What do you think?
Rate this book
Flipped Fairy Tales #1
Shadows on Snow
Once upon a time, a dark evil crept into my kingdom, stealing my loved ones and the happy life I knew. The world turned against me, and I swore to become stronger, to keep myself safe.
Once upon a time, there was a handsome prince, hair dark as ebony, skin as pure as the freshly driven snow, and I became the only one who stood between him and death.
Once upon a time, our stories intertwined, and now, healing my heart may be the only way to save us all from the evil that threatens to destroy what little we have left.
Once upon a time, there was a handsome prince, hair dark as ebony, skin as pure as the freshly driven snow, and I became the only one who stood between him and death.
Once upon a time, our stories intertwined, and now, healing my heart may be the only way to save us all from the evil that threatens to destroy what little we have left.
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published November 3, 2014
28 people are currently reading
2642 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
December 18, 2014
First of all, let us take a moment to bask in the glory of this cover. Bask. It is glorious. The author is a graphic designer and has a whole side business in designing glorious book covers. I plan on using her myself, when I finally get some things finished and ready to publish again (soon, I promise! There will be seven. See what I did there?).
Second, let me just say that I'm pretty sure that pretty much everything that feminists and their sympathizers have ever found to hate about fairy tales in general, and the tale of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in particular, is addressed and corrected in Starla Hutchton's Shadows on Snow: A Flipped Fairy Tale . And not just because the genders of the rescued and the rescuer are flipped. Oh no.
So yes, the innocent and beautiful Snow White is, in this book, an almost ridiculously handsome prince. And he gets rescued by a princess. Dur. But wait, there's more.
Because the dwarfs, too, are gender flipped, but are also turned into something much more than mere caretakers of/providers of refuge for the hapless victim character. The seven in this tale are women. Moreover, they are magic users. Moreover, they are princesses. And the rescuing princess is one of them.
Already we're seeing fantastic levels of agency in the characters and an enrichment of the original Snow White plot that is wonderful to see. For these seven magical princesses have a deep and plot-relevant back story; the wicked stepfather (yes, more flipping. Starla flips it all, yo) has done his dirty deeds before, has a pattern of wickedness and sorcery, and these seven princesses were orphaned and exiled from their wonderful kingdom in the wicked stepfather's last go-around.
But this is all just background to the drama of the seventh and youngest princess, Rae, and her prince, Leopold, he of the skin white as snow and hair black as ebony -- but also he of considerable wisdom, kindness, martial prowess and all around quality. Snow White in the original tale is beautiful and innocent and kind, but Leopold could lead an army into war, yo. But he still winds up needing saving, because he doesn't know much about magic. Good thing for him Rae does.
But Rae also is not just a magic user. She's a fully rounded kickass heroine in the Katniss Everdine mode, with outdoor survival skills, a talent for managing horses, and believable vulnerabilities that keep her interesting even as she enacts the obvious fairy tale plot.
And this is key, when you're retelling classic fairy tales and legends. We know the story. We know the plot twists, know how it's going to end. We need reasons other than suspense to be bothered with reading the story yet again, and really, for this reader, said reasons need to go way beyond just "well, what if Snow White was a boy and he got rescued by Princess Charming."
On this, Ms. Hutchton absolutely delivers. Every character (well, except maybe the Voldemort-ish wicked stepfather, who is more of a looming threat than an actual presence in most of the novel, perhaps to the book's slight detriment, but oh well) is well-developed and unique. The novel length gives the author the chance to really explore the story's world, its politics, its history, its sexual dynamics, its humanity.
I'm pretty sure this is my favorite thing Ms. Hutchton has done. I am happily ever after.
Second, let me just say that I'm pretty sure that pretty much everything that feminists and their sympathizers have ever found to hate about fairy tales in general, and the tale of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" in particular, is addressed and corrected in Starla Hutchton's Shadows on Snow: A Flipped Fairy Tale . And not just because the genders of the rescued and the rescuer are flipped. Oh no.
So yes, the innocent and beautiful Snow White is, in this book, an almost ridiculously handsome prince. And he gets rescued by a princess. Dur. But wait, there's more.
Because the dwarfs, too, are gender flipped, but are also turned into something much more than mere caretakers of/providers of refuge for the hapless victim character. The seven in this tale are women. Moreover, they are magic users. Moreover, they are princesses. And the rescuing princess is one of them.
Already we're seeing fantastic levels of agency in the characters and an enrichment of the original Snow White plot that is wonderful to see. For these seven magical princesses have a deep and plot-relevant back story; the wicked stepfather (yes, more flipping. Starla flips it all, yo) has done his dirty deeds before, has a pattern of wickedness and sorcery, and these seven princesses were orphaned and exiled from their wonderful kingdom in the wicked stepfather's last go-around.
But this is all just background to the drama of the seventh and youngest princess, Rae, and her prince, Leopold, he of the skin white as snow and hair black as ebony -- but also he of considerable wisdom, kindness, martial prowess and all around quality. Snow White in the original tale is beautiful and innocent and kind, but Leopold could lead an army into war, yo. But he still winds up needing saving, because he doesn't know much about magic. Good thing for him Rae does.
But Rae also is not just a magic user. She's a fully rounded kickass heroine in the Katniss Everdine mode, with outdoor survival skills, a talent for managing horses, and believable vulnerabilities that keep her interesting even as she enacts the obvious fairy tale plot.
And this is key, when you're retelling classic fairy tales and legends. We know the story. We know the plot twists, know how it's going to end. We need reasons other than suspense to be bothered with reading the story yet again, and really, for this reader, said reasons need to go way beyond just "well, what if Snow White was a boy and he got rescued by Princess Charming."
On this, Ms. Hutchton absolutely delivers. Every character (well, except maybe the Voldemort-ish wicked stepfather, who is more of a looming threat than an actual presence in most of the novel, perhaps to the book's slight detriment, but oh well) is well-developed and unique. The novel length gives the author the chance to really explore the story's world, its politics, its history, its sexual dynamics, its humanity.
I'm pretty sure this is my favorite thing Ms. Hutchton has done. I am happily ever after.
May 22, 2017
Lately I’ve been ambushed by deadlines after deadlines at work; this is why it took me so long to finish this short fairy tale retelling novel (not because it was so bad that I couldn’t devour it like I had done with my beloved books before). To make the full use of a few days in which I wasn’t busy doing my tasks, I decided to resume my reading and finished this book with just one quick read in the morning :)) And I must say I am thoroughly satisfied with this first book in the “Flipped Fairy Tales” series by Starla Huchton (doesn’t her name sound gorgeous and fairy tale-like, too? :D)
So as you can see from the cover, “Shadows on Snow” is a retelling of the beloved classic fairy tale “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”. But the author didn’t follow the same old storyline that we all know; she flipped it, as the name of the series suggest, to bring us a Prince who had skin as white as snow, hair as black as the wood, and lips as red as blood. The Seven Dwarfs were replaced by seven Princesses, and I must say I couldn’t be happier with this 180 degree change :D
Once upon a time, in Sericae kingdom, there was a King and a Queen who gave birth to a son, named Prince Leopold - a.k.a. The “Snow White” Prince. Unfortunately, the King died before his son reached proper age to become the next ruler of Sericae. The young Prince was sent to army camp most of his young life to be trained as a soldier, and couldn’t take his throne until he reached the age of 18. During that turbulent time, Queen Muriel - Prince Leopold’s mother - tried her best to rule the kingdom, but soon must marry again - this time to King Alder of a neighboring kingdom - in order to unite two countries and make Sericae strong. Ever since that marriage, Queen Muriel started to become ill and was slowly drifting to her death.
Princess Raelynn of Bern - the youngest of seven Princesses - used her magic to create a glamour that allowed her to disguise as a stable boy in Sericae, in order to help her save the dying Queen. It is later and gradually revealed that Bern - the kingdom of the seven Princesses - was taken by King Alder, an evil sorcerer, in the same manner as he was trying to take Sericae kingdom: by marrying the kingdom’s widowed Queen and then used his dark magic to poison her so that he could take the throne for himself. The seven Princesses must flee into the woods and fake their deaths, but not before Raelynn was sexually assaulted by Alder.
Yep, this is not the normal fairy tale for kids; this is fairy tale for adults, with darkness and pains and a young heroine that was severely broken. Due to her inability to protect her mother, her people in Bern, and later Queen Muriel, from the evil Alder, Raelynn always doubted and blamed herself, not knowing that she was in possession of a much greater power that could help her defeat Alder and save Prince Leopold.
Because of the gruesome memory of being unable to protect herself from the sexual assault caused by Alder, Raelynn always defied her femininity, thinking that being a beautiful woman brought her no strength. And it pained me to see her like this, to see her unable to realize there are many types of strength, and that there is strength in beauty. And because of that memory, that horrible experience, she found herself impure and fearful of men, of their touch and intentions. And that fear made her push Prince Leopold away from her when he tried to get close to her, when they both realized there was love blossoming between them.
So to Raelynn - our brave and talented heroine - this journey of defeating Alder wasn’t just about doing the right thing and destroying the darkness, but also about her learning how to rely on others; how to see strength in different situations and different things; how to value herself, to embrace the greatness she had inside her; and to know that not all men were like Alder, to truly open up her heart and let Prince Leopold’s love wash all that painful memories away. I love how the author wasn’t just telling a fairy tale as it was, with battles and plans and magic; she also created a character that we can care for, root for and follow in her own journey of self growth and conquering her fears, one by one.
Oh, and there are some beautiful, romantic and thought-provoking quotes that I must share with you in my review. So so good!!!
“Love, dearest one. Its magic heals all things in time,” she said. “But it only works if you let it in. That’s the hardest part.”
“My godmother, Aurelia, she used to tell me stories. Once, she spoke of twin souls, two who were made to match. I asked her how it was possible to know such a thing, as the idea of missing that was far more terrifying to me than her stories about dragons and trolls. Do you know what she said to me? Warmth on the coldest of nights. Courage in the face of any fear. Drawn to one another as though all of humanity has vanished. All of those things, Rae, this is what you are to me. Will you tell me true? Am I alone in these feelings?”
“I love you, Raelynn,” he said. “Elegant gown or battle-worn uniform, you will have my heart forever.”
“We all eventually find that life is a series of adjustments, but anything can be overcome when there is love around you. One can be strong on their own, but there is greater strength in knowing when to rely on others.”
I’ll definitely read other books in this “Flipped Fairy Tales” series :))
So as you can see from the cover, “Shadows on Snow” is a retelling of the beloved classic fairy tale “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”. But the author didn’t follow the same old storyline that we all know; she flipped it, as the name of the series suggest, to bring us a Prince who had skin as white as snow, hair as black as the wood, and lips as red as blood. The Seven Dwarfs were replaced by seven Princesses, and I must say I couldn’t be happier with this 180 degree change :D
Once upon a time, in Sericae kingdom, there was a King and a Queen who gave birth to a son, named Prince Leopold - a.k.a. The “Snow White” Prince. Unfortunately, the King died before his son reached proper age to become the next ruler of Sericae. The young Prince was sent to army camp most of his young life to be trained as a soldier, and couldn’t take his throne until he reached the age of 18. During that turbulent time, Queen Muriel - Prince Leopold’s mother - tried her best to rule the kingdom, but soon must marry again - this time to King Alder of a neighboring kingdom - in order to unite two countries and make Sericae strong. Ever since that marriage, Queen Muriel started to become ill and was slowly drifting to her death.
Princess Raelynn of Bern - the youngest of seven Princesses - used her magic to create a glamour that allowed her to disguise as a stable boy in Sericae, in order to help her save the dying Queen. It is later and gradually revealed that Bern - the kingdom of the seven Princesses - was taken by King Alder, an evil sorcerer, in the same manner as he was trying to take Sericae kingdom: by marrying the kingdom’s widowed Queen and then used his dark magic to poison her so that he could take the throne for himself. The seven Princesses must flee into the woods and fake their deaths, but not before Raelynn was sexually assaulted by Alder.
Yep, this is not the normal fairy tale for kids; this is fairy tale for adults, with darkness and pains and a young heroine that was severely broken. Due to her inability to protect her mother, her people in Bern, and later Queen Muriel, from the evil Alder, Raelynn always doubted and blamed herself, not knowing that she was in possession of a much greater power that could help her defeat Alder and save Prince Leopold.
Because of the gruesome memory of being unable to protect herself from the sexual assault caused by Alder, Raelynn always defied her femininity, thinking that being a beautiful woman brought her no strength. And it pained me to see her like this, to see her unable to realize there are many types of strength, and that there is strength in beauty. And because of that memory, that horrible experience, she found herself impure and fearful of men, of their touch and intentions. And that fear made her push Prince Leopold away from her when he tried to get close to her, when they both realized there was love blossoming between them.
So to Raelynn - our brave and talented heroine - this journey of defeating Alder wasn’t just about doing the right thing and destroying the darkness, but also about her learning how to rely on others; how to see strength in different situations and different things; how to value herself, to embrace the greatness she had inside her; and to know that not all men were like Alder, to truly open up her heart and let Prince Leopold’s love wash all that painful memories away. I love how the author wasn’t just telling a fairy tale as it was, with battles and plans and magic; she also created a character that we can care for, root for and follow in her own journey of self growth and conquering her fears, one by one.
Oh, and there are some beautiful, romantic and thought-provoking quotes that I must share with you in my review. So so good!!!
“Love, dearest one. Its magic heals all things in time,” she said. “But it only works if you let it in. That’s the hardest part.”
“My godmother, Aurelia, she used to tell me stories. Once, she spoke of twin souls, two who were made to match. I asked her how it was possible to know such a thing, as the idea of missing that was far more terrifying to me than her stories about dragons and trolls. Do you know what she said to me? Warmth on the coldest of nights. Courage in the face of any fear. Drawn to one another as though all of humanity has vanished. All of those things, Rae, this is what you are to me. Will you tell me true? Am I alone in these feelings?”
“I love you, Raelynn,” he said. “Elegant gown or battle-worn uniform, you will have my heart forever.”
“We all eventually find that life is a series of adjustments, but anything can be overcome when there is love around you. One can be strong on their own, but there is greater strength in knowing when to rely on others.”
I’ll definitely read other books in this “Flipped Fairy Tales” series :))
November 17, 2014
In a re-imagined Snow White, a young prince is forced from his home and ends up seeking the help of seven sisters.
First and foremost, this story is a romance. I am not a fan of romance, and I expected this to be a more drawn out version of the old fairy tale, with lots of new twists and turns along the way. So my review may seem a little harsh, and I apologize, but I dislike romance novels.
This story has very little in common with Snow White. I love re-imagined fairy tales, and I love seeing the characters used in a different way. This one seems to incorporate a bit of Cinderella (with masked balls and fairy godmothers), as well as a few lines quoted out of The Princess Bride (as you wish, and where is that secret knot). There are no dwarves. Instead, we get seven magical sisters. There is no evil queen. In her place we have a murderous king. These changes are fine, but they brought the level of fantasy down into a more realistic setting. With more believable scenarios, I felt like it lost some whimsy. I like a fantasy villain to have super powers and be dead set against an opponent. This guy seemed lazy in his attempt to usurp the throne.
I appreciated Rae’s character, as she is the strong female lead. However, she seems to be strong only because she has to. At any moment, she’s about to collapse into the arms of her prince charming. The prince made me want to puke. He is a complete idiot and far more interested in chasing skirt than in regaining his stolen kingdom. After a while, I found myself rooting for the bad guy.
Though the story opens with a promise of a magical adventure and whimsical fairy tale style writing, it turns out to have very little action. It’s mostly sneaking around and secret plots with a budding romance between Raelynn and Prince Leopold. The romance itself is the sappiest kind. The driveling idiot prince basically says “the two of us were made for each other, stop denying it”. And the girl replies with something like “I must deny it, or I’ll have to give into my true desires”. A real romance where two people grow to love each other is all right, even though I’m not a fan of the genre. But romances where two characters are destined for one another and fall in love at first glance doesn’t work when the characters are presented as real people. By taking out so much of the fantasy, I thought the author wanted a more realistic approach. She left in the magic, which is great, but she added this fantasy romance that has been done to death. I just didn’t like that part.
The writing is good, and the story had a lot of potential. With more action and less fawning over each other, I think it could have been something I would love.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
First and foremost, this story is a romance. I am not a fan of romance, and I expected this to be a more drawn out version of the old fairy tale, with lots of new twists and turns along the way. So my review may seem a little harsh, and I apologize, but I dislike romance novels.
This story has very little in common with Snow White. I love re-imagined fairy tales, and I love seeing the characters used in a different way. This one seems to incorporate a bit of Cinderella (with masked balls and fairy godmothers), as well as a few lines quoted out of The Princess Bride (as you wish, and where is that secret knot). There are no dwarves. Instead, we get seven magical sisters. There is no evil queen. In her place we have a murderous king. These changes are fine, but they brought the level of fantasy down into a more realistic setting. With more believable scenarios, I felt like it lost some whimsy. I like a fantasy villain to have super powers and be dead set against an opponent. This guy seemed lazy in his attempt to usurp the throne.
I appreciated Rae’s character, as she is the strong female lead. However, she seems to be strong only because she has to. At any moment, she’s about to collapse into the arms of her prince charming. The prince made me want to puke. He is a complete idiot and far more interested in chasing skirt than in regaining his stolen kingdom. After a while, I found myself rooting for the bad guy.
Though the story opens with a promise of a magical adventure and whimsical fairy tale style writing, it turns out to have very little action. It’s mostly sneaking around and secret plots with a budding romance between Raelynn and Prince Leopold. The romance itself is the sappiest kind. The driveling idiot prince basically says “the two of us were made for each other, stop denying it”. And the girl replies with something like “I must deny it, or I’ll have to give into my true desires”. A real romance where two people grow to love each other is all right, even though I’m not a fan of the genre. But romances where two characters are destined for one another and fall in love at first glance doesn’t work when the characters are presented as real people. By taking out so much of the fantasy, I thought the author wanted a more realistic approach. She left in the magic, which is great, but she added this fantasy romance that has been done to death. I just didn’t like that part.
The writing is good, and the story had a lot of potential. With more action and less fawning over each other, I think it could have been something I would love.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2014
Greetings folks!
Yes, I really did get picked to enjoy an ARC copy of "Shadows on Snow". So if you are curious if this tale is to your taste, I will do my best to help you decide. I will break this review down into two parts. The first will be my over-all impressions of the story and will only contain the very basics of character and plot information such as the dust jacket would have. The second half, after a nice gap, will discuss the tale in more length and will likely have spoilers. Sometimes people who are on the fence really need to know the nitty-gritty details to see if a book falls into their love over hate categories. So, you have been warned and I will throw up the spoilers warning. Fair enough? Okay then.
First off, I'm going to go straight to the cover art. I love this cover SO MUCH! I believe it captures the spirit of the book incredibly well. The inside cover gives the full title of "Shadows on Snow: A Flipped Fairy Tale" and that is important as this is the theme of the entire series. I wanted to read this book because I adore mythology. Fairy tales are strongly linked to local myths and have very powerful images, lessons, and archetypes in them. That said, I have seen ones that capture that primal feeling and others that miss the mark so wide, the story and characters should simply have been renamed. I made Starla nervous because I told her I would compare this to the market scene in Stardust by Neil Gaiman. That particular scene with the scented glass flowers created by the fae and their strange prices had the proper feel of old fairy. Not the entire book, but that scene thrummed with it.
So, this book is not like Stardust. It does not quite hit that mark-but it comes very, very close. The powers mentioned in the tale have a proper old fairy feel to them as do the gifts granted at birth to the main character. The latter are required for the proper set-up to the tale, but Starla Huchton does take the time to include them. It feels very proper for the opening and setting. I would dare to say it is warmer, sweeter, and more personal than the standard archetype tales of old fairy tales. Those ones have little time to lay in a great deal of backstory or add twists or special touches. The originals are generally brief brushstrokes showing us a beautiful minimalist painting. Starla fills in the canvas with a rich tapestry of colors and characters.
Starla is not telling a single fairy tale per se in her book, there are set-ups and weaving done to allow this tale to connect to others in the series. The theme of this one is "Snow White", however, I will say it feels as if you get two for the price of one the way this one reads. Her spin on the dwarves is quite interesting. My one disappointment is that the flipped tale does not focus on her version of Snow White, it falls upon the outside perspective of the true friend and ally in dark times.
Now, past the lovely candy coating, there are dark and serious issues discussed in this book as well. I would say there is a mild trigger warning for some of you if you are highly sensitive to such themes. However, they are handled beautifully, there is a great emotional journey towards healing in the tale that does not happen overnight and a great lesson that someone can be strong even if they have been hurt and have that chink in their armor. There is great bravery performed by the main character that has nothing to do with physical battle. There will be action in the tale as well, but there is an incredible, poignant beauty in following a character that wants so badly to help someone that they go through their own personal fire for it. That version of 'the journey through the underworld' I think is well worth the purchase of this book.
**Spoilers begin, they start lightly but will get a bit heavier**
Of our "Snow White", there is an equally beautiful side of seeing what the fairy gift of patience does for aiding in that healing. Okay, as you probably got from the "flipped fairy tale", our Snow White is a prince not a princess. Starla does a lovely job of capturing a man granted the graces of beauty, patience, and charisma. Despite all these things, the young prince returns home after a few years of mandatory military service to find he feels much like a stranger in his own home. So much of the staff has changed, he doesn't really have anyone he can trust, but he finds someone he realizes is worthy of his trust in a stable boy who takes as much pains with his horse as he does.
The boy is more than he seems and is the main character of the narrative. Tasked with trying to save the life of the queen who is very ill, the boy needs to find a way to get into the palace to ascertain the cause of the illness and then return with a cure-from the seven sister witches that help guide him. All of this leads into the steps of a secondary fairy tale that merges with the main narrative well.
I found the book highly entertaining and wound up losing sleep trying to finish the second half. It's been a while since a book has made me want to turn the pages that way. My only complaint is the single point-of-view narrative. I would dearly, dearly have loved to have seen the world through Prince Leo's eyes at least a couple of times. That lack does not detract in any way from the wonderful tale that is here, and given the poignant and healthy life lessons included in the tale I would recommend it for tweens and teens as well as adults. It is not a children's story. It is a very important story and takes its time, in a very real way, bringing the main character to a place of strength. While the prince helps with that, he does not solve the issue for the main character. It's a powerful tale written in a style that is easy to fall into and enjoy.
Go pick this one up. It's a keeper.
Yes, I really did get picked to enjoy an ARC copy of "Shadows on Snow". So if you are curious if this tale is to your taste, I will do my best to help you decide. I will break this review down into two parts. The first will be my over-all impressions of the story and will only contain the very basics of character and plot information such as the dust jacket would have. The second half, after a nice gap, will discuss the tale in more length and will likely have spoilers. Sometimes people who are on the fence really need to know the nitty-gritty details to see if a book falls into their love over hate categories. So, you have been warned and I will throw up the spoilers warning. Fair enough? Okay then.
First off, I'm going to go straight to the cover art. I love this cover SO MUCH! I believe it captures the spirit of the book incredibly well. The inside cover gives the full title of "Shadows on Snow: A Flipped Fairy Tale" and that is important as this is the theme of the entire series. I wanted to read this book because I adore mythology. Fairy tales are strongly linked to local myths and have very powerful images, lessons, and archetypes in them. That said, I have seen ones that capture that primal feeling and others that miss the mark so wide, the story and characters should simply have been renamed. I made Starla nervous because I told her I would compare this to the market scene in Stardust by Neil Gaiman. That particular scene with the scented glass flowers created by the fae and their strange prices had the proper feel of old fairy. Not the entire book, but that scene thrummed with it.
So, this book is not like Stardust. It does not quite hit that mark-but it comes very, very close. The powers mentioned in the tale have a proper old fairy feel to them as do the gifts granted at birth to the main character. The latter are required for the proper set-up to the tale, but Starla Huchton does take the time to include them. It feels very proper for the opening and setting. I would dare to say it is warmer, sweeter, and more personal than the standard archetype tales of old fairy tales. Those ones have little time to lay in a great deal of backstory or add twists or special touches. The originals are generally brief brushstrokes showing us a beautiful minimalist painting. Starla fills in the canvas with a rich tapestry of colors and characters.
Starla is not telling a single fairy tale per se in her book, there are set-ups and weaving done to allow this tale to connect to others in the series. The theme of this one is "Snow White", however, I will say it feels as if you get two for the price of one the way this one reads. Her spin on the dwarves is quite interesting. My one disappointment is that the flipped tale does not focus on her version of Snow White, it falls upon the outside perspective of the true friend and ally in dark times.
Now, past the lovely candy coating, there are dark and serious issues discussed in this book as well. I would say there is a mild trigger warning for some of you if you are highly sensitive to such themes. However, they are handled beautifully, there is a great emotional journey towards healing in the tale that does not happen overnight and a great lesson that someone can be strong even if they have been hurt and have that chink in their armor. There is great bravery performed by the main character that has nothing to do with physical battle. There will be action in the tale as well, but there is an incredible, poignant beauty in following a character that wants so badly to help someone that they go through their own personal fire for it. That version of 'the journey through the underworld' I think is well worth the purchase of this book.
**Spoilers begin, they start lightly but will get a bit heavier**
Of our "Snow White", there is an equally beautiful side of seeing what the fairy gift of patience does for aiding in that healing. Okay, as you probably got from the "flipped fairy tale", our Snow White is a prince not a princess. Starla does a lovely job of capturing a man granted the graces of beauty, patience, and charisma. Despite all these things, the young prince returns home after a few years of mandatory military service to find he feels much like a stranger in his own home. So much of the staff has changed, he doesn't really have anyone he can trust, but he finds someone he realizes is worthy of his trust in a stable boy who takes as much pains with his horse as he does.
The boy is more than he seems and is the main character of the narrative. Tasked with trying to save the life of the queen who is very ill, the boy needs to find a way to get into the palace to ascertain the cause of the illness and then return with a cure-from the seven sister witches that help guide him. All of this leads into the steps of a secondary fairy tale that merges with the main narrative well.
I found the book highly entertaining and wound up losing sleep trying to finish the second half. It's been a while since a book has made me want to turn the pages that way. My only complaint is the single point-of-view narrative. I would dearly, dearly have loved to have seen the world through Prince Leo's eyes at least a couple of times. That lack does not detract in any way from the wonderful tale that is here, and given the poignant and healthy life lessons included in the tale I would recommend it for tweens and teens as well as adults. It is not a children's story. It is a very important story and takes its time, in a very real way, bringing the main character to a place of strength. While the prince helps with that, he does not solve the issue for the main character. It's a powerful tale written in a style that is easy to fall into and enjoy.
Go pick this one up. It's a keeper.
February 25, 2023
This novel does a gender-reversal take on the story of Snow White. Instead of seven dwarves, there are seven disgraced princesses with magical powers, with the youngest on a mission to save a certain young prince. It's an interesting take on the traditional fairy tale and while it was okay as a read, I never felt truly invested in the characters and their fates.
November 14, 2014
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
Let me start off by saying that Ms. Huchton just has a way with creating memorable characters-- the kind that stick with you long after the novel is over. The last book I read by her was in an entirely different genre. I am blown away by her ability to capture the heart of each genre so well. Shadows on Snow is a gender-flipped fairy tale based on Snow White. In this tale, Snow White is a prince named Leo, and the hero is a girl named Rae.
Rae was just amazing. The trials and tribulations she was willing to endure to fight for what she believed in were impressive. She had not led an easy life in any way, shape, or form-- yet instead of wallowing in misery, she pushed forward, trying to help others and defeat evil. Leo was the embodiment of goodness and light--strong and kind, though rather weak against magic of any kind. Rae became his protector in his hour of need, and that man really needed her.
The story is full of intrigue, magic, suspense, and romance. I loved the rich descriptions which drew me so far into the story that I lost track of time. The characters were great, though I wish we had seen a bit more of the villain. He wasn't in it much which made the final battle rather anticlimactic. I thought the novel started on the slow side, and I had a tough time getting into it until about 1/4 of the way through. After that, the pacing picked up, sucking me in.
If you haven't read anything by Ms. Huchton, I highly suggest you give one of her books a try. So far I've really enjoyed everything I've read.
Let me start off by saying that Ms. Huchton just has a way with creating memorable characters-- the kind that stick with you long after the novel is over. The last book I read by her was in an entirely different genre. I am blown away by her ability to capture the heart of each genre so well. Shadows on Snow is a gender-flipped fairy tale based on Snow White. In this tale, Snow White is a prince named Leo, and the hero is a girl named Rae.
Rae was just amazing. The trials and tribulations she was willing to endure to fight for what she believed in were impressive. She had not led an easy life in any way, shape, or form-- yet instead of wallowing in misery, she pushed forward, trying to help others and defeat evil. Leo was the embodiment of goodness and light--strong and kind, though rather weak against magic of any kind. Rae became his protector in his hour of need, and that man really needed her.
The story is full of intrigue, magic, suspense, and romance. I loved the rich descriptions which drew me so far into the story that I lost track of time. The characters were great, though I wish we had seen a bit more of the villain. He wasn't in it much which made the final battle rather anticlimactic. I thought the novel started on the slow side, and I had a tough time getting into it until about 1/4 of the way through. After that, the pacing picked up, sucking me in.
If you haven't read anything by Ms. Huchton, I highly suggest you give one of her books a try. So far I've really enjoyed everything I've read.
November 15, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
With the skill of rumpelstiltskin himself Starla Huchton spins the straw of the original Snow White story into epic fantasy gold. I haven’t plowed through a book like this in a good while, even reading one handed at times! (While cooking you pervs!)
“They are calls to action, meant to send the chosen on journeys of great importance.”
A gender bending twist on Snow White, it really has aspects from several classic tales and does a good job laying down some foundation for more stories in the same world. If that proves to be the plan I know I’ll be first in line to read any others that come along!
While a good chunk of this book would easily pass for squeaky clean YA, there is an underlying theme that alludes towards some dark and adult aspects. Read it first before deciding if it’s appropriate for your youngster.
“Soon I would either be dead, or a princess. I wasn’t sure which one terrified me more.”
Another theme that runs through the story is one of female empowerment. The seven sisters, especially Rae kick butt and take names with the best of them while putting the Prince and the boys club in their place!
Great story with a lot of heart, action, adventure, and strong heroines that’s good for most ages!
With the skill of rumpelstiltskin himself Starla Huchton spins the straw of the original Snow White story into epic fantasy gold. I haven’t plowed through a book like this in a good while, even reading one handed at times! (While cooking you pervs!)
“They are calls to action, meant to send the chosen on journeys of great importance.”
A gender bending twist on Snow White, it really has aspects from several classic tales and does a good job laying down some foundation for more stories in the same world. If that proves to be the plan I know I’ll be first in line to read any others that come along!
While a good chunk of this book would easily pass for squeaky clean YA, there is an underlying theme that alludes towards some dark and adult aspects. Read it first before deciding if it’s appropriate for your youngster.
“Soon I would either be dead, or a princess. I wasn’t sure which one terrified me more.”
Another theme that runs through the story is one of female empowerment. The seven sisters, especially Rae kick butt and take names with the best of them while putting the Prince and the boys club in their place!
Great story with a lot of heart, action, adventure, and strong heroines that’s good for most ages!
July 28, 2016
***3.5 Stars***
This is a little bit Cinderella, a smidge of Sleeping Beauty, and a whole lot of Snow White rolled into one. The best part is that it is not our fair Princess Raelynn who takes the role of Snow White but our noble Prince Leo. Instead of seven dwarves tasked with keeping the prince safe, it is Princess Raelynn and her six witchy (as in the literal sense of the word) sisters, each with their own unique magical skill set. And when I said Raelynn is fair, what I really mean is she is fierce(ish). She doesn't need to be protected or rescued. She is the knight in shining armor in this tale.
While there was nothing overtly spectacular about the story, overall it still managed to be a quick, fun read. I wouldn't hesitate to read another story set in the same world. With five sisters left unattached I'm sure there's more to come for these magical princesses.
Another one bites the dust.
This is a little bit Cinderella, a smidge of Sleeping Beauty, and a whole lot of Snow White rolled into one. The best part is that it is not our fair Princess Raelynn who takes the role of Snow White but our noble Prince Leo. Instead of seven dwarves tasked with keeping the prince safe, it is Princess Raelynn and her six witchy (as in the literal sense of the word) sisters, each with their own unique magical skill set. And when I said Raelynn is fair, what I really mean is she is fierce(ish). She doesn't need to be protected or rescued. She is the knight in shining armor in this tale.
While there was nothing overtly spectacular about the story, overall it still managed to be a quick, fun read. I wouldn't hesitate to read another story set in the same world. With five sisters left unattached I'm sure there's more to come for these magical princesses.
Another one bites the dust.
June 25, 2015
I've read quite a few books by Starla now, and I've loved them all. I had high hopes for this one in particular, because I am a huge fan of fairy tales, and I thought the idea of swapping genders was really unique and interesting. I don't know whether anyone has done it before, but it's the first time I've ever heard of it and I think it's genius.
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
I have raved about her books in the past, and I'm going to do it again. This is definitely my favorite of hers so far. It is just pure awesomeness. While the nods to Snow White are present throughout, it's definitely it's own story. I loved that even knowing the original fairy tale, it didn't make it predictable. The characters are amazing, the pacing is perfect, the plot is spectacular.... I really can't talk this up enough, and I cannot wait to read more of these flipped fairy tales!!!
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
I have raved about her books in the past, and I'm going to do it again. This is definitely my favorite of hers so far. It is just pure awesomeness. While the nods to Snow White are present throughout, it's definitely it's own story. I loved that even knowing the original fairy tale, it didn't make it predictable. The characters are amazing, the pacing is perfect, the plot is spectacular.... I really can't talk this up enough, and I cannot wait to read more of these flipped fairy tales!!!
October 14, 2018
2 stars
DNF ...
DNF ...
September 1, 2019
This is the most brilliant rewrite of Snow White I have ever come across.
I never thought about what would happen if the genders were swapped, but this was awesomely different than anything I could’ve imagined. I think my favorite part about this was that it wasn’t a love at first sight retelling but instead a real relationship formed between the Prince and Rae.
This story is studded with tons of interesting aspects like witches, magic, and love. This is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of fairytales.
Also, the narration was wonderfully done. The narrator was able to create a wide range of voices that made it easy to distinguish between characters.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
I never thought about what would happen if the genders were swapped, but this was awesomely different than anything I could’ve imagined. I think my favorite part about this was that it wasn’t a love at first sight retelling but instead a real relationship formed between the Prince and Rae.
This story is studded with tons of interesting aspects like witches, magic, and love. This is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of fairytales.
Also, the narration was wonderfully done. The narrator was able to create a wide range of voices that made it easy to distinguish between characters.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
February 12, 2015
“Strength comes in many forms. Beauty is but one.” (Page 28).
Raelynn is both beautiful and strong and when she overhears that the Queen is in trouble, she cannot but try to help. Rae has a magical gift that helps her remain unnoticed as she attempts to help the Queen. In the form of a lowly, simple stable boy she is still able to charm the young Prince Leopold, but when he is in danger himself, she must try to save him as well. Forever late, even in birth, can Rae protect the Prince from his evil stepfather?
The messages in this fairy tale adaptation ring loud and true. Starla describes animals that have intelligence and feelings, life having souls, being strong even after victimization, standing up for beliefs, perseverance and hard work paying off, love being the highest form of magic. Each ‘moral’ is layered into the novel so that none come off as too obvious. There were so many wise words in this tale, so much one could learn, so many beautiful quotes. Starla is wise beyond measure and is able to communicate through her novels these lovely themes.
Starla’s characters are the noblest and the most evil. They became larger than life for me and I loved all of them, even the evil stepfather, because they were each and every one so well described, unique, and so real you could sink your teeth into them.
The main character, Raelynn was very well written and I fell instantly in love with her. She is stubborn but resilient. She is well meaning but can’t always talk about her feelings. She has a resounding character flaw that isn’t so much a ‘flaw’ but an event that is cataclysmic in her need to help others when she can and to do everything to shield herself for protection. She doesn’t hesitate when it comes to duty.
Prince Leo falls in instalove with Rae, but for good reason. She is wonderful, with passion and care for those around her and for what she believes in. She is beautiful and kind, but also timid at times and brave when she needs to be. She is the ultimate strong female character, even though she is constantly plagued and haunted by memories of a tragedy that happened in her past.
This book contains magic, but not in the over the top kind. The use of magic is not a crutch for the author but a wonderful new imaginative tool.
I loved the special bond between the seven sisters.
The author’s clever interweaving of subtle hints of common fairy tales like Cinderella and Snow White was awesome and so very, very clever.
The character’s never break character and fit so well into the world/environment that Starla has created for them in this book.
My only critique would be to get rid of the epilogue and do away with the introductory bit in the beginning.
Raelynn is both beautiful and strong and when she overhears that the Queen is in trouble, she cannot but try to help. Rae has a magical gift that helps her remain unnoticed as she attempts to help the Queen. In the form of a lowly, simple stable boy she is still able to charm the young Prince Leopold, but when he is in danger himself, she must try to save him as well. Forever late, even in birth, can Rae protect the Prince from his evil stepfather?
The messages in this fairy tale adaptation ring loud and true. Starla describes animals that have intelligence and feelings, life having souls, being strong even after victimization, standing up for beliefs, perseverance and hard work paying off, love being the highest form of magic. Each ‘moral’ is layered into the novel so that none come off as too obvious. There were so many wise words in this tale, so much one could learn, so many beautiful quotes. Starla is wise beyond measure and is able to communicate through her novels these lovely themes.
Starla’s characters are the noblest and the most evil. They became larger than life for me and I loved all of them, even the evil stepfather, because they were each and every one so well described, unique, and so real you could sink your teeth into them.
The main character, Raelynn was very well written and I fell instantly in love with her. She is stubborn but resilient. She is well meaning but can’t always talk about her feelings. She has a resounding character flaw that isn’t so much a ‘flaw’ but an event that is cataclysmic in her need to help others when she can and to do everything to shield herself for protection. She doesn’t hesitate when it comes to duty.
Prince Leo falls in instalove with Rae, but for good reason. She is wonderful, with passion and care for those around her and for what she believes in. She is beautiful and kind, but also timid at times and brave when she needs to be. She is the ultimate strong female character, even though she is constantly plagued and haunted by memories of a tragedy that happened in her past.
This book contains magic, but not in the over the top kind. The use of magic is not a crutch for the author but a wonderful new imaginative tool.
I loved the special bond between the seven sisters.
The author’s clever interweaving of subtle hints of common fairy tales like Cinderella and Snow White was awesome and so very, very clever.
The character’s never break character and fit so well into the world/environment that Starla has created for them in this book.
My only critique would be to get rid of the epilogue and do away with the introductory bit in the beginning.
November 10, 2014
I received a review copy of this book for my stop on the blog tour at Donnie Darko Girl.
When I saw that Starla Huchton had another book up for review, I automatically signed up didn't need to know anything else about it, not even the synopsis. I know that sounds a bit crazy, but after reading the first three books in her Evolution series which I'm now obsessed with, she's become an author on my auto-read/auto-buy list.
Starla's writing is magical, inventive, and unique. It transports you to places you didn't even know you wanted to go, and once you get there, you don't want to leave. Her novel Shadows on Snow is no different as a re-imagining of the Snow White fairy tale. I describe the novel as a re-imagining rather than a retelling because while elements of Snow White are present, Shadows on Snow is quite different and stands on its own.
First of all, Snow White is male (Prince Leopold) instead of female! Prince Leopold is born to parents who had tried to have children for a long time. When he's born, they rejoice over their miracle baby, and he's described as having an almost ethereal and otherworldly beauty and grace surrounding him. Everyone in the kingdom instantly loves him. He's the personification of all that is good and positive in the world.
The story is told in first person not from Prince Leopold's POV but from the POV of a boy working in the stables. Prince Leopold's father has died, and his mother is gravely ill. The boy from the stables is tasked with finding out why the Queen is so ill. This is really all I can say to give you an idea of how Shadows on Snow begins because anything more and I risk giving away too much. And I definitely don't want to ruin any of the surprises coming your way!
There's so much awesomeness in this story! It's full of magic, romance, suspense, and hope. There are some dark times, but I kept holding onto the hope that everything would turn out okay. I desperately wanted them to turn out okay! It's amazing to me how the same author can create completely different characters and completely different worlds - a testament to the talent of Starla Huchton. It's my mission to read every book she has written and will write.
I had sky high hopes for Shadows on Snow - the title, the cover, the synopsis, the author, and the promise of great writing heightened my anticipation of starting this book. I'm so glad I'm one of the first to read it because now I can recommend this novel as well as Starla's Evolution series. Shadows on Snow needs to be on your TBR today!
When I saw that Starla Huchton had another book up for review, I automatically signed up didn't need to know anything else about it, not even the synopsis. I know that sounds a bit crazy, but after reading the first three books in her Evolution series which I'm now obsessed with, she's become an author on my auto-read/auto-buy list.
Starla's writing is magical, inventive, and unique. It transports you to places you didn't even know you wanted to go, and once you get there, you don't want to leave. Her novel Shadows on Snow is no different as a re-imagining of the Snow White fairy tale. I describe the novel as a re-imagining rather than a retelling because while elements of Snow White are present, Shadows on Snow is quite different and stands on its own.
First of all, Snow White is male (Prince Leopold) instead of female! Prince Leopold is born to parents who had tried to have children for a long time. When he's born, they rejoice over their miracle baby, and he's described as having an almost ethereal and otherworldly beauty and grace surrounding him. Everyone in the kingdom instantly loves him. He's the personification of all that is good and positive in the world.
The story is told in first person not from Prince Leopold's POV but from the POV of a boy working in the stables. Prince Leopold's father has died, and his mother is gravely ill. The boy from the stables is tasked with finding out why the Queen is so ill. This is really all I can say to give you an idea of how Shadows on Snow begins because anything more and I risk giving away too much. And I definitely don't want to ruin any of the surprises coming your way!
There's so much awesomeness in this story! It's full of magic, romance, suspense, and hope. There are some dark times, but I kept holding onto the hope that everything would turn out okay. I desperately wanted them to turn out okay! It's amazing to me how the same author can create completely different characters and completely different worlds - a testament to the talent of Starla Huchton. It's my mission to read every book she has written and will write.
I had sky high hopes for Shadows on Snow - the title, the cover, the synopsis, the author, and the promise of great writing heightened my anticipation of starting this book. I'm so glad I'm one of the first to read it because now I can recommend this novel as well as Starla's Evolution series. Shadows on Snow needs to be on your TBR today!
November 19, 2014
*Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy in exchange for an honest review as part of the RBTL Shadows On Snow Blog Tour.*
Shadows on Snow is a twist on a classic fairy tale.
Prince Leopold is handsome, with his dark hair and pale skin; he's definitely the male version of Snow White! Everyone who meets Prince Leopold instantly warms to him and likes him.
Rae is staff at Prince Leopold's castle. The story is told from Rae's POV. However there is more to Rae than meets the eye; Rae has been put at the castle to find out what is making the Queen so ill and to try and save her. But not everything goes according to plan for Rae or for Prince Leopold...
I'd give more details but you really don't want me spoiling it for when you get your own copy!! ;)
I was invited to review this book as part of a blog tour and if I'm honest I knew from its blurb I had to read it. This is the first book I've read by Starla Huchton, and I'm looking forward to discovering more of her work.
Starla's writing had me hooked from the beginning. I felt as though I had been transported into Rae and Prince Leopold's world. It was as if I was there with them experiencing and feeling everything and every emotion with them. Once ai was there I certainly didn't want to leave.
The characters are fab; they continue to develop throughout the entire book, and Starla Huchton has given enough details about them and keeps some mystery too. A prime example of this is Rae. Rae is intriguing, we know that there is something different about Rae but we don't know what until Starla decides to tell us. I felt like the addition of Prince Leopold's POV could have helped to give his character a bit more depth, also I would have loved to have known how he was thinking and feeling at times too.
The pacing is great, there's no time to get bored but it's not too fast that it becomes confusing either. Starla for me has done a fantastic job of taking a classic fairytale and completely changing it to make it her own and unique.
Shadows On Snow has been a thoroughly enjoyable read, one that I could happily read again (when I have time)! I definitely recommend giving Shadows On Snow a read and I'm looking forward to my next encounter with Starla Huchton.
Shadows on Snow is a twist on a classic fairy tale.
Prince Leopold is handsome, with his dark hair and pale skin; he's definitely the male version of Snow White! Everyone who meets Prince Leopold instantly warms to him and likes him.
Rae is staff at Prince Leopold's castle. The story is told from Rae's POV. However there is more to Rae than meets the eye; Rae has been put at the castle to find out what is making the Queen so ill and to try and save her. But not everything goes according to plan for Rae or for Prince Leopold...
I'd give more details but you really don't want me spoiling it for when you get your own copy!! ;)
I was invited to review this book as part of a blog tour and if I'm honest I knew from its blurb I had to read it. This is the first book I've read by Starla Huchton, and I'm looking forward to discovering more of her work.
Starla's writing had me hooked from the beginning. I felt as though I had been transported into Rae and Prince Leopold's world. It was as if I was there with them experiencing and feeling everything and every emotion with them. Once ai was there I certainly didn't want to leave.
The characters are fab; they continue to develop throughout the entire book, and Starla Huchton has given enough details about them and keeps some mystery too. A prime example of this is Rae. Rae is intriguing, we know that there is something different about Rae but we don't know what until Starla decides to tell us. I felt like the addition of Prince Leopold's POV could have helped to give his character a bit more depth, also I would have loved to have known how he was thinking and feeling at times too.
The pacing is great, there's no time to get bored but it's not too fast that it becomes confusing either. Starla for me has done a fantastic job of taking a classic fairytale and completely changing it to make it her own and unique.
Shadows On Snow has been a thoroughly enjoyable read, one that I could happily read again (when I have time)! I definitely recommend giving Shadows On Snow a read and I'm looking forward to my next encounter with Starla Huchton.
February 9, 2015
Quick thoughts: Pretty fantastic fairy tale variation. Strong characters, imaginative, and tackles some really uncomfortable topics with a deft touch and in a way that enhances the story and characters. The first person narrative worked well but also limited the "screen time" of the main villain, which made it hard to be too scared of him. A little heavier on the romance than the action, but still has plenty of adventure beats and dangers circling about. And the real draw here is the creative way the main fairy tale inspiration is twisted about and other famous fairy tales that work their way into the story here and there.
October 4, 2014
Someone finally did a twist tale right. This book was fun right from the first page and I didn't stop having fun until the end. And then I cried a little bit.
Starla has created a world full of rich characters and taken the story of Snow White we all know and love so well, and turned it on his head. We've got a prince in distress, a damsel who knows her way around a weapon or two and sisters who mean business. Underscoring all of this is magic and danger. Shadows on Snow is the fairy tale story you've been waiting for.
Starla has created a world full of rich characters and taken the story of Snow White we all know and love so well, and turned it on his head. We've got a prince in distress, a damsel who knows her way around a weapon or two and sisters who mean business. Underscoring all of this is magic and danger. Shadows on Snow is the fairy tale story you've been waiting for.
January 24, 2015
I totally loved it that I did finish it in a single session and I will search out more . I really can not do justice with a review since I am still caught within the pages and the images that are still there. To me a great story is one that will let me see it like a movie playing within my mind.
March 14, 2015
I like the twist of this retelling of Snow White. Kept me entertained. I was a great and quick read.
April 6, 2017
Ugh
Predictable and annoying, cringe after cringe. I forced myself to finish it. The characters were unoriginal and I wanted to slap them
Predictable and annoying, cringe after cringe. I forced myself to finish it. The characters were unoriginal and I wanted to slap them
January 28, 2018
Review also available on my blog The Shameful Narcissist Speaks.
I've always loved fairy tale retellings, so much so that I write them myself and infuse the all to familiar tropes in all of my works both fanfiction and original. Starla Huchton has taken it upon herself to delve into terrain fairly well trodden in order to present the old in another new way. Since this is the first of her stories I've read, I'm going off of assumption here, but it appears as though what she's flipping is the gender of the participants.
The seven dwarfs are now seven sisters (who still manage to be princesses in their own right), the evil queen is an evil king, and Snow White is an ebon-haired, snow skinned prince named Leo who is a kind capable ruler that any man would be willing to follow and many a princess would want to marry, but he's not the main character; the Rae is.
Rae and her sisters, six dispossessed princesses, have been working to reclaim what they once had, endowed with abilities that no mere "dwarf" could boast. I'd be hard-pressed to either remember all of their names let alone powers, but Rae (who is telling the tale) has the ability to cast glamours/illusions, which is convenient when you're doing reconnaissance in enemy territory, and you need to play a convincing stable boy. The youngest princess also has darkness in her past not of her own doing, and Huchton does a decent job portraying the aftermath and undeserved mental consequences of sexual assault where the mere thought of just wearing a dress is triggering. Her introduction to the prince comes via the stables between the buffer of horses, and it could be because she and Leo initially meet man to "man," where Rae sees his merit there, as a solid foundation to build a friendship albeit reluctant.
Shadows on Snow follows all of the beat points of Snow White while still maintaining some measure of suspense. We know we're going to get a poisoned apple followed by a glass coffin, and I was still impressed with the presentation of the magic mirror. While the story didn't do anything new, it was still beautifully written with individual, if sadly forgettable, characters in the seven sisters who would risk anything for repossession, as Rae braves her own past and heart for the chance at happiness.
3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 since Goodreads doesn't allow half ratings)
I've always loved fairy tale retellings, so much so that I write them myself and infuse the all to familiar tropes in all of my works both fanfiction and original. Starla Huchton has taken it upon herself to delve into terrain fairly well trodden in order to present the old in another new way. Since this is the first of her stories I've read, I'm going off of assumption here, but it appears as though what she's flipping is the gender of the participants.
The seven dwarfs are now seven sisters (who still manage to be princesses in their own right), the evil queen is an evil king, and Snow White is an ebon-haired, snow skinned prince named Leo who is a kind capable ruler that any man would be willing to follow and many a princess would want to marry, but he's not the main character; the Rae is.
Rae and her sisters, six dispossessed princesses, have been working to reclaim what they once had, endowed with abilities that no mere "dwarf" could boast. I'd be hard-pressed to either remember all of their names let alone powers, but Rae (who is telling the tale) has the ability to cast glamours/illusions, which is convenient when you're doing reconnaissance in enemy territory, and you need to play a convincing stable boy. The youngest princess also has darkness in her past not of her own doing, and Huchton does a decent job portraying the aftermath and undeserved mental consequences of sexual assault where the mere thought of just wearing a dress is triggering. Her introduction to the prince comes via the stables between the buffer of horses, and it could be because she and Leo initially meet man to "man," where Rae sees his merit there, as a solid foundation to build a friendship albeit reluctant.
Shadows on Snow follows all of the beat points of Snow White while still maintaining some measure of suspense. We know we're going to get a poisoned apple followed by a glass coffin, and I was still impressed with the presentation of the magic mirror. While the story didn't do anything new, it was still beautifully written with individual, if sadly forgettable, characters in the seven sisters who would risk anything for repossession, as Rae braves her own past and heart for the chance at happiness.
3.5 stars (rounded up to 4 since Goodreads doesn't allow half ratings)
August 20, 2020
Best if helps to know more
June 21, 2019
Yes, I've read this book but when I heard Laura's sample narration on Audible, I had to have the audio book too. Wow. I loved the voice Laura gave to Rae. Rae sounds young and with a slight accent that feels to be Rae as I could imagine. She breaths life into Rae and all the characters that feels true to their emotions and personalities in the events happening. Amazing narration! Truly worth picking up to listen to the amazing story.
Sometimes you read a book and you fall in love with the characters and the story, everything fits in place. Sometimes you listen to a narrator and they feel perfect for the story and characters, making you melt. When these two things come together in one place, it's an amazing piece of artwork. That's what happened here for me! Lauren voices the story and characters with the heart and feeling that fits the book that Starla wrote. Wow.
*******
4 1/2 stars
Starla spins Snow White's tale with a Prince. There is life revelations and love mixed with magic and seven witches. Enjoyable fairytale read with a new twist.
****FULL REVIEW****
Rae has been doing her part in protecting the royalty in the kingdom of Bern. Watching to make sure they don't fall victim as others have, to a cruel, evil man. Then one day she meets the Prince Leo. There is magic there that Rae is not ready to face. But Rae will do what she must to protect Prince Leo when his mother falls ill and he is shunned from the city. On the run, Rae faces a past she had buried deep inside her and comes to realize some things are worth the risk.
Godmothers, witches, magic, princes, and love. All with a feel of a lesson learned in the end through the trials and tribulations to get there. The heartache is worth it in the end as it's how Rae learns her hearts desire.
Starla amazes me with her story telling and stories she writes. She has different voice in this story as in any of her other series. Feels old with a blend of fey to it. I like it.
It's AMAZING how Starla has taken an old tale and twisted it around to make something new and fresh with a magical underlining to the world. She takes the basic tale of Snow White and not only flips the genders but also crafts a world and story all of it's own here.
I was stunned at the turn-table of the Snow White tale, gender flipped. The Prince is a fine respected commander of his army but when someone of power wants to turn people against him, it is done. He's not a weak man at all. That's what I enjoyed about him in this tale. So easily he could have been down played, but he wasn't. Rae is an interesting character. There is a whole history we don't know and guess at in the beginning, but when it comes out...WOW. It all falls into place then. Even the evil man we learn to hate is crafted here to the point that I was nervous for Rae on several occasions.
This is a story for those of any age, parents or young adults (over 13). It captivates you and draws you into the world with ease.
Love the twists you made to the story. I love the way Starla turned this tale around and had a great story in it. Well done.
This is a series WELL worth reading.
Sometimes you read a book and you fall in love with the characters and the story, everything fits in place. Sometimes you listen to a narrator and they feel perfect for the story and characters, making you melt. When these two things come together in one place, it's an amazing piece of artwork. That's what happened here for me! Lauren voices the story and characters with the heart and feeling that fits the book that Starla wrote. Wow.
*******
4 1/2 stars
Starla spins Snow White's tale with a Prince. There is life revelations and love mixed with magic and seven witches. Enjoyable fairytale read with a new twist.
****FULL REVIEW****
Rae has been doing her part in protecting the royalty in the kingdom of Bern. Watching to make sure they don't fall victim as others have, to a cruel, evil man. Then one day she meets the Prince Leo. There is magic there that Rae is not ready to face. But Rae will do what she must to protect Prince Leo when his mother falls ill and he is shunned from the city. On the run, Rae faces a past she had buried deep inside her and comes to realize some things are worth the risk.
Godmothers, witches, magic, princes, and love. All with a feel of a lesson learned in the end through the trials and tribulations to get there. The heartache is worth it in the end as it's how Rae learns her hearts desire.
Starla amazes me with her story telling and stories she writes. She has different voice in this story as in any of her other series. Feels old with a blend of fey to it. I like it.
It's AMAZING how Starla has taken an old tale and twisted it around to make something new and fresh with a magical underlining to the world. She takes the basic tale of Snow White and not only flips the genders but also crafts a world and story all of it's own here.
I was stunned at the turn-table of the Snow White tale, gender flipped. The Prince is a fine respected commander of his army but when someone of power wants to turn people against him, it is done. He's not a weak man at all. That's what I enjoyed about him in this tale. So easily he could have been down played, but he wasn't. Rae is an interesting character. There is a whole history we don't know and guess at in the beginning, but when it comes out...WOW. It all falls into place then. Even the evil man we learn to hate is crafted here to the point that I was nervous for Rae on several occasions.
This is a story for those of any age, parents or young adults (over 13). It captivates you and draws you into the world with ease.
Love the twists you made to the story. I love the way Starla turned this tale around and had a great story in it. Well done.
This is a series WELL worth reading.
July 17, 2015
Wow. What a truly fantastic book. It is extremely well written (and edited) and has tightly packed action and full character development. I highly recommend this book and will be reading more from this author!
The basic setup is that "Snow White" is really the prince and instead of seven dwarves, there are seven sisters. These sisters have been in hiding for a decade, after their kingdom was stolen by a man (the evil king) who killed their mother. This man has now remarried, the prince's (Leo's) mother, who is quite ill. The main character, Rae (the youngest sister), has been sent to try to save Leo's mother. Rae has the ability to glamour herself so that she looks like someone else, so she works in the stables and does other odd jobs as required, allowing her to move through the castle and overhear much of the gossip.
The author has done a very thorough job of creating a back story for Rae and her sisters and allowing their past experiences to shape who they are in this book, from their individual personalities to their relationships with one another. And gradually, Rae lets Leo in, befriending him in her guise as a stable boy. Their relationship develops slowly but it is obvious that they are falling in love (obvious to all but Rae). I won't go into any more details of the story because I don't want to give anything away, but it is a very satisfying tale.
One of the best parts of the story is how the author uses the Snow White story (and a little from Cinderella) but never makes the book feel like a simple retelling of that tale. Instead, it is a fully developed story in its own right which is augmented by the touches from the other fairy tales. A truly wonderful story that I quite enjoyed and which had me on the edge of my seat in the final pages. Add this to your to be read pile and place it at the top. You won't be sorry!
The basic setup is that "Snow White" is really the prince and instead of seven dwarves, there are seven sisters. These sisters have been in hiding for a decade, after their kingdom was stolen by a man (the evil king) who killed their mother. This man has now remarried, the prince's (Leo's) mother, who is quite ill. The main character, Rae (the youngest sister), has been sent to try to save Leo's mother. Rae has the ability to glamour herself so that she looks like someone else, so she works in the stables and does other odd jobs as required, allowing her to move through the castle and overhear much of the gossip.
The author has done a very thorough job of creating a back story for Rae and her sisters and allowing their past experiences to shape who they are in this book, from their individual personalities to their relationships with one another. And gradually, Rae lets Leo in, befriending him in her guise as a stable boy. Their relationship develops slowly but it is obvious that they are falling in love (obvious to all but Rae). I won't go into any more details of the story because I don't want to give anything away, but it is a very satisfying tale.
One of the best parts of the story is how the author uses the Snow White story (and a little from Cinderella) but never makes the book feel like a simple retelling of that tale. Instead, it is a fully developed story in its own right which is augmented by the touches from the other fairy tales. A truly wonderful story that I quite enjoyed and which had me on the edge of my seat in the final pages. Add this to your to be read pile and place it at the top. You won't be sorry!
May 6, 2016
Yesyesyesyeysyeysyesy! Someone did it right! Finally! Somebody got it frigging right! Shadows on Snow has to be one of the only fairy tale remakes that I have every liked, much less fell in love with. It is so magical and fluid I didn't even notice time passing as I read. I started, then "Oh look, it been seven hours... well I can't stop now. Might as well finish the book" *happy shrug*. This book is definitely a gender swap, for all those who love those. The equivalent of Snow White is a dude, the hero is actually a heroine, the bad guy is the king, not the queen, and the seven dwarfs are replaced by seven witch sisters. It was like snow white in ways, but totally stood on its own merit at the same time. I now have much respect for Starla the author, now that she has done the impossible, gotten me to like anything associated with Snow White. I hate the story of Snow White, but Shadows on Snow was something else. Something better. Something I recommend every single one of you guys and gals read. Keep an eye out for Shadows on Snow as it will be published November 3rd 2014! I loved it so much, I give it the honored FIVE STARS!
Much thanks to Starla Huchton for allowing me to be one of the first to read this masterpiece. It was an honor. :)
Want more of my reviews? Go to: http://thenotsopubliclibrary.blogspot...
Much thanks to Starla Huchton for allowing me to be one of the first to read this masterpiece. It was an honor. :)
Want more of my reviews? Go to: http://thenotsopubliclibrary.blogspot...
November 3, 2014
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Like I have said before, I absolutely love Starla Huchton. So, of course, when I saw that she was doing a flipped fairytale I could not wait to read it!!
Shadows on Snow was one of the most enchanting books I have ever read. This is a spin of Snow White, but not really a retelling per-se. I won't say much about the plot itself but know it is so much different from what you all know about Snow White. You will be hooked from the very beginning. The hero in this story is supposed to be the Snow White of Snow White. He's the handsome hero in distress and it is up to the heroine to save him. Rae was an admirable heroine. Her sisters and her have gone through so much, but that doesn't stop her at all. She's fierce and knows a thing or two about dangerous weapons.
Like I have said before, this may be a spin-off of Snow White, but I was surprised page after page. This book is darker and full of some kick-ass action with magic woven in throughout it. I am really looking forward to whatever Starla will write next (and YES I'm hoping she writes another one! Maybe Cinderella next?) Fans of fairytales grab this one because will really enjoy it!
Like I have said before, I absolutely love Starla Huchton. So, of course, when I saw that she was doing a flipped fairytale I could not wait to read it!!
Shadows on Snow was one of the most enchanting books I have ever read. This is a spin of Snow White, but not really a retelling per-se. I won't say much about the plot itself but know it is so much different from what you all know about Snow White. You will be hooked from the very beginning. The hero in this story is supposed to be the Snow White of Snow White. He's the handsome hero in distress and it is up to the heroine to save him. Rae was an admirable heroine. Her sisters and her have gone through so much, but that doesn't stop her at all. She's fierce and knows a thing or two about dangerous weapons.
Like I have said before, this may be a spin-off of Snow White, but I was surprised page after page. This book is darker and full of some kick-ass action with magic woven in throughout it. I am really looking forward to whatever Starla will write next (and YES I'm hoping she writes another one! Maybe Cinderella next?) Fans of fairytales grab this one because will really enjoy it!
November 22, 2014
I was very interested to read this book when it was first introduced because I was curious about the idea of a "flipped fairytale". What captivated me the most about this story was the writing; it is very descriptive and allows you to picture exactly what it being portrayed. The author has a wonderful plot being set in motion when she introduces the little boy in the barn taking care of the horses. It isn't just any little boy...or a little boy at all.
I enjoyed reading about Raelynn and her sisters. The family bond that they share is just absolutely amazing. I did find that the Prince was a little too love-stricken for my taste but the story is based on a heroine instead of a hero. I must admit that this book took my mind for a spin! It was just MAGICAL.
I recommend this book to all of my club members. Again, this is a story portrayed from Raelynn's point of view; therefore, men may not enjoy it nearly as much as women. I am looking forward to the next in Starla's series.
I enjoyed reading about Raelynn and her sisters. The family bond that they share is just absolutely amazing. I did find that the Prince was a little too love-stricken for my taste but the story is based on a heroine instead of a hero. I must admit that this book took my mind for a spin! It was just MAGICAL.
I recommend this book to all of my club members. Again, this is a story portrayed from Raelynn's point of view; therefore, men may not enjoy it nearly as much as women. I am looking forward to the next in Starla's series.
November 3, 2014
This book is a real winner and a joy to read. I don't know if I can attribute this to the story itself or just the fact that Snow White isn't a favorite fairy tale of mine, but I really didn't care overmuch for the Snow White parallel character, Prince Leopold. That isn't to say Leopold is unlikeable. Quite the opposite. Then again, this wasn't really his story. This is Rae's story, and she is a heroine to relate to and admire. She's definitely a teenager with an opinion and skills, and reading things from her perspective is a blast.
The world Huchton created around the elements of the original story are rich and full, making this a world with lots more stories to tell. I hope to see more fairy tale retellings set here. This is an excellent read for young adults and not-so-young adults.
The world Huchton created around the elements of the original story are rich and full, making this a world with lots more stories to tell. I hope to see more fairy tale retellings set here. This is an excellent read for young adults and not-so-young adults.
November 4, 2014
*I was provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
LOVE!!!!
This was my first time reading a gender flip book, if you've read them before then you get it. If you haven't basically what this means, in this story based on the tale of Snow White, snow white is a man and the hero is a woman. The roles are turned around for the characters and it is totally awesome!
I have been waiting for a while to read this one, there was so much hype building- it does not disappoint! I could not put this book down!!!
Huchton has a way of writing the characters tat when you read it, you say- wow they got it wrong all those years ago.... This really IS how Snow White was meant to be!
The action is nail biting, I literally got nervous!!
You HAVE to get this book!!!!
Well done!!
~Dowie
LOVE!!!!
This was my first time reading a gender flip book, if you've read them before then you get it. If you haven't basically what this means, in this story based on the tale of Snow White, snow white is a man and the hero is a woman. The roles are turned around for the characters and it is totally awesome!
I have been waiting for a while to read this one, there was so much hype building- it does not disappoint! I could not put this book down!!!
Huchton has a way of writing the characters tat when you read it, you say- wow they got it wrong all those years ago.... This really IS how Snow White was meant to be!
The action is nail biting, I literally got nervous!!
You HAVE to get this book!!!!
Well done!!
~Dowie
November 7, 2014
LOVED IT! Wow, is all I have to say after I devoured this book.
I loved the roll reversal and how well it was incorporated into the original Snow White theme. I loved the use of magic and the slow build of the relationship between the main characters, it didn't feel rushed or instantaneous which can be annoying in stories because it is unrealistic.
My only complaint is that it was over too soon! I don't know what else the author could have added to make it longer, the story felt complete and not lacking... I just felt like it was over too soon and I wanted more!
I definitely can't wait to read more from this author, she is an amazing story teller if this book is any indication! <3
I loved the roll reversal and how well it was incorporated into the original Snow White theme. I loved the use of magic and the slow build of the relationship between the main characters, it didn't feel rushed or instantaneous which can be annoying in stories because it is unrealistic.
My only complaint is that it was over too soon! I don't know what else the author could have added to make it longer, the story felt complete and not lacking... I just felt like it was over too soon and I wanted more!
I definitely can't wait to read more from this author, she is an amazing story teller if this book is any indication! <3
December 13, 2018
What intrigued me most and the reason I decided to try and read this book was the idea of it being a flipped fairy tale. Starla does a great job at taking a traditional tale and manipulating it and putting her own twist on things. I don't recall ever hearing of such a book. I will be honest at the beginning of the book I struggled not necessarily because of the writing or the layout but it is very much a magical fantasy genre which I am not normally drawn to. However, the farther I read the more intrigued I became and the more I wanted to read. This is one of those books you will be thinking about for a while. I really enjoyed it and am glad I stuck with it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews