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The Pennymaker Tales #1
Sinders and Ash
Housekeeper Mark Sintorella (Sinders) works diligently at a resort hotel while designing clothes anonymously, hoping to get into fashion school. Then his carefully planned life is upended with the arrival of Ashford Armitage, son of the fifth richest man in America—and the most beautiful guy Mark has ever seen. Ash must find a wife or he’ll lose his grandfather’s inheritance, and he settles on Bitsy Fanderel. But secretly Ash is gay, and the guy who cleans the fireplaces sets his heart ablaze.
Further stirring the pot is the little elf of a man, Carstairs Pennymaker, who has Mark wearing his own designs and masquerading as a girl to impress the fashion investors in the hotel. When the clock strikes twelve, two beautiful princesses line up for the wedding—but one isn’t a woman. Will the slipper fit? Only Mr. Pennymaker knows for sure.
Length: 4 hrs and 52 mins
Further stirring the pot is the little elf of a man, Carstairs Pennymaker, who has Mark wearing his own designs and masquerading as a girl to impress the fashion investors in the hotel. When the clock strikes twelve, two beautiful princesses line up for the wedding—but one isn’t a woman. Will the slipper fit? Only Mr. Pennymaker knows for sure.
Length: 4 hrs and 52 mins
5 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 31, 2012
78 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Tara Lain
97 books1,388 followersTara Lain believes in happy ever afters - and magic. Same thing. In fact, she says, she doesn't believe, she knows. Tara shares this passion in her stories that star her unique, charismatic heroes and adventurous heroines. Quarterbacks and cops, werewolves and witches, blue collar or billionaires, Tara's characters, readers say, love deeply, resolve seemingly insurmountable differences, and ultimately live their lives authentically. After many years living in southern California, Tara, her soulmate honey and her soulmate dog decided they wanted less cars and more trees, prompting a move to Ashland, Oregon where Tara's creating new stories and loving living in a small town with big culture. Likely a Gryffindor or maybe a Ravensclaw but possessed of Parseltongue, Tara loves animals of all kinds, diversity, open minds, coconut crunch ice cream from Zoeys, and her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
October 9, 2015
I read the newly released second edition, although I don't think this book was updated.
Let's start here:
This is a FAIRY TALE (a contemporary, loose interpretation of Cinderella).
I reminded myself of this every time I wanted to roll my eyes while reading this story.
We have Mark (aka Sinders), a talented fashion designer working as an all-purpose boy at a posh hotel. Sinders wears a disguise so as not to appear too beautiful and draw attention.
And we have Ashton (aka Ash), a closeted millionaire who must marry before his 25th birthday in order to receive his inheritance.
Mark is adopted by Mr. Pennymaker, a short, jolly man who becomes his fairy godfather of sorts.
Ash becomes smitten both with Mark and his feminine persona (that's all Mr. Pennymaker's idea). He comes to Mark's rescue, and the two exchange hot kisses.
I wanted more steam, less camp, and certainly more character development. The MCs are fairly one dimensional, and some of the plot lines (like the secondary romance between Bitsy and Ronnie) muddle the story.
Everything happens quickly and easily, as is the case with fairy tales. After all, nothing stands in the way of True Love!
Sinders and Ash is a fun, easy read. And since this is a fairy tale, the HEA is blinding.
Let's start here:
This is a FAIRY TALE (a contemporary, loose interpretation of Cinderella).
I reminded myself of this every time I wanted to roll my eyes while reading this story.
We have Mark (aka Sinders), a talented fashion designer working as an all-purpose boy at a posh hotel. Sinders wears a disguise so as not to appear too beautiful and draw attention.
And we have Ashton (aka Ash), a closeted millionaire who must marry before his 25th birthday in order to receive his inheritance.
Mark is adopted by Mr. Pennymaker, a short, jolly man who becomes his fairy godfather of sorts.
Ash becomes smitten both with Mark and his feminine persona (that's all Mr. Pennymaker's idea). He comes to Mark's rescue, and the two exchange hot kisses.
I wanted more steam, less camp, and certainly more character development. The MCs are fairly one dimensional, and some of the plot lines (like the secondary romance between Bitsy and Ronnie) muddle the story.
Everything happens quickly and easily, as is the case with fairy tales. After all, nothing stands in the way of True Love!
Sinders and Ash is a fun, easy read. And since this is a fairy tale, the HEA is blinding.
October 14, 2015
Re-Read of Second Edition. Originally Read and Reviewed December 2012
3.5 STARS
Loosely based on the "Once Upon A Time" stories we used to have read to us when we were tucked up in bed with our favourite toys (and I don't mean the battery operated one's, LOL) The Pennymaker Tales feature the loud (bright green or plaid) suited, small in stature but BIG hearted Carstairs Pennymaker: a contemporary 'fairy godfather' style character who in each story, with a touch of well meaning meddling and a pinch of mystique, will be orchestrating the eventual "happy ever after" of his particular charges of the moment.
In this case it's the androgynously beautiful but lowly hotel cleaner—and secret budding fashion designer—Mark "Sinders" Sinterello and his 'handsome Prince', the already wealthy, but soon to be even richer, trust fund beneficiary Ashton Armitage, who comes to the hotel (reluctantly) in search of a bride to satisfy the terms of the massive inheritance he can only claim if he marries before his 25th birthday. A date which is fast approaching.
Add in an ambitious mother, her two daughters, a midnight ball complete with slinky glamourous dress and crystal encrusted sandals all us girlies would drool over, and you've got all the ingredients for a sweet, sexy, modern day, m/m take on a much loved fairy tale romance. Not really magical in the true fairystory sense of the word, there's still enough bibbity bobbity boo about Carstairs Pennymaker to have you wondering about this little man's true origins but when it comes down to the contemporary side of the romance, it's definitely more bibbity bobbity WOOHOO!!! when openly gay Sinders and a smitten Ash get down to the nitty gritty!
Not everything follows the original. There's a non explicit girl/ girl romance gently unfolding in the background and Sinder’s aspiring fashion designer twist also adds a different dimension to the "Gasp! Who is that beautiful, mysterious girl" aspect of the story; when secretly gay Ash finds himself drawn to Mr Pennymaker's gorgeous, tall, willowy fashion designer 'niece' Mariel...Hmmm!
A revised second edition, I read this when it first came out in 2012 but since then I think Tara's writing style has just got better and better, so even though it’s a cute, sexy little story; in comparison to the recent books from her—which have all been pretty outstanding reads for me—I didn’t feel as much of a connection with it this time around. The nature of the story made parts of it feel a bit twee, but that doesn’t mean I'm not really looking forward now to seeing what sort of a spin Ms Lain has put on the classic tale of Snow White.
So, If you're feeling in the mood for a bit of an enchanting romance; put the kids to bed, get under the covers with your Kindle and read this one to yourself...but not out loud! What is it they say? Little pitchers have big ears...Haha...
Review link - http://bit.ly/1NHIpb6
3.5 STARS
Loosely based on the "Once Upon A Time" stories we used to have read to us when we were tucked up in bed with our favourite toys (and I don't mean the battery operated one's, LOL) The Pennymaker Tales feature the loud (bright green or plaid) suited, small in stature but BIG hearted Carstairs Pennymaker: a contemporary 'fairy godfather' style character who in each story, with a touch of well meaning meddling and a pinch of mystique, will be orchestrating the eventual "happy ever after" of his particular charges of the moment.
In this case it's the androgynously beautiful but lowly hotel cleaner—and secret budding fashion designer—Mark "Sinders" Sinterello and his 'handsome Prince', the already wealthy, but soon to be even richer, trust fund beneficiary Ashton Armitage, who comes to the hotel (reluctantly) in search of a bride to satisfy the terms of the massive inheritance he can only claim if he marries before his 25th birthday. A date which is fast approaching.
Add in an ambitious mother, her two daughters, a midnight ball complete with slinky glamourous dress and crystal encrusted sandals all us girlies would drool over, and you've got all the ingredients for a sweet, sexy, modern day, m/m take on a much loved fairy tale romance. Not really magical in the true fairystory sense of the word, there's still enough bibbity bobbity boo about Carstairs Pennymaker to have you wondering about this little man's true origins but when it comes down to the contemporary side of the romance, it's definitely more bibbity bobbity WOOHOO!!! when openly gay Sinders and a smitten Ash get down to the nitty gritty!
Not everything follows the original. There's a non explicit girl/ girl romance gently unfolding in the background and Sinder’s aspiring fashion designer twist also adds a different dimension to the "Gasp! Who is that beautiful, mysterious girl" aspect of the story; when secretly gay Ash finds himself drawn to Mr Pennymaker's gorgeous, tall, willowy fashion designer 'niece' Mariel...Hmmm!
A revised second edition, I read this when it first came out in 2012 but since then I think Tara's writing style has just got better and better, so even though it’s a cute, sexy little story; in comparison to the recent books from her—which have all been pretty outstanding reads for me—I didn’t feel as much of a connection with it this time around. The nature of the story made parts of it feel a bit twee, but that doesn’t mean I'm not really looking forward now to seeing what sort of a spin Ms Lain has put on the classic tale of Snow White.
So, If you're feeling in the mood for a bit of an enchanting romance; put the kids to bed, get under the covers with your Kindle and read this one to yourself...but not out loud! What is it they say? Little pitchers have big ears...Haha...
Review link - http://bit.ly/1NHIpb6
April 12, 2016
Narrated by Kale Williams
Suspend belief all ye who enter here!
Not saying that’s a bad thing. But, you do need to know that this is very much a Hallmark type fairy tale so you can appreciate it for what it’s giving you. Everyone is exceptionally beautiful, the drama is dramatic as are the reactions to the drama and the ending is perfectly perfect.
Sinders, or Mark, is a beautifully sad and quirky character that cleans the fireplaces at a luxury resort along with a bunch of menial bullshit things that no one else wants to do. He lives in an attic room, saving all his money to one day go to design school. Ash is a delicious rich boy who, in order to claim his inheritance of eleventeen trillion dollars, must marry by his birthday. Needless to say he doesn’t have that handled and he’s at the resort to try and find himself a bride.
Mark is taken under the wing or a strange little man with the ultimate connections in the fashion industry named Carstairs Pennymaker. Mr. Pennymaker is the mastermind behind the meet cutes in the story and his plans to put Mark on the fashion map come with pearls of wisdom and self-confidence building bits of enlightenment. He’s very charming and quirky and I liked him a lot.
The bad guys were especially ugly and the part of the Evil Stepmother and sisters was played out well in a modern way. One of the sisters ends up being a good friend to Ash and the side story with Bitsy and Ronnie (Ash’s assistant) was really my favorite part of the story. I liked both of their characters and they were the most “real” of all the characters.
I listened to the audio version of this story and I did like the narrator’s voice, my only problem was that his Mark and his Ash sounded the same as the story progressed. I never got confused about who was talking, but the sameness of it made it too easy for my brain to wander. When I read the book many moons ago I never realized how much the characters talked to themselves, the narration really emphasizes that and it got old after a bit. I started thinking, “who the hell are you even talking to?” It made the story sound more narrated than organic.
Go into Sinders and Ash knowing you are getting a contemporary fairy tale with a plethora of voice inducing situational boners and beautiful people getting happy endings with very little realism. Sometimes that flavor of brain candy is exactly what a person needs and if you’re in that moment, this is the story for you.
**a copy of this audiobook was provided by DSP for honest review**
Suspend belief all ye who enter here!
Not saying that’s a bad thing. But, you do need to know that this is very much a Hallmark type fairy tale so you can appreciate it for what it’s giving you. Everyone is exceptionally beautiful, the drama is dramatic as are the reactions to the drama and the ending is perfectly perfect.
Sinders, or Mark, is a beautifully sad and quirky character that cleans the fireplaces at a luxury resort along with a bunch of menial bullshit things that no one else wants to do. He lives in an attic room, saving all his money to one day go to design school. Ash is a delicious rich boy who, in order to claim his inheritance of eleventeen trillion dollars, must marry by his birthday. Needless to say he doesn’t have that handled and he’s at the resort to try and find himself a bride.
Mark is taken under the wing or a strange little man with the ultimate connections in the fashion industry named Carstairs Pennymaker. Mr. Pennymaker is the mastermind behind the meet cutes in the story and his plans to put Mark on the fashion map come with pearls of wisdom and self-confidence building bits of enlightenment. He’s very charming and quirky and I liked him a lot.
The bad guys were especially ugly and the part of the Evil Stepmother and sisters was played out well in a modern way. One of the sisters ends up being a good friend to Ash and the side story with Bitsy and Ronnie (Ash’s assistant) was really my favorite part of the story. I liked both of their characters and they were the most “real” of all the characters.
I listened to the audio version of this story and I did like the narrator’s voice, my only problem was that his Mark and his Ash sounded the same as the story progressed. I never got confused about who was talking, but the sameness of it made it too easy for my brain to wander. When I read the book many moons ago I never realized how much the characters talked to themselves, the narration really emphasizes that and it got old after a bit. I started thinking, “who the hell are you even talking to?” It made the story sound more narrated than organic.
Go into Sinders and Ash knowing you are getting a contemporary fairy tale with a plethora of voice inducing situational boners and beautiful people getting happy endings with very little realism. Sometimes that flavor of brain candy is exactly what a person needs and if you’re in that moment, this is the story for you.
**a copy of this audiobook was provided by DSP for honest review**
October 15, 2015
*I received a free ARC of Sinders and Ash from Enchanterss of Books Blogtours in exchange of an honest and unbiased review*
Sinders and Ash is the most campy and fun re-telling of Cinderella I've had the pleasure to read! Tara Lain outdid herself with this one!
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
Sinders and Ash is the most campy and fun re-telling of Cinderella I've had the pleasure to read! Tara Lain outdid herself with this one!
This and all my other reviews are originally posted on my blog (un)Conventional Bookviews
September 29, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'd give this 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4. The marriage of convenience trope is one of my favorites, so it was a guaranteed I would want to read this. Mark 'Sinders' Sintorella works as a jack-of-all-trades at a posh resort. He earned his name from his job sweeping the fireplaces, and few even know his real name. Because of previous experiences, he also goes to lengths to hide his features, hiding them beneath a cap and behind glasses. He's trying to make enough money to get started as a fashion designer.
One day, Ashford 'Ash' Armitage, a wealthy playboy dilettante, comes to stay at the resort. It's well known he's looking for a bride (though not why) and so he finds himself surrounded by eligible females. Turns out he's looking for a bride of convenience as he stands to inherit a bunch of money if he marries before he turns 25. Otherwise he loses it all. And since he doesn't work (even at the family company) then he doesn't really have much on which to survive. One problem. He really doesn't want to get married to a girl because he is gay.
The story is loosely based on the fairy tale Cinderella, but luckily it doesn't stay too close to the original so there are a few surprises that work out pretty well. One of those is the "evil stepmom" and "evil stepsister", neither of whom are really that evil in the long run. Both really just want others to be happy and to have easier lives. Of course that iconic shoe scene is there. You'll have to read the story to find out how and when it happens. :) Overall, I thought that Tara Lain did a good job of keeping elements of the original story but adding enough changes that it felt new. Recommended for those who like light, fluffy romances without much angst. One niggle though, there aren't any sewing mice. So here you go:
I'd give this 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4. The marriage of convenience trope is one of my favorites, so it was a guaranteed I would want to read this. Mark 'Sinders' Sintorella works as a jack-of-all-trades at a posh resort. He earned his name from his job sweeping the fireplaces, and few even know his real name. Because of previous experiences, he also goes to lengths to hide his features, hiding them beneath a cap and behind glasses. He's trying to make enough money to get started as a fashion designer.
One day, Ashford 'Ash' Armitage, a wealthy playboy dilettante, comes to stay at the resort. It's well known he's looking for a bride (though not why) and so he finds himself surrounded by eligible females. Turns out he's looking for a bride of convenience as he stands to inherit a bunch of money if he marries before he turns 25. Otherwise he loses it all. And since he doesn't work (even at the family company) then he doesn't really have much on which to survive. One problem. He really doesn't want to get married to a girl because he is gay.
The story is loosely based on the fairy tale Cinderella, but luckily it doesn't stay too close to the original so there are a few surprises that work out pretty well. One of those is the "evil stepmom" and "evil stepsister", neither of whom are really that evil in the long run. Both really just want others to be happy and to have easier lives. Of course that iconic shoe scene is there. You'll have to read the story to find out how and when it happens. :) Overall, I thought that Tara Lain did a good job of keeping elements of the original story but adding enough changes that it felt new. Recommended for those who like light, fluffy romances without much angst. One niggle though, there aren't any sewing mice. So here you go:
April 15, 2012
Sinders and Ash is a great retelling of the classic Cinderella fairytale. And although at the heart, it is a fairytale, it stills takes a real look at modern life in New York for two gay men looking for love. It isn't all easy, but it does have a happy ending. *winks* Enjoy this one!
March 12, 2016
Mark "Sinders" Sinterello is a housekeeper who dreams of being a fashion designer. Ashton Armitage is a closeted millionaire in search of a bride in order to satisfy the terms of his grandfather's will. The will states Ash must marry prior to his twenty-fifth birthday in order to receive his $500+ million inheritance or it all goes to charity. Ash has procrastinated because he's gay and doesn't want to marry a woman and he literally only has weeks before his birthday to meet and marry someone.
Enter Carstairs Pennymaker, a tiny elf of a man, who acts as a sort of Fairy Godfather and takes Sinders under his wing, and works diligently to steer the two men together.
This is definitely a "fairy tale" and it requires almost complete suspension of all disbelief. I'll be honest and say, for me, it was alright, especially the narration by Kale Williams, but the story didn't really thrill me.
Bottom line: The pacing is good, the narration better, it has some nice sexy times, and a hard won HEA.
Audio copy of Sinders and Ash (The Pennymaker Tales #1) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 25, 2015
I love everything about this m/m Cinderella story from the cover to the end. This like the original Cinderella is a story with a message. I absolutely adored Mark “Sinders” Sintorella. He is out and true to himself and working his ass off to get where he wants to be. Ashford “Ash” Armitage is rich as Croesus but not happy because he isn’t out and his grandfathers will says his inheritance is dependent upon his getting married. Carstairs Pennymaker plays the role of fairy godmother to perfection. But I’ll admit Disney had a better dresser. Tara Lain puts her own spin on this story that will keep you engrossed and up past your bedtime.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
November 8, 2012
I've read a few Tara Lain books now and can't get enough of her writing style. In this one Tara Lain has taken a classic fairytale and put a more modern twist on it.
I loved the whole concept of Cinderella with two males in the lead parts but couldn't see how it could be done without making it a farce. Tara showed me how with panache! The characters were never caricatures and the constant hint at the original fairytale ideas was excellent. I loved the way she had the Ash character grow more responsible and open and the Sinder character learn to trust others more.
If you like variants on fairy tales with a modern twist and down to earth characters then this is for you :D
I loved the whole concept of Cinderella with two males in the lead parts but couldn't see how it could be done without making it a farce. Tara showed me how with panache! The characters were never caricatures and the constant hint at the original fairytale ideas was excellent. I loved the way she had the Ash character grow more responsible and open and the Sinder character learn to trust others more.
If you like variants on fairy tales with a modern twist and down to earth characters then this is for you :D
September 25, 2015
My absolute favorite of all her books that I've read, and I think I'm only missing 2. Something about these characters just clicked with me for some reason. A week after reading it while reading something else I still was thinking of them, wanting to go back and visit.
Tara has a wonderful way of creating characters that I want to meet and be friends with in real life, they stay with me long after I stop reading whatever book of hers I was reading at the time. She can't write fast enough for me.
Tara has a wonderful way of creating characters that I want to meet and be friends with in real life, they stay with me long after I stop reading whatever book of hers I was reading at the time. She can't write fast enough for me.
October 4, 2015
I absolutely loved this fantastic story! Tara Lain takes the same old, same old fairytale and gives it an original and totally fresh twist. I definitely recommend this to everyone.
I read an ARC of the 2nd edition of this book.
I read an ARC of the 2nd edition of this book.
October 14, 2015
Living an honest life is not always the easiest way to go; but it is the most fulfilling. Whether rich or poor, if you have to lie about who you and what you believe, it will eventually take its toll. One lie leads to another, as Ash Armitage of 'Sinders and Ash' by Tara Lain finds out, and soon you're not sure what's important and what isn't.
Even though Ash is rich and famous, he's poor when it comes to freedom. His life isn't his own; it's dictated by his status. Ash has a lot of potential, perhaps, but little motivation. Mark, aka Sinders, on the other hand, is as poor as a church mouse and prefers a profile lower than Ash could ever wish for. Instead of having all the privileges of the rich like Ash does, Mark has been on his own since he was sixteen. Everything he has achieved has been through his own ingenuity and determination. Even though Mark has very little money, he has big dreams and he's willing to do whatever it takes to achieve them. Living openly as a gay man hasn't always been the easiest choice, but for Mark, it's the only way. Ash admires Mark's honesty and bravery and yearns to be like him. When it comes down to the wire, Ash has to choose between loving Mark and keeping his fortune.
Although this story has all the makings of a modern-day fairy tale, including a spoiled rich prince, a poor hardworking commoner, and a fairy godmother, Tara has also woven in some serious issues, such as gay children being rejected by their parents and their fight for survival. She also reminds us how insidious lies can be, stealing our dignity and plaguing our consciences. She's also thrown in some positive messages, like being true to oneself, anything you can dream you can do, money can't buy happiness, and last but certainly not least, that clothes don't make the man or woman. I'd recommend this book to anyone who wants to read an enjoyable, sensual story, full of charm, wit, age-old wisdom, and, of course, as with all fairy tales, a happily ever after ending.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Even though Ash is rich and famous, he's poor when it comes to freedom. His life isn't his own; it's dictated by his status. Ash has a lot of potential, perhaps, but little motivation. Mark, aka Sinders, on the other hand, is as poor as a church mouse and prefers a profile lower than Ash could ever wish for. Instead of having all the privileges of the rich like Ash does, Mark has been on his own since he was sixteen. Everything he has achieved has been through his own ingenuity and determination. Even though Mark has very little money, he has big dreams and he's willing to do whatever it takes to achieve them. Living openly as a gay man hasn't always been the easiest choice, but for Mark, it's the only way. Ash admires Mark's honesty and bravery and yearns to be like him. When it comes down to the wire, Ash has to choose between loving Mark and keeping his fortune.
Although this story has all the makings of a modern-day fairy tale, including a spoiled rich prince, a poor hardworking commoner, and a fairy godmother, Tara has also woven in some serious issues, such as gay children being rejected by their parents and their fight for survival. She also reminds us how insidious lies can be, stealing our dignity and plaguing our consciences. She's also thrown in some positive messages, like being true to oneself, anything you can dream you can do, money can't buy happiness, and last but certainly not least, that clothes don't make the man or woman. I'd recommend this book to anyone who wants to read an enjoyable, sensual story, full of charm, wit, age-old wisdom, and, of course, as with all fairy tales, a happily ever after ending.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 5, 2015
This was a cute book and the start of a new series by Tara Lain that is made of novels loosely based on well-known fairytales. This book, Sinders and Ash, is based on Cinderella and Ms.Lain is very creative with how she alters a traditional hetero Fairytale to fit a male/male couple! I really enjoyed the story, which Although it was pretty much insta love between the two MC it is tolerable because it's suppose to be that way. I really think all will enjoy this book and I am eagerly awaiting the "Snow White" story coming next!
Full review will be posted on Jessewaves reviews and Alpha Book Club; ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
Full review will be posted on Jessewaves reviews and Alpha Book Club; ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2012
I loved this story. Although there were very close calls, nothing traumatic happened to Sinders which I like. They indeed get their HEA. I
Over that there was another couple in the story who were also great decent people. I love Carstairs pennymaker. I actually thought he was a magical creature but apparently he is just a rich and very connected human.
Over that there was another couple in the story who were also great decent people. I love Carstairs pennymaker. I actually thought he was a magical creature but apparently he is just a rich and very connected human.
March 23, 2013
Really nice and fun take on the Cinderella story. I smiled to myself a couple of times because I think the MCs were just adorable. The downside was, for me, the length of the story. I would have loooved for it to be much longer, but alas, I'm not that lucky.. Still it's a lovely story, I'll probably read again when I want to read a makes-me-feel-good book :)
April 12, 2012
Very clever slant on Cinderella, with riches at stake, hidden lesbians, cross dressing and a leprechaun fairy godfather!! Very sweet.
July 9, 2012
Tara Lain has taken a classic fairytale and put a more modern twist on it. Mark was kicked out at 16 and has led a tough life full of hard work. Ash is a rich boy with no work experience. They say opposites attract and that must be right, because boy is it a fierce attraction between these two. Better than that though, is how Mark makes Ash want to be a better man, and Ash inspires Mark to fight for what he wants.
All of Tara’s books are great, I love the personal conflicts and watching the heroes step up and be better people and earn their happy ending. Sinders and Ash was no different, however it was a little awkward in places. I have zero problems with M/M romance, in fact I enjoy them immensely, but this had a Mrs. Doubtfire kind of awkwardness to it without all the funny. Mark ends up having to dress up, literally, at times and while I totally get it, the circumstances just made it pretty awkward.
What’s cool in the book is that there’s sort of a mini story within a story. Ronnie is Ash’s right hand “man” and she gets a surprise ending herself, as does Ash’s leading bridal candidate, Bitsy. Both conclusions leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a grin. The ending is satisfying and fun, but leaves you wanting at least a little more.
All of Tara’s books are great, I love the personal conflicts and watching the heroes step up and be better people and earn their happy ending. Sinders and Ash was no different, however it was a little awkward in places. I have zero problems with M/M romance, in fact I enjoy them immensely, but this had a Mrs. Doubtfire kind of awkwardness to it without all the funny. Mark ends up having to dress up, literally, at times and while I totally get it, the circumstances just made it pretty awkward.
What’s cool in the book is that there’s sort of a mini story within a story. Ronnie is Ash’s right hand “man” and she gets a surprise ending herself, as does Ash’s leading bridal candidate, Bitsy. Both conclusions leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a grin. The ending is satisfying and fun, but leaves you wanting at least a little more.
September 27, 2015
Exactly what I was hoping it'd be! A fairytale. Everything about it was lovely. Such a sweet and magical story. I loved Mark and Ash. Especially enjoyed the little Cinderella nuggets throughout. If you're looking for a sweet, fairytale romance...look no further. A touch or two of steam helps make it sizzle. tsssssss.
September 26, 2015
This is a really cute take on the fairytale.... There is a ball and everything!
The story made me feel as though I was right there with Mark cleaning out the fireplaces and getting ash all over myself. The other MC Ash is so far in the closet that he pretends to be a playboy and has to marry within 2 weeks to gain his inheritence. What a great read. This one will land in my This Is Just Fun Re-Read File. Make me smile!
The story made me feel as though I was right there with Mark cleaning out the fireplaces and getting ash all over myself. The other MC Ash is so far in the closet that he pretends to be a playboy and has to marry within 2 weeks to gain his inheritence. What a great read. This one will land in my This Is Just Fun Re-Read File. Make me smile!
January 18, 2013
A fun read that I devoured in one sitting. The author did a nice job with the characters and the plot line. I actually loved mark in the dresses, unusual and very rags-to-riches. Good stuff.
September 14, 2015
Oh, Oh, Oh, Someone please tell me there are other books where Mr Pennymaker plays matchmaker or that there will be more in the future!!! This book was so much fun to read. I love a book that makes me cry a little, laugh a lot!!!
October 2, 2015
What a fun read. This is a great retelling of the classic Cinderella. This is a light read about Mark (Sinders) and Ash. Perfect book to curl up with for an afternoon.
March 21, 2016
I ended up enjoying this more than I thought I would. Unfortunately, book 2, Driven Snow, didn't really work for me, but I did not have the same issues here. It's a fun and light read, where the odd and seemingly magical Mr. Pennymaker fits into and compliments the story. I was put off a bit in the first few chapters due to unnecessarily vulgar language (usually I'm Cursing McFuckity Pants), it just didn't seem necessary or to fit. But I think it was intentional to differentiate from the classic fairy tale, this is a modern man with modern (if you call jerking off into a sock) masturbatory habits.
The modern twists here worked well. Mark Sintorella ("Sinders" aka Cinderella) works as a housekeeper in an upscale hotel, although he aspires to be a fashion designer and scrimps and saves every penny to put towards fabric. Ash (haha, get it?) is son to a billionaire business mogul who will lose his fortune if he does not marry post haste (aka The Prince).
The way in which they met and continued to meet worked well and did not feel forced. Despite taking place over only a few days or a week, the relationship progression and emotions felt genuine and not overly rushed. They revealed enough about their inner workings and how they react in difficult circumstances for me to feel like they had a good sense of each other. As opposed to "oh hey, you're pretty, I love you!"
I enjoyed the plot twist with Cinder's dresses, and found myself smiling giddily as he began to gain more confidence in himself. Some parts of the fairy tale ending were a bit forced to fit the mold of the story , but I'll admit that I enjoyed watching things play out as they did. Granted, there were no surprises but when you're reading a fairy tale you expect your fairy tale ending!
This light and slightly silly type of book is my favorite to listen to as an audio book. An enjoyable story that I can pop into and out of easily. Kale Williams did a lovely job with the narration, the tone fit the story and he was able to pull off the silly, the serious, and the sexy without difficulty. I preferred this book to the second, as I stated, so even if you didn't like it I would still give this one a try.
Received audio version from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
The modern twists here worked well. Mark Sintorella ("Sinders" aka Cinderella) works as a housekeeper in an upscale hotel, although he aspires to be a fashion designer and scrimps and saves every penny to put towards fabric. Ash (haha, get it?) is son to a billionaire business mogul who will lose his fortune if he does not marry post haste (aka The Prince).
The way in which they met and continued to meet worked well and did not feel forced. Despite taking place over only a few days or a week, the relationship progression and emotions felt genuine and not overly rushed. They revealed enough about their inner workings and how they react in difficult circumstances for me to feel like they had a good sense of each other. As opposed to "oh hey, you're pretty, I love you!"
I enjoyed the plot twist with Cinder's dresses, and found myself smiling giddily as he began to gain more confidence in himself. Some parts of the fairy tale ending were a bit forced to fit the mold of the story , but I'll admit that I enjoyed watching things play out as they did. Granted, there were no surprises but when you're reading a fairy tale you expect your fairy tale ending!
This light and slightly silly type of book is my favorite to listen to as an audio book. An enjoyable story that I can pop into and out of easily. Kale Williams did a lovely job with the narration, the tone fit the story and he was able to pull off the silly, the serious, and the sexy without difficulty. I preferred this book to the second, as I stated, so even if you didn't like it I would still give this one a try.
Received audio version from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
October 16, 2015
I have stated publicly that I am Tara Lain’s biggest fan, and lovely reads like Sinder & Ash are why.
Mark is ambitious. He knows he wants to work in high fashion, and his job at the resort gives him the opportunity to save most of his salary and a quiet space to work on his designs.
Love is not on his agenda.
For that matter, it’s not on Ash’s either. He just needs a nice woman to marry him, so he can inherit his grandfather’s money. Money that he plans on putting to very good use…as soon as the marriage certificate buys him more money than he could hope to earn in this lifetime.
Enter Mr. Pennymaker. Gawd. What I wouldn’t have done to have this little man in my corner thirty years ago. Hell, if he retires, I wouldn’t mind taking over his job. Unlike over at Disney, Mr. Pennymaker does his magic without fairy dust or a wand. He somehow knows the desires of a person’s heart and finds ways to make that happen.
I loved every thing about this book. The plotting is sharp. The dialogue is crisp and the in-laws are meddling. Oh. And the boys do find time to get in a bit of sheet time, which is oh, so hot!
If you haven’t read any of Tara’s work, you are missing out on a gem of MM romance. Fans of Amy Lane and Andrew Grey will appreciate both her contemporary and paranormal titles. Happily Ever Afters are guaranteed.
Highly recommend.
Mark is ambitious. He knows he wants to work in high fashion, and his job at the resort gives him the opportunity to save most of his salary and a quiet space to work on his designs.
Love is not on his agenda.
For that matter, it’s not on Ash’s either. He just needs a nice woman to marry him, so he can inherit his grandfather’s money. Money that he plans on putting to very good use…as soon as the marriage certificate buys him more money than he could hope to earn in this lifetime.
Enter Mr. Pennymaker. Gawd. What I wouldn’t have done to have this little man in my corner thirty years ago. Hell, if he retires, I wouldn’t mind taking over his job. Unlike over at Disney, Mr. Pennymaker does his magic without fairy dust or a wand. He somehow knows the desires of a person’s heart and finds ways to make that happen.
I loved every thing about this book. The plotting is sharp. The dialogue is crisp and the in-laws are meddling. Oh. And the boys do find time to get in a bit of sheet time, which is oh, so hot!
If you haven’t read any of Tara’s work, you are missing out on a gem of MM romance. Fans of Amy Lane and Andrew Grey will appreciate both her contemporary and paranormal titles. Happily Ever Afters are guaranteed.
Highly recommend.
June 10, 2013
I usually don't give 5 stars, but this story is so fun! Adorable. I loved all the characters and Sinders simply ran away with my heart. If you're looking for the perfect fairy tale come true, this is it!
June 28, 2016
When I realized this was a cinder-ella story I thought to myself "oh no" this can't be good. Boy was I wrong. This story had enough quirky elements to it that it kept my interest. Well done and bravo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2014
Five kajillionzillion STARS!!! A wonderful modern retelling of Cinderella. Pulled me in from page one, and took me on a beautiful ride. A must read, and read again, and again.
September 10, 2012
3.5*
Cute read, Mark 'Sinder' was kicked out by his family so to earn money for design school he works at a Hotel and does all the dirty work no one else wants to do.
He is very determined and hardworking and deserves all the help the enigmatic Mr Pennymaker gives him.
Ash gives the impression of a playboy but does have a deeper side that he shows to Sinder.
I liked the side plot with Bitsy!
The Cinderfella fairy tale was sweet, but I had to say, Mark getting constant hard-ons just from a voice or thoughts of Ash got old for me. And I'm never a fan of solo jerk-off scenes. I was pulled out of the story when in a pretty important scene there is name confusion.
I also totally figured out how it was going to end, but that's why it's a Fairytale, everyone gets their dreams to come true, well except for Bitsy's mom! LOL
Cute read, Mark 'Sinder' was kicked out by his family so to earn money for design school he works at a Hotel and does all the dirty work no one else wants to do.
He is very determined and hardworking and deserves all the help the enigmatic Mr Pennymaker gives him.
Ash gives the impression of a playboy but does have a deeper side that he shows to Sinder.
I liked the side plot with Bitsy!
The Cinderfella fairy tale was sweet, but I had to say, Mark getting constant hard-ons just from a voice or thoughts of Ash got old for me. And I'm never a fan of solo jerk-off scenes. I was pulled out of the story when in a pretty important scene there is name confusion.
I also totally figured out how it was going to end, but that's why it's a Fairytale, everyone gets their dreams to come true, well except for Bitsy's mom! LOL
April 4, 2014
3.5 Stars
This was a cute modern day Cinderella story. Sinder (aka Mark) has been working at a hotel/resort. He does all the jobs nobody else wants to do. He works hard and tries to go unnoticed. Sinder dreams of becoming a fashion designer, and works at the hotel to save for college. He was thrown out of the house when he was 16 for being gay.
Ashton Armitage is the son of the 5th wealthiest man in America. In order to obtain his inheritance left by his grandfather, he must marry. Only one problem, he is gay. He has big plans for his inheritance so he is willing to marry a woman for the next 10 years to gain access to the money.
Obviously these two get their HEA. Overall it was a cute but short read.
This was a cute modern day Cinderella story. Sinder (aka Mark) has been working at a hotel/resort. He does all the jobs nobody else wants to do. He works hard and tries to go unnoticed. Sinder dreams of becoming a fashion designer, and works at the hotel to save for college. He was thrown out of the house when he was 16 for being gay.
Ashton Armitage is the son of the 5th wealthiest man in America. In order to obtain his inheritance left by his grandfather, he must marry. Only one problem, he is gay. He has big plans for his inheritance so he is willing to marry a woman for the next 10 years to gain access to the money.
Obviously these two get their HEA. Overall it was a cute but short read.
November 30, 2012
A quirky MM take on the Cinderella fairytale.
The story is literally unbelievable (as in..this is not about realism) and I did wonder (many times) why the hell I was reading it. But honestly, after I decided to bury my disbelief (six feet under in a concrete box)... the story was not that unbearable. It was pure escapism….
The story is literally unbelievable (as in..this is not about realism) and I did wonder (many times) why the hell I was reading it. But honestly, after I decided to bury my disbelief (six feet under in a concrete box)... the story was not that unbearable. It was pure escapism….
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