому стеблю в мир великанов, потом снова вниз и вдаль по человеческим землям в поисках матери и себя самой.
Джек открывает в себе талант барда и помогает людям вновь поверить в добро и милосердие.
Я не знаю, как еще рассказать об этой книге...
Вчитываться тяжело - настолько непривычно написано. Поначалу возникает множество вопросов (например, о сбежавшей матери и о том, какого черта она позволила ребенку что-то решать), но со временем ответы находятся, а повествование затягивает с головой. Многие вещи поданы со старосказочной прямотой, без экивоков и уверток, но под этой прямотой при желание можно разглядеть еще множество слоев и смыслов.
Любовь... любовь тоже сказочная и в то же время безумно земная. И принц одновременно и сказочный, и самый обыкновенный.
А концовка с легкой горчинкой. Когда все по-сказочному хорошо, но в груди чуток щемит и в глазах слезы не трагедийные, а... будто только что послушал невыносимо красивую песню.
Да, роман очень музыкальный, и все, что пела и играла на своем пути Джек, явственно звучало в моих ушах.
В целом, честно говорю, вещь сильно на любителя. И даже любитель может не сразу погрузиться в атмосферу.
Однако я рада, что в какой-то момент решила продолжить и дослушала эту песню до конца.
Это история Джека и бобового стебля. Точнее Жаклин и бесконечной доброты.
Именно доброта движет героиней с самого детства, когда совсем еще малышка отказалась сбегать с матерью, не смогла бросить пьяницу-отца одного. Доброта помогает ей держаться все эти годы, терпеть побои и находить волшебство в мелочах. Но однажды Джек все равно приходится уйти. Сначала из дома, потом вверх по бобовому стеблю в мир великанов, потом снова вниз и вдаль по человеческим землям в поисках матери и себя самой.
Джек открывает в себе талант барда и помогает людям вновь поверить в добро и милосердие.
Я не знаю, как еще рассказать об этой книге...
Вчитываться тяжело - настолько непривычно написано. Поначалу возникает множество вопросов (например, о сбежавшей матери и о том, какого черта она позволила ребенку что-то решать), но со временем ответы находятся, а повествование затягивает с головой. Многие вещи поданы со старосказочной прямотой, без экивоков и уверток, но под этой прямотой при желание можно разглядеть еще множество слоев и смыслов.
Любовь... любовь тоже сказочная и в то же время безумно земная. И принц одновременно и сказочный, и самый обыкновенный.
А концовка с легкой горчинкой. Когда все по-сказочному хорошо, но в груди чуток щемит и в глазах слезы не трагедийные, а... будто только что послушал невыносимо красивую песню.
Да, роман очень музыкальный, и все, что пела и играла на своем пути Джек, явственно звучало в моих ушах.
В целом, честно говорю, вещь сильно на любителя. И даже любитель может не сразу погрузиться в атмосферу.
Однако я рада, что в какой-то момент решила продолжить и дослушала эту песню до конца.
April 23, 2015
“There will always be opportunities to be better people, but it’s up to us to take those chances.” (Page 286).
What can we do to ensure that the world be a better place in 100 years? Starla Huchton, Miss America contestants and Jack from the Stillness in the Sky all think the answer is peace. Jack’s answer comes with magical consequences that bind her to fulfill this wish by using her newfound abilities as a powerful and talented bard. She was nothing more than a farmer’s daughter when she came across the three beans after all.
I used to read Princess stories and odd fairy tales and have never found another book written like those until finding Starla Huchton’s Flipped Fairy Tales. I’m so delighted by Huchton’s writing style and quaint fairy tale adaptations. She is a wonderfully talented writer with an eye for re-imagining childhood favorites. Her style will grab you and plunk you down into a world that is familiar, yet unique. Huchton must have sat down one day and thought, what if? Not just thinking through the possibilities, Huchton interweaves Aesop’s Fables’s type morals and characters that are struck with such conviction, you have to believe them and believe in them.
It’s entirely obvious the themes and morals Huchton describes through Stillness in the Sky, but they are not overtly preachy. They come from a place of goodness and kindness and wishing to instill the same understanding of peace in all the characters and through them to the reader. Not as obvious is the fact that Jack is humble. That is one of the most unique and distracting traits in a character. How many people do you know that are truly humble? Jack isn’t just humble, though, she is kind and wishes to do good by the world.
What can we do to ensure that the world be a better place in 100 years? Starla Huchton, Miss America contestants and Jack from the Stillness in the Sky all think the answer is peace. Jack’s answer comes with magical consequences that bind her to fulfill this wish by using her newfound abilities as a powerful and talented bard. She was nothing more than a farmer’s daughter when she came across the three beans after all.
I used to read Princess stories and odd fairy tales and have never found another book written like those until finding Starla Huchton’s Flipped Fairy Tales. I’m so delighted by Huchton’s writing style and quaint fairy tale adaptations. She is a wonderfully talented writer with an eye for re-imagining childhood favorites. Her style will grab you and plunk you down into a world that is familiar, yet unique. Huchton must have sat down one day and thought, what if? Not just thinking through the possibilities, Huchton interweaves Aesop’s Fables’s type morals and characters that are struck with such conviction, you have to believe them and believe in them.
It’s entirely obvious the themes and morals Huchton describes through Stillness in the Sky, but they are not overtly preachy. They come from a place of goodness and kindness and wishing to instill the same understanding of peace in all the characters and through them to the reader. Not as obvious is the fact that Jack is humble. That is one of the most unique and distracting traits in a character. How many people do you know that are truly humble? Jack isn’t just humble, though, she is kind and wishes to do good by the world.
May 26, 2015
So much love and kindness. A GREAT inspiration for all to be better in the kindness way to all. I think I enjoyed this one more than the first, and the first was amazing. The talent in Starla's writing has become something to reckoned with. My word! Starla is a Bard for sure. The Bard story here has a true Bard feel to it. All the words are poetic and so SO many amazing phrases and statements that people could relate to their lives. This story has the feel of many fairytales do, the underlining meaning and something to take away from it in the end.
***FULL REVIEW****
Jack passed on leaving her father when her mother left. She thought he needed her kindness to help him. Now, Jack has to leave. The kindness she can do to her drunken father to help him is to go. The journey Jack follows is one she never thought she'd find, but amazed at what she learns. In a world were war has depressed the people, Jack's kindness is needed, and even greatly appreciated when it's touched someone. Jack learns she's to stop the war that's killing the people. A war between giants and the humans. Jack has much to learn and fight for with kindness as she searches for her mother to learn about her family history, which will shock her.
Giants, Bards, Princes, magic, and kindness.
Oh my freakin' goodness!!! This is my favorite of the two books thus far. WOW!! Starla completely out did herself in this one.
So much love and kindness. A GREAT inspiration for all to be better in the kindness way to all. I think I enjoyed this one more than the first, and the first was amazing. The talent in Starla's writing has become something to reckoned with. My word! Starla is a Bard for sure. The Bard story here has a true Bard feel to it. All the words are poetic and so SO many amazing phrases and statements that people could relate to their lives. This story has the feel of many fairytales do, the underlining meaning and something to take away from it in the end.
Out. Standing.
Now, after my gushing love for the book, to about the book. The character of Jackie, Jack, is one that caught me from the word go. Her heart is huge and she wants nothing but to help everyone. She wants nothing in return for her kindness to them. Her kindness and seeing the kindness help someone is all the favor she needs back.
The tale of Jack is as you can predict, the tale of Jack and the Bean Stalk remastered. And remastered it is. We see the giants, but in a touch of a different fashion. The magic of music, stories, and dancing are relayed through people who are bards. The story of old is here, but turned into a fresh installment that will draw you in and hold you here with the magic of words.
Do you need to read the first one to read this one? No, I believe you do not need to read Shadows on Snow before this one. And the books are created that way as they are of different people in the same world. There is mention of a few that are in the first book, but nothing that you need from that book that's not told in this one. Now if you want to read in chronological time order, then yes read Shadows on Snow first. But not necessary.
Again, this book is a great tale for all ages. Adult and Young Adult will enjoy this clean story alike.
Do you need it? OH HEAVENS YES!!!
***FULL REVIEW****
Jack passed on leaving her father when her mother left. She thought he needed her kindness to help him. Now, Jack has to leave. The kindness she can do to her drunken father to help him is to go. The journey Jack follows is one she never thought she'd find, but amazed at what she learns. In a world were war has depressed the people, Jack's kindness is needed, and even greatly appreciated when it's touched someone. Jack learns she's to stop the war that's killing the people. A war between giants and the humans. Jack has much to learn and fight for with kindness as she searches for her mother to learn about her family history, which will shock her.
Giants, Bards, Princes, magic, and kindness.
Oh my freakin' goodness!!! This is my favorite of the two books thus far. WOW!! Starla completely out did herself in this one.
So much love and kindness. A GREAT inspiration for all to be better in the kindness way to all. I think I enjoyed this one more than the first, and the first was amazing. The talent in Starla's writing has become something to reckoned with. My word! Starla is a Bard for sure. The Bard story here has a true Bard feel to it. All the words are poetic and so SO many amazing phrases and statements that people could relate to their lives. This story has the feel of many fairytales do, the underlining meaning and something to take away from it in the end.
Out. Standing.
Now, after my gushing love for the book, to about the book. The character of Jackie, Jack, is one that caught me from the word go. Her heart is huge and she wants nothing but to help everyone. She wants nothing in return for her kindness to them. Her kindness and seeing the kindness help someone is all the favor she needs back.
The tale of Jack is as you can predict, the tale of Jack and the Bean Stalk remastered. And remastered it is. We see the giants, but in a touch of a different fashion. The magic of music, stories, and dancing are relayed through people who are bards. The story of old is here, but turned into a fresh installment that will draw you in and hold you here with the magic of words.
Do you need to read the first one to read this one? No, I believe you do not need to read Shadows on Snow before this one. And the books are created that way as they are of different people in the same world. There is mention of a few that are in the first book, but nothing that you need from that book that's not told in this one. Now if you want to read in chronological time order, then yes read Shadows on Snow first. But not necessary.
Again, this book is a great tale for all ages. Adult and Young Adult will enjoy this clean story alike.
Do you need it? OH HEAVENS YES!!!
February 21, 2015
There is something wonderful about discovering a new author - someone that makes you completely fall in love with reading all over again and transports you into the story. The way that Starla Huchton flips the gender in her retelling of fairy tales is masterful. She captures the emotions of her characters nicely and her imagery is well developed. To take a story that everyone knows and retell it in a way that makes you curious again is not an easy task. I recommend reading Shadows on Snow first but I liked this book even better than that one.
March 18, 2015
I came away with similar feeling with this book as I did the other in that I could recognize the fairy tale but the story was engaging and not childlike at all. I didn't pickup immediately on the connection of the characters between this book and the other twisted fairy tale. But once I realize it so many other things clicked. Awesome read. I feel like my love of fantasy novels is renewing after reading these two novels...
September 15, 2021
While looking for a retelling of a fairy tale for a book group I found this book and requested it from the library along with others. I have loved fairy tales my whole life, but Jack and the beanstalk was never one I went to. This book was so wonderful that I will now be able to look at Jack in a whole new light! Even more exciting was finding out this was part of a series! I must read more and see what the author does with other fairy tales. I have never read a book so focused on kindness, especially in the fantasy section. I cannot say enough good things about how this book made me feel and how much it resembles the type of person I would like to be!
February 3, 2015
The story is such an adventure to begin with. Jack (Jacqueline), is on a search for her roots. She wants to know who she is and where she comes from. When her father kicks her out of the house to go sell their last remaining livestock to fuel his drunken desire, she only tries to oblige to his request. Since walking distance is so far away, she decides to sleep for a while with the cows tied up. Once she reopens her eyes, she discovers that her cows are gone, three seeds have been placed beside her, and her father would do anything to keep his selfish and greedy habits, including sell his daughter. And so, with nowhere to turn, she is left to leave home and wonder throughout the world looking for the place that she belongs or can call home. Along the way, she meets friends, family, and discovers the answers that she seeks with the magic of kindness. Little does she know that a little kindness could spread throughout entire kingdoms!
What strikes me as noteworthy would have to be the main moral of the story which is kindness. This author is absolutely fantastic. She allows the reader to experience an entire world with characters that are bent on greed and selfish desires; however, she also sheds light on those that do still remain kind and open-hearted. Jack, the main character, really inspired me to keep reading her story. She endured pain and abuse in the start; however, she was the one who made the choice to walk away and find a better place, to find peace. I enjoyed this tale and was all too excited to find out that the characters from “Shadows on Snow” continued to be mentioned throughout this story.
I recommend this tale to all of my readers, the readers who enjoy reading fantasy. This is a flipped fairy tale which portrays the life of Jack…and maybe it mentions something about a beanstalk somewhere in there. It is truly a fantastic and invigorating read and I couldn’t pay enough compliments to the author other than sharing my review. I also really enjoyed the short tale after this one regarding Ro’s life leading up to the friendship that unfolds in this tale. Again, since these tales were so very persuasive and the moral of the story just absolutely brilliant and strong, I give her five stars for a successful because I couldn’t put it down!
What strikes me as noteworthy would have to be the main moral of the story which is kindness. This author is absolutely fantastic. She allows the reader to experience an entire world with characters that are bent on greed and selfish desires; however, she also sheds light on those that do still remain kind and open-hearted. Jack, the main character, really inspired me to keep reading her story. She endured pain and abuse in the start; however, she was the one who made the choice to walk away and find a better place, to find peace. I enjoyed this tale and was all too excited to find out that the characters from “Shadows on Snow” continued to be mentioned throughout this story.
I recommend this tale to all of my readers, the readers who enjoy reading fantasy. This is a flipped fairy tale which portrays the life of Jack…and maybe it mentions something about a beanstalk somewhere in there. It is truly a fantastic and invigorating read and I couldn’t pay enough compliments to the author other than sharing my review. I also really enjoyed the short tale after this one regarding Ro’s life leading up to the friendship that unfolds in this tale. Again, since these tales were so very persuasive and the moral of the story just absolutely brilliant and strong, I give her five stars for a successful because I couldn’t put it down!
May 19, 2015
Oh my goodness this was such a treasure, I honestly don't even know where to begin! I love fairy tale retellings and the creative twist the author added to the story was just phenomenal! And as much as I enjoy fairy tale retellings, many sadly come up short for me because they start off with so much potential but then deteriorate into a slightly more interesting regurgitation of the original story with romance taking over the majority of the plot, but not this book!! The author has managed to turn a fairy tale that I couldn't care less about into an exciting, unique, meaningful work of art that still had depth and substance to it. And the romance was a nice added touch (although it felt a bit abrupt on the male character's part) but didn't take over the storyline or derail Jack from her purpose. Loved, loved, loved the characters and the world she has spun to life, the message she wove into the story, and just the plot in general! Yes, it did drag on a bit at certain points, there were some grammatical errors, some of the characters did fall slightly flat at times, the ending (the part before the epilogue, not the epilogue itself, which was done perfectly) was a tad anticlimactic and abrupt, and I found it hard to believe that Jack could grow up to have such a heart of gold after a lifetime of abuse but everything else about this book was so epic that it just overshadowed all of these things. I am eagerly looking forward to the next book in the flipped fairy tale series and can't wait till November!!!
May 6, 2016
Once again, Starla Huchton has taken one of my least favorite fairy tales of all time, gender-bends it, and turns it into one of the best Young-Adult novels of all time. In this Jack and the Beanstalk remix, Jacqueline (a.k.a Jack) a kindhearted girl who could not hurt a fly leaves home and her abusive father, well, after she looses the cows she was supposed to sell and found strange beans in their stead. On her trip she keeps sharing her kindness with others as she travels with no real plans, until one day she awakes to an enormous infinitely tall beanstalk. What happens next? You will have to read to find out. In this epic novel of magic, love, kindness and fate; so many pieces of wisdom are dropped throughout. I must say that this novel is truly uplifting and is definitely a feel good read. As a reader, I could not stop smiling as I read. I most definitely recommenced Into the Stillness of the Sky and give it the rating of FOUR AND A HALF OUT OF FIVE STARS!
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August 20, 2015
I love faerie tales, always have. New and old alike. However, I am very particular about retellings of classics. Sometimes, they don't change enough to make it worth the time to read it if you have read the original. Other times, so much is wildly different that it isn't even retelling anymore, but a whole new thing. Starla Hucthon's two flipped fairytales are the perfect mix for me! You can find the references and throwbacks to the original tales, whilst still enjoying something new. I loved it.
You don't need to have read Shadow on Snow to enjoy Stillness of the Sky. However, there are a few fun throwbacks sprinkled throughout that let you know this story takes place in the same universe. Always fun to see.
I enjoy her characters. The leads all feel very real and full bodied. The sort of faerie tale characters you want to root for and see succeed. These are not damsels in distress, sitting around waiting for the handsome prince to rescue them. Although the prince is handsome and useful! The story has everything a faerie tale needs. Adventure, villains, heroes, magic and love. It is a unique and fun take on the faerie tales we know and love and I can't wait to read more.
I would recommend this to fans of faerie tales, fantasy, light romance, adventure or someone looking for well written females.
You don't need to have read Shadow on Snow to enjoy Stillness of the Sky. However, there are a few fun throwbacks sprinkled throughout that let you know this story takes place in the same universe. Always fun to see.
I enjoy her characters. The leads all feel very real and full bodied. The sort of faerie tale characters you want to root for and see succeed. These are not damsels in distress, sitting around waiting for the handsome prince to rescue them. Although the prince is handsome and useful! The story has everything a faerie tale needs. Adventure, villains, heroes, magic and love. It is a unique and fun take on the faerie tales we know and love and I can't wait to read more.
I would recommend this to fans of faerie tales, fantasy, light romance, adventure or someone looking for well written females.
February 6, 2015
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
If you haven't read anything by Starla Huchton, you are really missing out on a great author. Whether superhero romance or a fairy tale retelling, her stories pull me in like few can. The Stillness of the Sky is no exception-- in fact I think this may be my favorite of her novels.
In this flipped fairy tale, Jack was a sixteen-year-old girl, and a wonderful role-model for anyone. She led a hard, traumatic life, yet had nothing but kindness for everyone around her. I loved the characters in this novel. Whether good or bad, they were all so well-developed. Ro, the magical bird, was a particular favorite.
The story was captivating, drawing me in to the point that I was completely lost to the outside world. I laughed and I cried a lot. Filled with vivid descriptions, Ms. Huchton wove an amazing tale as we followed Jack on her journey of self-discovery. I loved the romance between Jack and Will-- it was just so sweet. The ending left me smiling... but best of all, the story left me with a feeling of hope.
The Stillness of the Sky is appropriate for all age levels. Sweeping adventure and romance make this novel impossible to put down once started. One of the best I've read in a long time.
If you haven't read anything by Starla Huchton, you are really missing out on a great author. Whether superhero romance or a fairy tale retelling, her stories pull me in like few can. The Stillness of the Sky is no exception-- in fact I think this may be my favorite of her novels.
In this flipped fairy tale, Jack was a sixteen-year-old girl, and a wonderful role-model for anyone. She led a hard, traumatic life, yet had nothing but kindness for everyone around her. I loved the characters in this novel. Whether good or bad, they were all so well-developed. Ro, the magical bird, was a particular favorite.
The story was captivating, drawing me in to the point that I was completely lost to the outside world. I laughed and I cried a lot. Filled with vivid descriptions, Ms. Huchton wove an amazing tale as we followed Jack on her journey of self-discovery. I loved the romance between Jack and Will-- it was just so sweet. The ending left me smiling... but best of all, the story left me with a feeling of hope.
The Stillness of the Sky is appropriate for all age levels. Sweeping adventure and romance make this novel impossible to put down once started. One of the best I've read in a long time.
February 16, 2015
Disclaimer: I received an ecopy of this book to read and review honestly for the purposes of this book tour. No other compensation was offered nor would have been accepted.
Oh, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways...No, really. Starla Huchton has hit another one out of the ballpark. From the Evolution series to Shadows on Snow, I am a Huchton fan, totally confirmed. I have to read The Endure Series, of which I know that I at least have Maven waiting for me on the Kindle. And honestly, I don't know why I haven't started it yet because Huchton has never disappointed. And THE STILLNESS OF SKY is no different. Brilliantly told, instantly engaging, this was a kindlebruiser for sure.
Starla Huchton takes the well known fairytale "Jack and the Beanstalk" and totally makes it her own. After reading this, I doubt you'll ever think of that tale and not think of THE STILLNESS OF SKY. This is not just a fairy tale, but a tale of becoming. An adventure, a tale of discovery, and full of magic, this is one I'll be re-reading over and over again.
February 4, 2015
*I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I first read The Evolution Series by Starla Huchton and from that moment on I promised myself to be an Internet stalker... I mean super-fan- of ALL of her work!
I was honored to read The Stillness of the Sky, which is her second flipped fairy tale, and I will continue to stalk...uh... read her work.
All funniness aside, this is a true work of art.
The Stillness of the Sky is about a girl named Jack, and she has endured loads of trauma in her life, mostly from her father. She leaves looking for her own place in the world that can be her home and what she finds means more to her than anything, she finds her own way.
Jack is such a strong female character and I loved reading every minute of her tale.
You have to read every page, and every word because the fantasy is so fantastic! I was able to loose myself in it for a time and I was so sad to have finished so quickly!
Get your own copy and read it ASAP!!
~Dowie
I first read The Evolution Series by Starla Huchton and from that moment on I promised myself to be an Internet stalker... I mean super-fan- of ALL of her work!
I was honored to read The Stillness of the Sky, which is her second flipped fairy tale, and I will continue to stalk...uh... read her work.
All funniness aside, this is a true work of art.
The Stillness of the Sky is about a girl named Jack, and she has endured loads of trauma in her life, mostly from her father. She leaves looking for her own place in the world that can be her home and what she finds means more to her than anything, she finds her own way.
Jack is such a strong female character and I loved reading every minute of her tale.
You have to read every page, and every word because the fantasy is so fantastic! I was able to loose myself in it for a time and I was so sad to have finished so quickly!
Get your own copy and read it ASAP!!
~Dowie
February 9, 2015
*** 5/5 Stars! ***
This is my second book to review by this author. I LOVE her writing style and stories. They are fairy tale sweet but lifelike in their realism and presentation. In this novel, she mixes up traditional fairy tales and delivers them on a lovely platter of lyrical fantasy.
Jack, Jacqueline, is our main hero. This chick is sweet, vulnerable, and kind. She also has an uber power hidden within herself that is unleashed once she sets out on an adventure to escape her abusive home life. Giants, magic, princes (selfish and not), inn keepers, a rideable raven… and our lovely protagonist is in for a whole lot more than she bargained for. Love, adventure, sorrow, and discovering her true family ends for a happily tied up ever after.
Please, if you’re a lover of fantasy or anything in a similar genre, pick up Ms. Huchton’s books. They make for excellent reads and her newest release does not fail to entertain!
Note: I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review during a book tour.
This is my second book to review by this author. I LOVE her writing style and stories. They are fairy tale sweet but lifelike in their realism and presentation. In this novel, she mixes up traditional fairy tales and delivers them on a lovely platter of lyrical fantasy.
Jack, Jacqueline, is our main hero. This chick is sweet, vulnerable, and kind. She also has an uber power hidden within herself that is unleashed once she sets out on an adventure to escape her abusive home life. Giants, magic, princes (selfish and not), inn keepers, a rideable raven… and our lovely protagonist is in for a whole lot more than she bargained for. Love, adventure, sorrow, and discovering her true family ends for a happily tied up ever after.
Please, if you’re a lover of fantasy or anything in a similar genre, pick up Ms. Huchton’s books. They make for excellent reads and her newest release does not fail to entertain!
Note: I received a copy of this book in return for an honest review during a book tour.
October 18, 2015
“Gaping, I wondered, not for the first time, exactly how hard I’d hit my head to account for the unparalleled vision before me.”
The Stillness of the Sky has a wonderful style to it that just clicked for me much like the previous book in the Flipped Fairy Tales series Shadows on Snow. It’s got a depth of description that can’t help but paint the fantastic image of the world created here, while at the same time leaving enough to the imagination to set it flying.
The story was only the barest portions of what I was expecting. And I’m not one to spill the details so you’re going to have to read it for yourself. But be prepared to quickly leave the script you thought you knew and take off on a fantastic adventure.
“All of this change brought about because of a single act of kindness and a wish.”
I really enjoyed the message that I got from the story though that the kindness we show to each other even in the darkest of times can bring hope.
The Stillness of the Sky has a wonderful style to it that just clicked for me much like the previous book in the Flipped Fairy Tales series Shadows on Snow. It’s got a depth of description that can’t help but paint the fantastic image of the world created here, while at the same time leaving enough to the imagination to set it flying.
The story was only the barest portions of what I was expecting. And I’m not one to spill the details so you’re going to have to read it for yourself. But be prepared to quickly leave the script you thought you knew and take off on a fantastic adventure.
“All of this change brought about because of a single act of kindness and a wish.”
I really enjoyed the message that I got from the story though that the kindness we show to each other even in the darkest of times can bring hope.
February 11, 2015
"Never discount the impact of the smallest kindness" for "Kindness given is kindness returned"
This book started off at a crawl but picked up its pace steadily and was a fun read in the end. It is all about the power of kindness and an unimaginable "change brought about because of a single act of kindness and a wish", albeit an incredible wish by an abused, naive, and stubbornly kind girl. The writing style was lyrical, had a fairytale like tone, a soothing resonance and all around beauty. The world building and character developement were intricate and executed artfully. She created a world not only occupied by humans but by Witches, Giants, magical relics, magical Bards, royal intrigue and more. It preaches the need for unconditional Kindness as well as Hope (not in a hippie kind of way) and left me wishing to see such wonder in our world along with giving me the warm fuzzies. All in all a relatively sluggish read but a fun one nonetheless.
This book started off at a crawl but picked up its pace steadily and was a fun read in the end. It is all about the power of kindness and an unimaginable "change brought about because of a single act of kindness and a wish", albeit an incredible wish by an abused, naive, and stubbornly kind girl. The writing style was lyrical, had a fairytale like tone, a soothing resonance and all around beauty. The world building and character developement were intricate and executed artfully. She created a world not only occupied by humans but by Witches, Giants, magical relics, magical Bards, royal intrigue and more. It preaches the need for unconditional Kindness as well as Hope (not in a hippie kind of way) and left me wishing to see such wonder in our world along with giving me the warm fuzzies. All in all a relatively sluggish read but a fun one nonetheless.
April 18, 2015
When I finally got into this book it was really good. I struggled with the first several chapters.
This is a very original idea taking a welk know tale and putting a completely new spin. I loved the character of Jack, such a wonderful strong and kind character.
The story shows us all the importance of kindness in the world.
Thank you x
This is a very original idea taking a welk know tale and putting a completely new spin. I loved the character of Jack, such a wonderful strong and kind character.
The story shows us all the importance of kindness in the world.
Thank you x
June 6, 2015
Quick thoughts: Another great twisting and blending of established stories by Huchton. Loses just a touch of momentum towards the end but still provides a suitable finale. Jack is a fantastic protagonist and Huchton's imagination and deft touch give her gender swapped fairy tales significant depth and appeal.
April 14, 2015
What a wonderful book! The writing drew me in from the beginning and the story was so much fun! I loved this re-telling of Jack and the Beanstalk and every so much more. I will be reading more of this author's books
February 8, 2015
Wonderful characters and story.
June 5, 2015
So refreshing to read a book with a theme of kindness!
September 26, 2019
The Stillness of the Sky: A Flipped Fairy Tale Flipped Fairy Tales, Book 2
Author: Starla Huchton
Narrator: Starla Huchton
Listening Time: 8 Hrs. 56 Min.
Disclaimer: "This Audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost, in exchange for an unbiased honest review."
I always like to preface any reviews I give with this information.
I am a 68 year old female who has been an avid reader since I was around 10 or 11 years old.
I read primarily for pleasure.
I have a great many interests and do a lot of research for personal pleasure and knowledge as well.
Review: This is a review of the Audiobook Version.
First of all I have to tell you that I was enthralled with this wonderful and magical story!
Who among us didn't love Fairy Tales as children and look back fondly at them from our adult perspective and wish some of them could have come true?
This is a superb flipped perspective of Jack and the Beanstalk, and truthfully this is a much better story than the original, (in my humble opinion).
Without going into too much detail in the story line I found it quite interesting that evil wore another face than the one we usually associate with the original fairy tale.
When I read/listen to a book/audiobook, or watch a movie, or the news, my mind is always looking for what the intent of the story is. What lesson is couched in the story itself? Is there a moral to the story? What is the author trying to get me to see? There are so many layers of meaning that can be possible; some obvious and others more subtle.
One of the things I truly enjoyed was the progression of "Jack's" character. The things she came to realize and understand. Her ability to have the courage to confront her fears and to be brave.
Life is more about the journey, than the destination. I never used to believe that but as I have matured in life I have come to see that it is what we learn along the way on our journey that shapes who we are. Without the life experiences we live through, (and sometimes the suffering we experience), we would be far less without having experienced those things that helped shape us.
This is one of the lessons in this Flipped Fairy Tale. I will leave the rest to you to discover.
Perhaps the most lovely and beautiful part of this audiobook was the singing the narrator/author did. This addition was so charming and an integral part of the story line; after all that is what a Bard does.
Author Starla Huchton is an author I had never read, or heard before and I am so amazed at the purity of her writing and the lessons within. Since she is also the narrator/voice actor, I can only tell you that if you miss this gem of a story, you will be poorer for it.
I also loved Ro and was so very pleased to see an additional short story about his life included.
This is a story that I think anyone from the ages of 7 and above would love to read, or hear and be charmed by.
Get the book! You will be so happy you did!
Author: Starla Huchton
Narrator: Starla Huchton
Listening Time: 8 Hrs. 56 Min.
Disclaimer: "This Audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost, in exchange for an unbiased honest review."
I always like to preface any reviews I give with this information.
I am a 68 year old female who has been an avid reader since I was around 10 or 11 years old.
I read primarily for pleasure.
I have a great many interests and do a lot of research for personal pleasure and knowledge as well.
Review: This is a review of the Audiobook Version.
First of all I have to tell you that I was enthralled with this wonderful and magical story!
Who among us didn't love Fairy Tales as children and look back fondly at them from our adult perspective and wish some of them could have come true?
This is a superb flipped perspective of Jack and the Beanstalk, and truthfully this is a much better story than the original, (in my humble opinion).
Without going into too much detail in the story line I found it quite interesting that evil wore another face than the one we usually associate with the original fairy tale.
When I read/listen to a book/audiobook, or watch a movie, or the news, my mind is always looking for what the intent of the story is. What lesson is couched in the story itself? Is there a moral to the story? What is the author trying to get me to see? There are so many layers of meaning that can be possible; some obvious and others more subtle.
One of the things I truly enjoyed was the progression of "Jack's" character. The things she came to realize and understand. Her ability to have the courage to confront her fears and to be brave.
Life is more about the journey, than the destination. I never used to believe that but as I have matured in life I have come to see that it is what we learn along the way on our journey that shapes who we are. Without the life experiences we live through, (and sometimes the suffering we experience), we would be far less without having experienced those things that helped shape us.
This is one of the lessons in this Flipped Fairy Tale. I will leave the rest to you to discover.
Perhaps the most lovely and beautiful part of this audiobook was the singing the narrator/author did. This addition was so charming and an integral part of the story line; after all that is what a Bard does.
Author Starla Huchton is an author I had never read, or heard before and I am so amazed at the purity of her writing and the lessons within. Since she is also the narrator/voice actor, I can only tell you that if you miss this gem of a story, you will be poorer for it.
I also loved Ro and was so very pleased to see an additional short story about his life included.
This is a story that I think anyone from the ages of 7 and above would love to read, or hear and be charmed by.
Get the book! You will be so happy you did!
did-not-finish
May 21, 2023Review also available on my blog The Shameful Narcissist Speaks.
This is a "Jack and the Beanstalk with a different gender retelling," which has never been one of my favorite fairytales. I don't hate it, but I could never be completely on Jack's side. I mean he did break into someone's house and steal their shit so why wouldn't the giant be angry about that?
As with most fairytale MC's the mother is absent, though this time not dead. She left when Jack was younger, leaving her with an abusive and alcoholic father, though apparently this was by Jack's own choice, because if she'd gone with her "who would've taken care of the animals." *eyeroll* Of course there needs to be a catalyst for a story (had Jack gone with her mother there wouldn't be a plot), and I think Huchton is trying to say it wasn't that the mother didn't want her, but rather Jack made her own (poor) choices, but it's pretty infuriating.
I could've gotten through this if Jack didn't embody one of my hated characteristics: unrealistic naivete. Maybe this is one of those "you hate what you see in yourself," but it irritates me to no end when a character has had enough experiences that should inform their worldview, but it doesn't. I know I can be gullible, and I always hate when I am, but if someone constantly shows you who they are, why would expect anything different? She overhears her father offering to sell her to a "wh*rehouse" to pay his debts, and it's then she decides it's time to go, but it's her inner dialogue about "always choosing kindness" and her sympathy/kindness towards this absolute douchebag that just sets me off. No matter what he's gone through, you do not deserve his abuse! Fuck abusive parents and fuck kindness in the face of such. I have to try so hard not to blame the victim in situations like this, because I want to shake them for putting up with what I know, on an intellectual level, is unfair. It's not the victim's fault the abusers are trash and they (the victim) has been gaslit and almost groomed to sympathize with them. It's a coping mechanism in order to rationalize why they're being treated in such a way.
I do intend to continue the series with the next book Ride the Wind, and I enjoyed the first Shadows on Snow (though I can't remember much about it now even though I reviewed it).
No stars since I didn't even finish half of it, and it's always possible the rest of the story makes up for the issues presented above.
This is a "Jack and the Beanstalk with a different gender retelling," which has never been one of my favorite fairytales. I don't hate it, but I could never be completely on Jack's side. I mean he did break into someone's house and steal their shit so why wouldn't the giant be angry about that?
As with most fairytale MC's the mother is absent, though this time not dead. She left when Jack was younger, leaving her with an abusive and alcoholic father, though apparently this was by Jack's own choice, because if she'd gone with her "who would've taken care of the animals." *eyeroll* Of course there needs to be a catalyst for a story (had Jack gone with her mother there wouldn't be a plot), and I think Huchton is trying to say it wasn't that the mother didn't want her, but rather Jack made her own (poor) choices, but it's pretty infuriating.
I could've gotten through this if Jack didn't embody one of my hated characteristics: unrealistic naivete. Maybe this is one of those "you hate what you see in yourself," but it irritates me to no end when a character has had enough experiences that should inform their worldview, but it doesn't. I know I can be gullible, and I always hate when I am, but if someone constantly shows you who they are, why would expect anything different? She overhears her father offering to sell her to a "wh*rehouse" to pay his debts, and it's then she decides it's time to go, but it's her inner dialogue about "always choosing kindness" and her sympathy/kindness towards this absolute douchebag that just sets me off. No matter what he's gone through, you do not deserve his abuse! Fuck abusive parents and fuck kindness in the face of such. I have to try so hard not to blame the victim in situations like this, because I want to shake them for putting up with what I know, on an intellectual level, is unfair. It's not the victim's fault the abusers are trash and they (the victim) has been gaslit and almost groomed to sympathize with them. It's a coping mechanism in order to rationalize why they're being treated in such a way.
I do intend to continue the series with the next book Ride the Wind, and I enjoyed the first Shadows on Snow (though I can't remember much about it now even though I reviewed it).
No stars since I didn't even finish half of it, and it's always possible the rest of the story makes up for the issues presented above.
September 19, 2019
Starla, you wrote and read a truly Wonderful book... you gave me goosebumps!!! Thank you!
This is only the second tale in this Flipped Fairy Tales and I've gotta say that it's already one of my favorite series! The first book was more or less a retelling of Snow White, with the titular character as a Prince! But, this story is so much more than that! Really, this story is not just Jack (Jacqueline) climbing the bean stalk, it's a jumping off point to a bigger, greater story, offering up a new life, and new beginnings for Jack, and something completely different for the reader!
Kudos for the bonus story towards the end, where a corvid named Ro takes center stage! Ro is a wonderful character in this universe, and is a fantastic addition to Jack's story... Jack recognized Ro as a crow, albeit a very BIG crow, but a crow nonetheless, rather early in her (Jack's) story, but that's before Ro starts changing into something else! So now I really want/need to know... Just what the heck IS Ro?!?? I'd be happy if Ro's just a Damn Big, very colorful crow, but I'm laying odds that he's actually a creature straight out of mythology!
This is only the second tale in this Flipped Fairy Tales and I've gotta say that it's already one of my favorite series! The first book was more or less a retelling of Snow White, with the titular character as a Prince! But, this story is so much more than that! Really, this story is not just Jack (Jacqueline) climbing the bean stalk, it's a jumping off point to a bigger, greater story, offering up a new life, and new beginnings for Jack, and something completely different for the reader!
Kudos for the bonus story towards the end, where a corvid named Ro takes center stage! Ro is a wonderful character in this universe, and is a fantastic addition to Jack's story... Jack recognized Ro as a crow, albeit a very BIG crow, but a crow nonetheless, rather early in her (Jack's) story, but that's before Ro starts changing into something else! So now I really want/need to know... Just what the heck IS Ro?!?? I'd be happy if Ro's just a Damn Big, very colorful crow, but I'm laying odds that he's actually a creature straight out of mythology!
April 30, 2019
Not my favorite read
I enjoyed the message about kindness but I just didn't enjoy the story as a whole. The main character was not one of my favorites and the love story was a bit too instant love for my tastes. I love a good slow burn. However, the author is a wonderful write and has create a unique fairy tale world so the book is worth reading if you want a story about kindness and do not mind a bit of instant love.
I enjoyed the message about kindness but I just didn't enjoy the story as a whole. The main character was not one of my favorites and the love story was a bit too instant love for my tastes. I love a good slow burn. However, the author is a wonderful write and has create a unique fairy tale world so the book is worth reading if you want a story about kindness and do not mind a bit of instant love.
October 22, 2019
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review. Yet another amazing book by this amazing author! I loved Jack! She was brave and strong. She was just a good character. I also loved her bird Rowe! This story was unique and wonderful. I couldn't put it down. I loved the singing. The narration was fabulous. I love fairytale retellings and this is a great one!
June 12, 2020
Meh... it was ok.. barely. The first book was really good so I had high Hope's for this one. But the characters were flat, boring, unrealistic, and unrelatable. No so bad I couldn't finish the book but not something I'd reread or recommend. To to it off, despite the main characters kindness... she's rather selfish. Very pot and kettle with what she was lecturing the eldest prince on. I hope the next one is more like the first.
November 6, 2021
What a story!I loved it!Bards having magic is a wonderful idea. Jack was left with her dad at 9 years old.She is abused and only when she is freed does she find out who she really is.Starla Huchton was a terrific narrator.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
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