Fated to the Pumpkin Prince is a cozy romance between a spoiled prince and the baker whose life he ruined in this enemies to lovers Cinderella Reimagining, with a side of pumpkin pie.
Elle’s lifelong dream was to manage her family’s bakery, and perhaps, just once, catch the prince’s eye. Little did she know, the day she gained his attention would be the same day she'd face total ruin.
After years of working under her cruel stepmother and stepsisters, Elle strikes a bargain that unknowingly shackles her fate to the very prince who wronged her. With little to their names, Elle and the prince are forced to work together to find a way out of the terrible mess they’ve found themselves in. Their only hope lies in a half-sunken city where an ancient enchantress trades in tears and secrets, but magic always demands its price and the closer they come to breaking the spell that binds them, the more they must reckon with the truth that some spells only reveal what was already there all along.
Rebecca writes dark fantasy romance, usually with gothic elements and always with morally gray characters. Originally from England, she lives in Texas with her husband, and two sons. She loves anything with enemies to lovers, slow burn, and lots of angst.
Like this book once said ‘you were one of my greatest adventures’
This was truly one of my favorite reads from a long time. Again in the theme of a retelling of Cinderella, I actually enjoyed how the author incorporated elements of Cinderella without necessarily reapeating the storyline.
It was also refreshing to see a grumpy vs. sunshine trope where the FMC was the kinda grumpy one when usually it’s the MMC. I genuinely like both main characters, although I found that the FMC was a bit annoying at times leading to miscommunication which is what brought mu rating down to a 4.5.
Loved the relationship development between the two MC’s. Found that it was the perfect pace being not too fast nor too slow.
Overall, was a true honor to be able to get an ARC of this book.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review*
This was such a lovely book to kick off the cozy season! I enjoyed the story, characters, and the twist on the beloved Cinderella story.
I took off a star because there were a couple of sentences that seemed so… modern for a time period with chamber pots (ex. “He completely missed the plot”) and it took me out of the story a bit.
Overall, I had a great time reading this book and I hope to read more in this series!!
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, this was a cute and enjoyable read with a lot of cozy, magical elements that I really loved. The food descriptions were fantastic (and made me perpetually hungry), the little dragon companion was easily one of my favorite parts, and I really enjoyed the story when it was doing its own thing.
The book is marketed as having Cinderella vibes, but at times I felt like it leaned a little too heavily into being a Cinderella retelling. Some of those parallels felt very on-the-nose, and I actually thought the story was strongest when it moved away from them and let its own plot and world shine.
I also struggled a bit with both of the main characters. The MMC was very spoiled-rich-boy-brat at the beginning, to the point that I genuinely disliked him. I did like him quite a bit by the end, but his growth felt too quick for me to fully buy the change in his personality. I had a similar issue with some of the FMC’s motivations, particularly her decision to make a deal with the person directly responsible for her father’s death because she blamed the prince for his role in what happened. I could understand her anger toward the prince, but I had a hard time believing it would outweigh her feelings toward the person who actually killed her father in front of her.
My biggest miss, though, was probably the spice. And I say that as someone who generally enjoys spice! The scenes felt tonally very different from the cozy, whimsical vibe of the rest of the book, which made them feel out of place and out of character. The writing in those scenes also became more detailed and anatomical than I personally found appealing. I honestly think I would have preferred the book without them.
That said, there was still a lot here that I enjoyed. The cozy atmosphere, magical elements, food, dragon companion, and the parts of the plot that ventured beyond the Cinderella framework were all really charming.
For me, it ultimately landed as a fun 3-star read: enjoyable while I was reading it, but probably not one I’d reread or put at the top of my recommendation list.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and I honestly had such a lovely time reading it.
There is something about this story that made it incredibly easy to get lost in. The Cinderella-inspired elements fit naturally into the fantasy setting, creating a fairytale feeling while still making the story feel like its own thing. The magic and all the little fairytale touches added so much to the experience.
Elle was a fantastic FMC for me. I loved her personality, especially how sassy and strong-willed she could be. She was exactly the kind of character I wanted to follow throughout the story.
Rueben was another highlight. His character arc was particularly interesting to watch, and I really enjoyed seeing how he changed throughout the book. His development felt like an important part of the story, and I loved seeing where it took him.
The dynamic between Elle and Reuben was also such a joy to read. Their interactions kept me entertained, and I really enjoyed seeing their connection evolve throughout the story.
The whole book was just so adorable that I reached the end wishing I had more time in that world. I became so attached to the characters and to the story that I genuinely didn’t want to finish it.
A charming little fantasy with a lovely fairytale atmosphere, characters I couldn’t help but fall for, and a story that left me with a big smile by the end.
I loved EVERY. SINGLE. MINUTE. of this book! 🎃🧡 It completely pulled me out of my reading slump, and once I started, I genuinely could not put it down!
When I saw this was a Cinderella retelling, I went in expecting it to be somewhat predictable… boy, was I wrong. 😂 I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, constantly wondering what was going to happen next. And the little details and nods that pay tribute to Cinderella? CHEF’S KISS. 👏🏻✨ I loved discovering them along the way!
And then there’s Elle and Rueben. 😭❤️ Their slow-burn romance and adorable banter had me absolutely hooked. Their relationship reminded me so much of Divine Rivals, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned about myself, it’s that I CRAVE love stories with that kind of slow building tension, emotional connection, and banter.
I went into this book hoping for a fun fairytale retelling and came out completely obsessed.
Needless to say, I think I need to immediately dive into Rebecca L. Garcia’s entire backlist because I NEED MORE. 😂📚
Rebecca, you have officially gained another very enthusiastic reader! 🧡🎃
Do you like enemies-to-lovers, funny banter, and a heroine who is a capable badass? Then this is a must-read!!
I absolutely loved this book. It has Cinderella vibes, but it is a very different type of story. Every nod to the classic fairy tale made me smile and fall in love with this story even more.
The writing style and the story itself made it very easy to get lost in this world. Elle has a strong personality, and it was very fun to watch her fall for Rueben's charm. Rueben also had a very interesting arc. His journey from a pampered prince to a somewhat capable working-class man was very well done.
Their conversation about their past and why Elle hates him so much brought tears to my eyes. It was very well written, and I truly felt for these characters.
This book made me emotional, had me laughing out loud, and made me sad when it was over.
Once this book comes out, it will look wonderful in my bookcase, and I will definitely be reading it again.
🧡This new fantasy with Cinderella vibes was such a sweet and cozy story!🧡
The banter between the FMC and MMC during their fake dating and forced proximity was so good, absolutely loved it! Watching Rueben and Elle’s relationship growth was just so sweet and heartwarming. Elle was so reluctant but oooh Rueben, how can one resist him?! I sure couldn’t. The storyline kept me engaged, holding my interest and eagerness to keep reading and to see everything unfold. I loved all the magic woven throughout this story and the references to fairytales. I would especially love my very own pocket dragon😆
🥧👑A spoiled prince and a baker whose life he ruined are forced to work together to break a spell that binds them… who wouldn’t eat this up!
I definitely recommend this one for anyone looking for a sweet, cozy, magical story!
Epic adventure, drama, and misconceptions meets cozy bakery vibes where she teaches him and he teaches her. They went from being completely wrong for one another to swoon worthy perfection. I absolutely loved that Ella could not stand this man and made him do the work to show that maybe she had the wrong idea about this pampered prince. It was also so nostalgic for me! It didnt feeling like a Disney vibe but from the people who made thumbelina and Anastasia which imo is the superior fairytale creators. It was cozy but also pulled on the heartstrings and filled to the brim with soooo much magic and whimsy. I adored it and a special shout out for smudge who just wants to dance and eat pies. Like same. I loved it!
Disclosure, Cinderella is my favourite princess so I had high expectations for this one! And boy was it good. The for ed proximity while on the run was literally so good! The tension and batter just got better and better.
This is one of my top cozy fantasy books. It was so easy to fall into this world and the magic wasn’t overly complicated. Elle being a baker was such a good twist from the original fairytale. And the prince had such a good character arc, the way he slowly fell into love and showed his love with acts of service was so sweet!! Also honourable mention for Smudge the pocket dragon 🐉 I would like a pet dragon thank you!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
🧁 forced proximity ✨ fated by magic 🧁 pretend marriage ✨ only one bed (multiple times) 🧁 cozy fantasy
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the interesting twist on this story. Elle being the one that was kind of bad (for a moment) and having to come to terms with forgiveness and being kind?? Yes please!
I do wish we had a little backstory on Sorman to see how he became the black sheep of the family and lost his chance at the crown.
I do want a bit more of a story with Thok, Gronk, and Bunka as well. How did they go about getting the inn? How did they keep it? Did they really know something was amiss with Marius and Ana?
But I do love that we get the happy ending with Reuben and Elle. I love that she’s still a baker and he is perfectly content with who she is. He doesn’t try to change her. But does he take the lessons he learned and bring those into his duties as Prince? 🤔
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This enemies to lovers, Cinderella x Frog Prince retelling was so much fun to read, it’s cozy, funny, and truly captivating I couldn’t put it down. The story follows Elle the baker and Rueben the spoiled Prince after their fates are tied to each other, forcing them to work together to break the spell. The author does a great job of incorporating the Cinderella and frog Prince elements into the storyline without it being overwhelming and taking away from this stories plot and characters. This book left me not wanting it end but also happy with the ending it did have
2.5/5 🌶️ 4.5/5 ⭐️
**Thank you Rebecca L. Garcia for the opportunity to read and review this for you it was a magical and fun experience**
This story has a wonderful fairytale quality to it, and I loved how the Cinderella influences were woven into the plot without feeling out of place.
Elle immediately stood out to me with her sassy attitude and strong personality, while Rueben surprised me with how enjoyable his growth was to follow. Their dynamic made the story even more fun, and I really liked seeing where their relationship went.
Everything about this book was just so cute and easy to get lost in. By the time I reached the end, I honestly wished I could stay in this world a little longer.
A lovely little fantasy that was simply a pleasure to read.
This was one of those stories you just don't want to end. I set the book down multiple times to stretch it out. The world building is so immersive you just want to stay a while. I will definitely be begging for more stories in this world! For anyone who follows this Author Cozy fantasy is so far from her normal style but she totally knocked it out of the park. The characters are so sweet. Not just the main characters either.The side characters need their own stories now. The inn is a magical place and I need more of the sunken city! I 100% recommend for anyone who loves cozy fantasy with a little spice.
That was such a refreshing name for a male character and it fit him so well.
I loved that Elle bakes, my mother is also a phenomenal baker and every time Elle went down memory lane being in the kitchen with her mother, I was taken back to my childhood. I could smell the smells and visualize them moving in the kitchen.
This is a standalone and I’d definitely recommend it to those looking for fall cozy vibes or those who love to read fantasy, but may not want to commit to a trilogy or saga!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This was a sweet and cozy Cinderella retelling with lots of magic intertwined. You follow Elle and Rueben (such a nice name for the MMC) on their forced proximity adventure. It was adorable to watch their relationship blossom throughout the book. It was fun to see all the Cinderella references sprinkled throughout the book. However, the book still can stand on its own feet by being unique so you don't (70) get bored!
Tropes - one bed - forced dating / forced proximity - he's the sunshine 😉 - banter - one horse - standalone
Very thankful to receive my first ARC from this author!
Thank you Rebecca L. García for this wonderful ARC.
Format: standalone
This is the kind of read that fills your heart. It was sweet, it was fun—the perfect cozy fantasy. Is it spicy? Yes, but very mildly so. This is a Cinderella retelling, but the original story isn't heavily obscured. Far from working against the narrative, it is cleverly woven into the new plot. The thing I enjoyed the most was that the prince was very useless 😅 (at the beginning). Elle was an admirable character; she fought so hard for her happiness and for what she deserved.
This book is a cozy autumn Cinderella retelling, slow burn and slow to fall in love romance, surrounded by risk of danger and magical creatures. The last 50% of this book had me in a chokehold waiting for the ending.
There is a lot of time spent showing their slow progress to find beauty in each other, a lot of focus around baking for about 25% of the book, which did become tedious and a bit boring until I reached around 50% and the story really took off. The ending was wonderful, I loved all of the Cinderella snippets slipped in there. All in all a good cozy read with mild spice.
I really enjoyed this book. I literally finished it in 2 hours. Reuben is actually really sweet, love his character development, he actually wanted to improve. Love him and also love Elle. She is a great FMC. Whitty, funny, headstrong, really liked all the important side characters too and liked how it ended. Great story and really grateful to receive the ARC for this book. I will be reading more from this author especially in this standalone series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
(ARC reader) ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! It felt just like reading a fairy tale. The way the main characters fell in love felt genuine and not at all rushed. Despite being a Cinderella retelling, it didn't feel repetitive; the author managed to infuse it with her own essence and make it special. It was a very sweet read, perfect for finishing in one sitting. It left me wanting to read more by the author!
This was the perfect ARC read to get me in the mood for fall. Its an adorable kinda/sorta retelling/take on the Cinderella story. It includes evil sorcers, orcs, spoiled princes, pocket dragons and bratty stepsisters. I definitely liked this version better than the original as I love a heroine that saves herself. If you want a light, sweet, steamy (eventually) fun fairytale to get you in the mood for all things cozy and fall, check this one out.
Such a great book! Great job. I really enjoyed this. I went in without knowing anything about it and I was on the edge from the very beginning. Thanks for a great read.
I liked how the last chapter worked out. I think it was well written and done. It wasn't just placed there as a just because it's supposed to happen but because it actually needed to be there.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is a Cinderella retelling & is so much fun! It’s a quick read & perfect for fall/autumn. This is a standalone so if you’re in between reads or need a palate cleanser, this would be perfect.
I loved how sassy & independent our FMC Elle was & how boyish & “charming” our MMC Reuben was. Their adventure was super cute & just an overall good time
This book was outstanding! The detail the author put into it was great! The story telling immediately sucked me in and I loved it. It reminded me of the movie Ella enchanted in a way. It was a twist on Cinderella and what an amazing twist she did! I absolutely love when people remake Disney movies! I can’t wait to read all of the other books she has written!
•ARC reader• I got the chance to read this book early and it did not dissapoint. It kept me engaged and finished it in less than a day as well. The book is well written and the story actually feels good paced. I felt like I got to know the characters a bit better and there was no rushing at the end. I’m keeping an eye on this author and possible future retellings <3
*ARC Review* Review of advanced reader copy from author!
Overall, such a wonderful book. I read it in a day! I’m so thankful to be able to receive the ARC. I adore the cozy fantasy atmosphere that the author created. The fairytale aspect was so fun! I really loved the characters and their relationship growth. They had me both smiling and giggling.
This was a cozy take on Cinderella with hidden bakery in the forest vibes. This is perfect for someone looking for a short, unproblematic, HEA romance.
I enjoyed a lot of the cute moments between the FMC and MMC but ultimately struggled with the pacing of the story and some of the character development. Not my favorite Cinderella retelling, but a nice afternoon spent nevertheless.
I wasn't sure what to expect since this was my first time reading a book with fairytale based characters but I was pleasantly surprised. Loved the nods to cinderella while the author still made it her own. Fated to the Pumpkin Prince flowed the entire time even with forced proximity. Cute read for fall 🍂 🎃