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The Crimson Fold #1
Until Midnight
They call them the Crimson Fold. High up in their castle they look down on my little world and wield a silent control. That is, until the invitation are sent out.
I never dreamed I’d be selected. They tell me it’s a privilege. I should be honored. But the fear in their eyes doesn’t lie.
If I refuse to go my family will be shunned. If I go? My life and my body will no longer be mine. It’ll be theirs.
At midnight it will be over. At Midnight I’ll be his.
The Hunger Games meets Cinderella. This fairy tale has no happy endings only dark beginnings.
I never dreamed I’d be selected. They tell me it’s a privilege. I should be honored. But the fear in their eyes doesn’t lie.
If I refuse to go my family will be shunned. If I go? My life and my body will no longer be mine. It’ll be theirs.
At midnight it will be over. At Midnight I’ll be his.
The Hunger Games meets Cinderella. This fairy tale has no happy endings only dark beginnings.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 23, 2017
479 people are currently reading
892 people want to read
About the author
Erin Bedford
109 books946 followersErin Bedford is an otaku, recovering coffee addict, and Legend of Zelda fanatic. Her brain is so full of stories that need to be told that she must get them out or explode into a million screaming chibis. Obsessed with fairy tales and bad boys, she hasn’t found a story she can’t twist to match her deviant mind full of innuendos, snarky humor, and dream guys.
On the outside, she’s a work from home mom and bookbinger. One the inside, she’s a thirteen-year-old boy screaming to get out and tell you the pervy joke they found online. As an ex-computer programmer, she dreams of one day combining her love for writing and college credits to make the ultimate video game!
Until then, when she’s not writing, Erin is devouring as many books as possible on her quest to have the biggest book gut of all time. She’s written over thirty books, ranging from paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and even scifi romance.
Also, third person is really weird when writing about yourself. Just putting that out there.
Come chat me up!
www.erinbedford.com
Facebook.com/erinrbedford
twitter.com/erin_bedford
Don’t forget to follow me on Goodreads, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube!
On the outside, she’s a work from home mom and bookbinger. One the inside, she’s a thirteen-year-old boy screaming to get out and tell you the pervy joke they found online. As an ex-computer programmer, she dreams of one day combining her love for writing and college credits to make the ultimate video game!
Until then, when she’s not writing, Erin is devouring as many books as possible on her quest to have the biggest book gut of all time. She’s written over thirty books, ranging from paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and even scifi romance.
Also, third person is really weird when writing about yourself. Just putting that out there.
Come chat me up!
www.erinbedford.com
Facebook.com/erinrbedford
twitter.com/erin_bedford
Don’t forget to follow me on Goodreads, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
November 10, 2017
Cinderella, Selection series, and Hunger Games all mixed together with a twist. This book felt very short. I read it in just a few hours.. But I am intrigued. Already ready for the next book.
October 26, 2017
Until Midnight by Erin Bedford, is a dystopian fairy tale and book in The Crimson Fold series. In this book we are introduced to Clarabelle aka Clara. She grew up in the Glade, the outskirts of society growing the food that the people in the Inner Circle and Core eat. She was the overseer’s daughter. One day her father remarries and they move to the Inner Circle. Clara is looked down upon because she’s different than the rest of the girls. She has no idea about the Election process or what to expect. Then the day comes for it to happen and she receives an invitation to go to the castle. She really doesn’t have a choice on whether to go or not. If she refuses to go then her family will be shunned but if she goes and is chosen then she will have to stay there in whatever capacity that she is chosen for. Regardless of what happens her life will be changed forever.
Until Midnight is a unique twist on the Cinderella story that we are all familiar with. As you read this book you will definitely get the Hunger Games meets Cinderella vibe. For me, it’s very apparent in the story but I enjoyed it for the most part. Clara is different from the girls who are picked and it proves to be in her favor. There is an air of mystery and an undercurrent of political intrigue as well in this story. You can tell that there is more going on that meets the eye. Due to being so different, and being from the Glades, Clara has a target painted on her back. Some feel that she doesn’t belong and others think that she will be the change that they need.
My first objection to this story is that it needs quite a bit of editing. There are several spelling errors throughout the story and even some grammatical errors as well. While it doesn’t detract from the enjoy ability of the story for me they can be distracting at times. I heard that there was an issue with Amazon getting out the correct copy of the story so hopefully these issues will be quickly fixed. For the majority of the story Clara is a strong character who faces most of the problems that come her way really well. I did get a bit annoyed a couple of times, when she is told and even knows that she’s marked to be targeted, but she seems to quickly forget or act like she doesn’t care. She’s almost harmed in one particular incident because she was careless. I felt that she should have been more focused and paying attention to her surroundings.
I am an avid fan of this author and look forward to her next book in this series. The book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger to leave us wondering what will happen next. I just hope that Clara doesn’t do or say anything stupid or that she will surely regret because of how she feels when the story ends. There is a lot riding on her shoulders and I feel she needs to put herself aside for what is best for all. I am going to rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. The editorial issues are something I can’t look past, but this story is a must read despite it all. I enjoy fairy tale retellings and this book does not disappoint.
Until Midnight is a unique twist on the Cinderella story that we are all familiar with. As you read this book you will definitely get the Hunger Games meets Cinderella vibe. For me, it’s very apparent in the story but I enjoyed it for the most part. Clara is different from the girls who are picked and it proves to be in her favor. There is an air of mystery and an undercurrent of political intrigue as well in this story. You can tell that there is more going on that meets the eye. Due to being so different, and being from the Glades, Clara has a target painted on her back. Some feel that she doesn’t belong and others think that she will be the change that they need.
My first objection to this story is that it needs quite a bit of editing. There are several spelling errors throughout the story and even some grammatical errors as well. While it doesn’t detract from the enjoy ability of the story for me they can be distracting at times. I heard that there was an issue with Amazon getting out the correct copy of the story so hopefully these issues will be quickly fixed. For the majority of the story Clara is a strong character who faces most of the problems that come her way really well. I did get a bit annoyed a couple of times, when she is told and even knows that she’s marked to be targeted, but she seems to quickly forget or act like she doesn’t care. She’s almost harmed in one particular incident because she was careless. I felt that she should have been more focused and paying attention to her surroundings.
I am an avid fan of this author and look forward to her next book in this series. The book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger to leave us wondering what will happen next. I just hope that Clara doesn’t do or say anything stupid or that she will surely regret because of how she feels when the story ends. There is a lot riding on her shoulders and I feel she needs to put herself aside for what is best for all. I am going to rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. The editorial issues are something I can’t look past, but this story is a must read despite it all. I enjoy fairy tale retellings and this book does not disappoint.
October 28, 2017
I love this writer's books!Erin Bedford puts a totally new twist on the classic tale of Cinderella, this one's a vampire tale. The cover is awesome and so is the book. I received it as a gift in exchange for an honest review and I'm so glad that I did. The main character is Clarabelle, Clara please because as she says that sounds like the name for a cow, who is a farmer's daughter. The people up at the castle are the called The Crimson Fold and look down on everyone else. But then, Clara gets an invitation to join them a gala event. Check it out for an entertaining read.
October 22, 2017
This was a great book from the very start. I loved it and can’t wait for the next installment
October 18, 2018
3 1/2 Stars...
May 21, 2024
Abit like cinderella/ hunger games took me awhile to get into abit of a slow burn but in the end I enjoyed it
July 27, 2018
So the premise of the book was fairly interesting and some of the reviews I read were positive but man I was so disappointed. ***Spoilers ***
1) The characters were not developed. There was barely any personality with pretty much any of the main characters except for Asher, but even so he was a pretty weak character. Also, the author doesn't introduce the characaters. She mentions people later in the book as though we should know them as important people but they were not introduced or described in the beginning. For example: at least some of the Core members names should be mentioned in the beginning. When she mentions the "prize" of winning is to be the mate of Patrick, my thought was "who is this guy and why do I care"
2) The plot moved too fast. In the first two judging events, the main characters spends a hot minute with the judges and suddenly she is in the top ranking spot....for taking off her shoes and having a 3 minute conversation.
3) The main character constantly talks about how she is different because she came from the Glade but there author doesn't explore how this defines her. She is constantly like "Oh i'm different because I'm from the Glade" but there aren't really any contrasts in behavior or actions except that she doesn't know to dance and she doesn't know what the Election is. She arrives to the castle or whatever in normal clothes and people say "oh I could tell you were different/independent because you didn't dress really well" but I'm over here thinking, "maybe she might have if anyone told her that dressing up was normal." If the main character had known and made that choice, then it would have shown how she actually was different. She didn't even consider it on her own to maybe dress better.
4) There is very small talk about "changing things/making them for the better" by certain characters but there is no action. If there is a rebellion in the second book it is going to come out of left field.
There are honestly many other things I could say but I'm just going to stop at four things.
The summaries for some of the author's other books also look promising so I haven't been turned off from her writing yet, but I am definitely going to go into her other book with a more open mind and lower expectations.
1) The characters were not developed. There was barely any personality with pretty much any of the main characters except for Asher, but even so he was a pretty weak character. Also, the author doesn't introduce the characaters. She mentions people later in the book as though we should know them as important people but they were not introduced or described in the beginning. For example: at least some of the Core members names should be mentioned in the beginning. When she mentions the "prize" of winning is to be the mate of Patrick, my thought was "who is this guy and why do I care"
2) The plot moved too fast. In the first two judging events, the main characters spends a hot minute with the judges and suddenly she is in the top ranking spot....for taking off her shoes and having a 3 minute conversation.
3) The main character constantly talks about how she is different because she came from the Glade but there author doesn't explore how this defines her. She is constantly like "Oh i'm different because I'm from the Glade" but there aren't really any contrasts in behavior or actions except that she doesn't know to dance and she doesn't know what the Election is. She arrives to the castle or whatever in normal clothes and people say "oh I could tell you were different/independent because you didn't dress really well" but I'm over here thinking, "maybe she might have if anyone told her that dressing up was normal." If the main character had known and made that choice, then it would have shown how she actually was different. She didn't even consider it on her own to maybe dress better.
4) There is very small talk about "changing things/making them for the better" by certain characters but there is no action. If there is a rebellion in the second book it is going to come out of left field.
There are honestly many other things I could say but I'm just going to stop at four things.
The summaries for some of the author's other books also look promising so I haven't been turned off from her writing yet, but I am definitely going to go into her other book with a more open mind and lower expectations.
January 25, 2018
I came across this books by chance as a recommended for me based on the types of books I enjoy reading. I jumped on it because it is right up my ally of preferred genres. I was intrigued from the synopsis and took a chance.
I did NOT think this was a vampire story. The entire book I thought it was just a dystopian type novel. I was not expecting it to be paranormal. Honestly the whole vampire thing thrown in at the end caught me off guard.
I felt like the story was a bit rushed. There was a lack in character development. I would have enjoyed more of a background on all the characters. The main character was as clueless as they came. I don't know how someone grows up in a world like hers and is completely dumbfounded to how her country is ran. She acted as if she had lived under a rock for 17 years and now is awake and the center of everyone's attention.
This story was a bit too much Hunger Games, Selection Series, and Twilight all in one. Some of the characters were a bit too similar and the idea was not as unique as I had hoped. Asher was a vampire version of Cenna, companions included. We had a points competition system that was a combination of the Hunger Games and the Selection Series bachelor elimination rounds, but not as detailed. The whole book lacked descriptive details. It was the cliff notes version. Did I mention everything was rushed? Oh and our main character Clarabelle was a brain fogged Bella from Twilight with the attitude of Katniss. It was almost as if the three series were patch worked together in this which was sad because it took away from the uniqueness this could have had.
I am on the fence whether I will pick up book two. It didn't leave me with enough pull to make me anxiously wait for it. Maybe if book two had been out I would have gone into it from curiosity but at this point I may forget to look it up.
I did NOT think this was a vampire story. The entire book I thought it was just a dystopian type novel. I was not expecting it to be paranormal. Honestly the whole vampire thing thrown in at the end caught me off guard.
I felt like the story was a bit rushed. There was a lack in character development. I would have enjoyed more of a background on all the characters. The main character was as clueless as they came. I don't know how someone grows up in a world like hers and is completely dumbfounded to how her country is ran. She acted as if she had lived under a rock for 17 years and now is awake and the center of everyone's attention.
This story was a bit too much Hunger Games, Selection Series, and Twilight all in one. Some of the characters were a bit too similar and the idea was not as unique as I had hoped. Asher was a vampire version of Cenna, companions included. We had a points competition system that was a combination of the Hunger Games and the Selection Series bachelor elimination rounds, but not as detailed. The whole book lacked descriptive details. It was the cliff notes version. Did I mention everything was rushed? Oh and our main character Clarabelle was a brain fogged Bella from Twilight with the attitude of Katniss. It was almost as if the three series were patch worked together in this which was sad because it took away from the uniqueness this could have had.
I am on the fence whether I will pick up book two. It didn't leave me with enough pull to make me anxiously wait for it. Maybe if book two had been out I would have gone into it from curiosity but at this point I may forget to look it up.
June 3, 2018
See the original review of Until Midnight and more here.
Until Midnight is the first novel in The Crimson Fold series by USA Today bestselling author Erin Bedford. This novel is a whimsical, dark retelling of a dystopian Cinderella. The story follows Clarabelle, a seventeen-year old girl whose father has recently married a widow with two daughters. This marriage uproots Clara and her father from the outer skirts of the kingdom known as The Glade- a place that grows and harvests food for the rest of the kingdom, leaving very little for those in the Glade- and brings them into the more lavish and gluttonous lifestyle of the Inner Circle. Clara is still trying to adjust to her new life when an invitation is left at her new home…with her name on it. Clara learns about an annual tradition in the Inner Circle where the eldest child of a household is invited to the palace- or the Core- to meet the Crimson Fold- an elite circle of people that never wander from the palace- and their ruler, Patrick Blordril.
Armed with very little knowledge of what occurs at the ball within the Core, and a great deal of resentment towards those who rule over their kingdom, Clara is thrust into a competition that could either 1. See that she serves out the rest of her life as a servant or companion, or 2. Send her home with her memory of her time at the Core erased and a permanent alteration of her mental state. Luckily, Clara’s “fairy godmother” arrives in the form of a rakish and charming Asher and his three sanguine and beautiful female companions. With Asher and his companions guiding Clara through the challenges of the Core festivities and tests, Clara finds herself dodging lethal, nefarious attacks from threatened competitors, uncovering secrets of the Crimson Fold, and realizing that the world she thought she knew may just be an illusion.
Clara’s character was well-developed, and she remained consistent with her feelings throughout the novel. I enjoyed her quirkiness and found myself chuckling at some of her mannerisms and responses to the tests within the story (she’s as terrible in heels as I am!). I would have liked, however, to learn more about Clara’s relationship with her father, especially with him having raised her after her mother’s death, and her earlier need to discuss the invitation with him. The story provided enough villainous characters, potential friends, and a love-interest to keep me satisfied.
Speaking of love-interests…Now, I am a HUGE fan of romance. As such, it always makes my heart sigh in contentment when a burgeoning love is introduced. I can definitely detect a bit of something brewing between Patrick and Clara- which makes me exceedingly pleased. However, their interactions were quite limited in the story, so I am not entirely convinced that they will have a happily ever after. I remain optimistic! And I look forward to delving more into their relationship in the next novel.
Until Midnight was a fantastical and whimsical story that overflowed with intriguing characters, a heart-pounding plot, and enough surprises to leave me desperate to get my hands on the second novel.
Four stars for Until Midnight!
Until Midnight is the first novel in The Crimson Fold series by USA Today bestselling author Erin Bedford. This novel is a whimsical, dark retelling of a dystopian Cinderella. The story follows Clarabelle, a seventeen-year old girl whose father has recently married a widow with two daughters. This marriage uproots Clara and her father from the outer skirts of the kingdom known as The Glade- a place that grows and harvests food for the rest of the kingdom, leaving very little for those in the Glade- and brings them into the more lavish and gluttonous lifestyle of the Inner Circle. Clara is still trying to adjust to her new life when an invitation is left at her new home…with her name on it. Clara learns about an annual tradition in the Inner Circle where the eldest child of a household is invited to the palace- or the Core- to meet the Crimson Fold- an elite circle of people that never wander from the palace- and their ruler, Patrick Blordril.
Armed with very little knowledge of what occurs at the ball within the Core, and a great deal of resentment towards those who rule over their kingdom, Clara is thrust into a competition that could either 1. See that she serves out the rest of her life as a servant or companion, or 2. Send her home with her memory of her time at the Core erased and a permanent alteration of her mental state. Luckily, Clara’s “fairy godmother” arrives in the form of a rakish and charming Asher and his three sanguine and beautiful female companions. With Asher and his companions guiding Clara through the challenges of the Core festivities and tests, Clara finds herself dodging lethal, nefarious attacks from threatened competitors, uncovering secrets of the Crimson Fold, and realizing that the world she thought she knew may just be an illusion.
Clara’s character was well-developed, and she remained consistent with her feelings throughout the novel. I enjoyed her quirkiness and found myself chuckling at some of her mannerisms and responses to the tests within the story (she’s as terrible in heels as I am!). I would have liked, however, to learn more about Clara’s relationship with her father, especially with him having raised her after her mother’s death, and her earlier need to discuss the invitation with him. The story provided enough villainous characters, potential friends, and a love-interest to keep me satisfied.
Speaking of love-interests…Now, I am a HUGE fan of romance. As such, it always makes my heart sigh in contentment when a burgeoning love is introduced. I can definitely detect a bit of something brewing between Patrick and Clara- which makes me exceedingly pleased. However, their interactions were quite limited in the story, so I am not entirely convinced that they will have a happily ever after. I remain optimistic! And I look forward to delving more into their relationship in the next novel.
Until Midnight was a fantastical and whimsical story that overflowed with intriguing characters, a heart-pounding plot, and enough surprises to leave me desperate to get my hands on the second novel.
Four stars for Until Midnight!
January 26, 2021
Review to follow because I have A LOT of gripes about this book but I’m too tired at the moment to do my rant justice...
EDIT: I'm revising my rating down to one star because, in thinking about it, I was too generous before.
EDIT: Okay, okay, okay I'm ready...
EDIT: I'm revising my rating down to one star because, in thinking about it, I was too generous before.
EDIT: Okay, okay, okay I'm ready...
May 2, 2019
This story is loosely based on the Cinderella storyline. Clarabella (Clara) has just received an invitation to a ball at the Crimson Fold and Albans Annual Election Ceremony. This ball and the status that you can achieve will greatly help your family. So her indifferent stepmother Belinda, her snobbish step sister Julianna and her little sweet step sister Lea were all anxiously awaiting her to open it. Clara wanted to wait till her father got home to one it, but Belinda acted like she mistaken it immediately. When she did she saw she had only 48 hrs till they would pick her up. Her father won't be home by then and her damn stepmother new that! She also found out her best friend Marsha would be going to. She didn't know they took men, but he was the eldest child in his family. For this choosing you have to be between 18 and 21. After 21 they no longer want you. This is all new to Clara as her father hasn't been married that long to Belinda. In reality Julianna should have been chosen instead of her so it looks like someone picked her out purposely. Once they were picked up and taken to the palace and shown their rooms everything changes. There is a ton of surprises in this ongoing story. One of the consists has tried to poison those higher on the leader board and it seems like the leader of the Crimson Fold Patrick Blordril wants her. This is a really enjoyable read and I can't wait to read the next book in this ongoing series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2025
A dystopian Cinderella retelling with a paranormal twist. This novella really caught my attention.
Clara grew up in the Glade until her mother passed away and her father remarried a woman from the Inner Circle. Now, Election Day is right around the corner and Clara has no idea what to expect. More than likely, her stepsister will be chosen due to Clara's upbringing. To everyone's surprise, it's Clara's name on the invitation. Once she opens the invitation, there is no going back and Clara's life will forever be changed.
This was such a great twist to Cinderella.
There are four districts in this world: Wilds, Glade, Inner City, and Core. At this time, we know nothing about the Wilds, other than that animals live there. The Glade is where Clara was raised. It's where the poor live and work to grow food for the Inner City and Core. The Inner City is where the middle-class people live, and the Core is for the elites.
Clara is a very different guest from what the people in Core are used to. While every other guest is dressed in their finest clothing, Clara is not. She sticks out immediately. She also has seen the worst of the worst while living in the Glade and is not afraid to speak her mind.
I am really interested in finding out what comes next in The Crimson Fold series.
cinderella • dystopian romance • enemies to lovers • fairytale • paranormal romance • retelling • supernatural • vampire
Clara grew up in the Glade until her mother passed away and her father remarried a woman from the Inner Circle. Now, Election Day is right around the corner and Clara has no idea what to expect. More than likely, her stepsister will be chosen due to Clara's upbringing. To everyone's surprise, it's Clara's name on the invitation. Once she opens the invitation, there is no going back and Clara's life will forever be changed.
This was such a great twist to Cinderella.
There are four districts in this world: Wilds, Glade, Inner City, and Core. At this time, we know nothing about the Wilds, other than that animals live there. The Glade is where Clara was raised. It's where the poor live and work to grow food for the Inner City and Core. The Inner City is where the middle-class people live, and the Core is for the elites.
Clara is a very different guest from what the people in Core are used to. While every other guest is dressed in their finest clothing, Clara is not. She sticks out immediately. She also has seen the worst of the worst while living in the Glade and is not afraid to speak her mind.
I am really interested in finding out what comes next in The Crimson Fold series.
cinderella • dystopian romance • enemies to lovers • fairytale • paranormal romance • retelling • supernatural • vampire
April 19, 2018
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Clara has always been out of place. As the overseer's daughter, she worked alongside the farmers but they would never trust to her or talk much with her. As the stepdaughter to a wealthy seamstress in the Inner Circle, she's always been too dirty, too unkempt, and too close to common people around.
But now Clara has the chance to change everything. She's been selected for the Election, an annual event to choose people to work for and with The Fold to run the land of Alban.
Maybe Clara is the breath of fresh air they need to make Alban the place it should always have been.
Final thoughts: This is billed as Hunger Games meets Cinderella. There's also some Selection in here, too. But it's just all too obvious and annoying. None of the characters are built well; they are all shallow and empty. There is no real connection for any of them and people come and go as necessary for the story instead of organically through the story. It's all over the place and things just keep being brought in and then tossed out whenever it's convenient. This is just bad overall. The ending is both obvious and annoying. The revelations made me just so angry and dropped in from nowhere. It is written more like stream-of-consciousness or like a kid telling a story out loud. Nope. Not going to read the next one.
Clara has always been out of place. As the overseer's daughter, she worked alongside the farmers but they would never trust to her or talk much with her. As the stepdaughter to a wealthy seamstress in the Inner Circle, she's always been too dirty, too unkempt, and too close to common people around.
But now Clara has the chance to change everything. She's been selected for the Election, an annual event to choose people to work for and with The Fold to run the land of Alban.
Maybe Clara is the breath of fresh air they need to make Alban the place it should always have been.
Final thoughts: This is billed as Hunger Games meets Cinderella. There's also some Selection in here, too. But it's just all too obvious and annoying. None of the characters are built well; they are all shallow and empty. There is no real connection for any of them and people come and go as necessary for the story instead of organically through the story. It's all over the place and things just keep being brought in and then tossed out whenever it's convenient. This is just bad overall. The ending is both obvious and annoying. The revelations made me just so angry and dropped in from nowhere. It is written more like stream-of-consciousness or like a kid telling a story out loud. Nope. Not going to read the next one.
July 10, 2018
So, I had been seeing ads for this book everywhere online. It seemed intriguing and it seemed to have a lot of positive reviews...but I was disappointed.
It started off strong, it truly did. I was curious about Clara's world and I felt her confusion as she was invited into The Crimson Fold. On one hand, I liked that I felt as lost as she was, but on the other, I felt that the world that was described was very shallow.
Clara's entire time spent in the castle moved very quickly. Not much happened there other than she went through the trials/interviews which all results in her running away in angry tears. They weren't really anything difficult at all to face. No one took the time to explain to Clara why she was there or the purpose of anything, but there felt like there was very little mystery. She just seemed to be in a fancy house and I didn't feel suspicious of anything at all. Her love interest - she didn't say anything to him until the final chapters and just thought "Why am I thinking about him?"
Nothing about this really held my interest or brought on heart-stopping moments.
**Spoilers**
At the end of the book, she realizes that they are all vampires and that Patrick (love interest she hasn't spoken to) has chosen her to be his convert and now they must work together to fix their broken society.
It started off strong, it truly did. I was curious about Clara's world and I felt her confusion as she was invited into The Crimson Fold. On one hand, I liked that I felt as lost as she was, but on the other, I felt that the world that was described was very shallow.
Clara's entire time spent in the castle moved very quickly. Not much happened there other than she went through the trials/interviews which all results in her running away in angry tears. They weren't really anything difficult at all to face. No one took the time to explain to Clara why she was there or the purpose of anything, but there felt like there was very little mystery. She just seemed to be in a fancy house and I didn't feel suspicious of anything at all. Her love interest - she didn't say anything to him until the final chapters and just thought "Why am I thinking about him?"
Nothing about this really held my interest or brought on heart-stopping moments.
**Spoilers**
At the end of the book, she realizes that they are all vampires and that Patrick (love interest she hasn't spoken to) has chosen her to be his convert and now they must work together to fix their broken society.
October 25, 2017
In this dystopian retelling of Cinderella, Clarabelle Feldson is tricked by her stepmother into accepting an invitation from the ruling Crimsom Fold to attend a mysterious ball which has the potential to change her and her family's lives forever. At the castle, Claire's guide Asher informs her she's there to compete for one of three positions, servant, companion, or convert, someone who's inducted into the Fold as a lover or spouse. Asher advises Clara to compete for the convert position with Patrick Blordril, the leader. After the contestants are seen by the Fold, scores are posted and Clara gets a 9/10 and a red score, which means she's being considered for the position of convert. Asher warns Clara her high score puts a target on her back and the other contestants will try to make her fail. As if that wasn't enough to worry about, Clara finds out that things aren't as they seem and that the Fold are hiding deadly secrets. With danger lurking all around, Will Clara make it out alive?
Erin Bedford delivers an intriguing, exciting and suspenseful story that will hook you in and can't wait to read the next book in this series
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
Erin Bedford delivers an intriguing, exciting and suspenseful story that will hook you in and can't wait to read the next book in this series
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
May 8, 2018
Until Midnight is book one in the Crimson Fold series by Erin Bedford. It is a mix between Cinderella and Hunger Games to me. The book is kind of short but I enjoyed it and am looking forward to book 2. The Audiobook is Narrated by Melissa Moran, I was very happy with her rendition. She kept my attention and done a great job with her different voices.
As with Cinderella, Clarabelle aka Clara's father has married so you get the wicked Stepmother and stepsisters, and the absent Father. Instead of invitations to a ball, invitations to an election are sent to the oldest child of each family. The election is buried in secrecy. If the person invited does not make the cut their memory is erased of their time at the election. If you make the cut you will not being going home to your family, but your family gets bragging rights that one of their own made the cut.
Clara gets the invitation, and her step mother cannot be more happy that she got it and not one of her daughters. She really has no choice but to go, even though she does not want to. Once she arrives she learns there is a series of interviews to see if you are a chosen to be inducted into The Crimson Fold.
The book has a hint of romance, some mystery. and adventure. I like Clara's character.
As with Cinderella, Clarabelle aka Clara's father has married so you get the wicked Stepmother and stepsisters, and the absent Father. Instead of invitations to a ball, invitations to an election are sent to the oldest child of each family. The election is buried in secrecy. If the person invited does not make the cut their memory is erased of their time at the election. If you make the cut you will not being going home to your family, but your family gets bragging rights that one of their own made the cut.
Clara gets the invitation, and her step mother cannot be more happy that she got it and not one of her daughters. She really has no choice but to go, even though she does not want to. Once she arrives she learns there is a series of interviews to see if you are a chosen to be inducted into The Crimson Fold.
The book has a hint of romance, some mystery. and adventure. I like Clara's character.
August 28, 2019
Great plot, but the characters are bland
This author has a great voice for telling the story and the plot laid out is exciting, however the character development lacks so much that it’s frustrating as hell to keep going. Starts off like hunger games and the selection which pulls in interest at first but the main character, Clara, is annoying and doesn’t actually have enough interesting things about her to make it believable that anyone wants her to be a convert to them. The only people of the crimson fold they introduce in minor depth are Patrick and Beaford and they both don’t seem interesting at all, I neither hate nor like either of them. They’re just there. The election process is too fast to be believable and Clara is so bland that besides Asher’s dresses and style, she doesn’t give off more than an uneducated whiner. I wanted to like this book but it’s missing at minimum 200 pages of detail/development that shouldn’t have been skipped. I truly wish the author takes the plot and redevelops it. There’s so much potential and her writing style is good; it’s just not enough to keep interest.
This author has a great voice for telling the story and the plot laid out is exciting, however the character development lacks so much that it’s frustrating as hell to keep going. Starts off like hunger games and the selection which pulls in interest at first but the main character, Clara, is annoying and doesn’t actually have enough interesting things about her to make it believable that anyone wants her to be a convert to them. The only people of the crimson fold they introduce in minor depth are Patrick and Beaford and they both don’t seem interesting at all, I neither hate nor like either of them. They’re just there. The election process is too fast to be believable and Clara is so bland that besides Asher’s dresses and style, she doesn’t give off more than an uneducated whiner. I wanted to like this book but it’s missing at minimum 200 pages of detail/development that shouldn’t have been skipped. I truly wish the author takes the plot and redevelops it. There’s so much potential and her writing style is good; it’s just not enough to keep interest.
January 7, 2018
Quite enjoyable
This is the first book I've read from this author and I enjoyed it quite a bit. I definitely got the hunger games\Cinderella theme which worked out quite well together.
The world building was described quite well throughout the whole book giving me glimpses of what society was like in each "circle". Our main character Clarabelle is drawn out of her normal life and tossed from one life changing event to another, pulled into a game she is not prepared for. I found her a bit nieve and a bit bull headed at times. Quite a mix yes but some choices she made didn't quite make sense. She is strong in spirit and set apart from the rest so I can't wait to see where book two will take her. I love Asher but this book has you questioning everyone's motives so we will see if my fondness for him persists.
Lots of mystery and secrets fill the pages of this book and kept me intrigued until the end. My interest is thoroughly piqued and I am eagerly awaiting book two. If you like dystopian fairly tales shrouded in mystery I fully recommend this book.
This is the first book I've read from this author and I enjoyed it quite a bit. I definitely got the hunger games\Cinderella theme which worked out quite well together.
The world building was described quite well throughout the whole book giving me glimpses of what society was like in each "circle". Our main character Clarabelle is drawn out of her normal life and tossed from one life changing event to another, pulled into a game she is not prepared for. I found her a bit nieve and a bit bull headed at times. Quite a mix yes but some choices she made didn't quite make sense. She is strong in spirit and set apart from the rest so I can't wait to see where book two will take her. I love Asher but this book has you questioning everyone's motives so we will see if my fondness for him persists.
Lots of mystery and secrets fill the pages of this book and kept me intrigued until the end. My interest is thoroughly piqued and I am eagerly awaiting book two. If you like dystopian fairly tales shrouded in mystery I fully recommend this book.
August 13, 2019
Such a good twist
If you are a fan of The Selection series by Kiera Cass and love a good Cinderella vibed story with a darkish twist then this is the book for you.
Until Midnight, starts off with a poor girl who has recently moved into a new 'circle' which is higher up in society. She is chosen for 'The Party' and what entails after this is a story you need to read.
The FMC Clara has grown up working hard to survive and has a no BS attitude. So she is the shock of the party when she doesn't hold back her opinions and kicks off her heels.
Clara is relatable because she stands up for the impoverished and the injustice in her world.
There were a few grammatical errors but only once did I have to re-read a sentence to make sense of it.
The twist at the end actually got me, it was subtle and kind of just slips in which had me going "what the? I did not see that coming".
Overall, this book sets up a great foundation for the series and I can't wait to see what Clara chooses to do in book 2.
If you are a fan of The Selection series by Kiera Cass and love a good Cinderella vibed story with a darkish twist then this is the book for you.
Until Midnight, starts off with a poor girl who has recently moved into a new 'circle' which is higher up in society. She is chosen for 'The Party' and what entails after this is a story you need to read.
The FMC Clara has grown up working hard to survive and has a no BS attitude. So she is the shock of the party when she doesn't hold back her opinions and kicks off her heels.
Clara is relatable because she stands up for the impoverished and the injustice in her world.
There were a few grammatical errors but only once did I have to re-read a sentence to make sense of it.
The twist at the end actually got me, it was subtle and kind of just slips in which had me going "what the? I did not see that coming".
Overall, this book sets up a great foundation for the series and I can't wait to see what Clara chooses to do in book 2.
January 18, 2021
I had this on my TBR and planned to use it for a reading challenge.
....Until I found I didn't actually own it. Not sure how it managed to find it's way onto TWO of my TBR lists without my having it, but I digress.
By the time I figured that out, I'd already fallen for the synopsis. I *had* to have this book (even though the ebook was a little higher priced than I would've liked).
And even beyond that, I didn't expect to like this as much as I actually did.
I. Loved. It. So much. And promptly bought book 2 about 2 minutes after finishing it.
I'd like to say I was pulled in right from the start, but I wasn't. If I'm honest, I had to restart the book several times even after making it as far as Chapter 2-3. I had text to speech on and for some reason it just wasn't sinking into my brain.
But when it finally sunk in, it pulled me in deep and didn't let go. At the time I write this, it's been almost 5 days since I finished reading, and I'm *still* thinking about it; still feeling like I'm in the world.
I very much look forward to book 2!
....Until I found I didn't actually own it. Not sure how it managed to find it's way onto TWO of my TBR lists without my having it, but I digress.
By the time I figured that out, I'd already fallen for the synopsis. I *had* to have this book (even though the ebook was a little higher priced than I would've liked).
And even beyond that, I didn't expect to like this as much as I actually did.
I. Loved. It. So much. And promptly bought book 2 about 2 minutes after finishing it.
I'd like to say I was pulled in right from the start, but I wasn't. If I'm honest, I had to restart the book several times even after making it as far as Chapter 2-3. I had text to speech on and for some reason it just wasn't sinking into my brain.
But when it finally sunk in, it pulled me in deep and didn't let go. At the time I write this, it's been almost 5 days since I finished reading, and I'm *still* thinking about it; still feeling like I'm in the world.
I very much look forward to book 2!
November 9, 2017
This book is the first in a new series. Against all odds, Clara has been chosen to attend the ball above her stepsister. She has no choice and has to attend or her family will be shunned. However, she has no idea what goes on at these balls, only that some have never returned, and some have been returned but different than before. While there, she learns more than she ever imagined, and she knows she’ll do whatever it takes to change things, because while there, she learns secrets that can kill. Wow! This book was so much different than I thought it would be! I’m already a big fan of Ms. Bedford’s, but this book just truly shows what a great talent she is. Besides being well-written, the plot was very imaginative and the characters were so multi-dimensional, I wasn’t sure who to root for: all or none!! I just loved them all, but I think my favorite character was Asher; he was just so very interesting. I really enjoyed the new world that Ms. Bedford has created, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us next. Highly recommend! Thanks to the author for the e-book which I reviewed voluntarily.
October 25, 2017
I liked this story. Like many other books that re-tell fairy tales, the basic outline of Cinderella's stepmother, stepsister, and the great ball are mixed together and set in a dystopian future to give a great read. I have to say I was pleasantly surprised with how good it turned out. Not because of the author, but because it is a re-telling. I have to admit once I started reading I was hooked and had to see how it would end. II really liked that the story did not depend on sex or an orgy to help plot line. I felt like I was right there with Clara trying to learn what was going on. I really like that there will be more. I just got introduced to everyone and although I love and hate some of the characters, I cannot wait to see what happens to my favorites and where the series goes. I honestly really liked the story and its mix of genres and the bit of mystery that was there too. Really liked Clara and expect great things.
March 30, 2019
I was really excited to start this book after reading the blurb. So I was even more sad when it started to fall flat. We didn't get to see much interaction between the MC and Patrick. So by the end of the book they don't even really know each other, yet somehow he is smitten over her. I also wasn't a huge fan of the MC or the two potential love interests. My favorite character was Asher, who was well rounded and complex but he was only the stylist! (He might be more significant later in the series...or at least I hope) The events that led up to the ending have me curious enough to maybe pick up book two but I'm still not quite sure. I liked the idea of this book, I felt like it had so much potential but I felt like not much happened... I was hoping for more of an actual competition, more romance, more backstabbing and a little more of everything.
Over all I felt like the characters and plot were lacking. Another thing that was frustrating was that the main character kept talking about how different she was since she was from the Glades (a lower cast) but no matter how many times she said she was different or acted like she was better than those around her she never proved it through her actions.
Maybe I just need another day to sit on my thoughts because I always love giving positive reviews but as of right now this is how I feel.
Over all I felt like the characters and plot were lacking. Another thing that was frustrating was that the main character kept talking about how different she was since she was from the Glades (a lower cast) but no matter how many times she said she was different or acted like she was better than those around her she never proved it through her actions.
Maybe I just need another day to sit on my thoughts because I always love giving positive reviews but as of right now this is how I feel.
May 2, 2019
The Crimson Fold keeps its mysteries and secrets, until you enter.. and there is no going back.
For Clara, the invitation to the ball means a new beginning, or maybe a new end. Consolation for her might be the fact her best friend Marsha was picked too. Only, her picking is suspicious, it should have been Julianna who gets the invitation, not Clara...
A story resembling the classic tale of Cinderella, ending up in a supernatural world with conflicted society and very little efforts from the side of those who hold the power to make their world fair and just. How could they, though, when it suits their interests now..
Clara is an innocent, maybe even naive heroine, sometimes too delicate for the world she was thrown in, and her contradictory feelings and confusion are mostly what attract the reader's interest. Patrick is also worth the attention, though I would like to see more development in both characters and world building. Let's see in the next book.
For Clara, the invitation to the ball means a new beginning, or maybe a new end. Consolation for her might be the fact her best friend Marsha was picked too. Only, her picking is suspicious, it should have been Julianna who gets the invitation, not Clara...
A story resembling the classic tale of Cinderella, ending up in a supernatural world with conflicted society and very little efforts from the side of those who hold the power to make their world fair and just. How could they, though, when it suits their interests now..
Clara is an innocent, maybe even naive heroine, sometimes too delicate for the world she was thrown in, and her contradictory feelings and confusion are mostly what attract the reader's interest. Patrick is also worth the attention, though I would like to see more development in both characters and world building. Let's see in the next book.
October 25, 2017
I was not sure what to expect from this storyline but found myself intrigued. You have a young woman unhappy with her society and the changes within her family. She is selected for a mysterious event where she has the opportunity to take on some roles if selected. It is a dangerous path but also gives her a chance to make a change if she can survive against the other competitors.
I liked that you get a little bit of information and then it builds quicker and quicker as the story continues. By the end, I was very interested to see what is next for her and what choices she will make.
Clara is a strong, female character who is not afraid of a challenge. She also has a good heart and is very protective of others. She has lived a hard life and makes no apologies.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
I liked that you get a little bit of information and then it builds quicker and quicker as the story continues. By the end, I was very interested to see what is next for her and what choices she will make.
Clara is a strong, female character who is not afraid of a challenge. She also has a good heart and is very protective of others. She has lived a hard life and makes no apologies.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
April 29, 2018
Actual Rating 3.70
I really enjoyed this book. It's a great spin on Cinderella with familiar touches of The Selection, and hints of The Hunger Games. The main character is ok. Sometimes I really love her for speaking her mind and not changing herself while being evaluated and interviewed, but other times she seems a little weak and plain. Regardless I really liked her and the butcher boy with whom she had the closest relationship. The Crimson Fold is very interesting, although I would have liked to have gotten more information on what is to be expected and how Clara's rank would determine her future. Nonetheless I did enjoy this book despite how short it was and almost how abruptly it ended leaving me with tons of questions. I only had a few issues with the story, but not enough to make me dislike this book.
I really enjoyed this book. It's a great spin on Cinderella with familiar touches of The Selection, and hints of The Hunger Games. The main character is ok. Sometimes I really love her for speaking her mind and not changing herself while being evaluated and interviewed, but other times she seems a little weak and plain. Regardless I really liked her and the butcher boy with whom she had the closest relationship. The Crimson Fold is very interesting, although I would have liked to have gotten more information on what is to be expected and how Clara's rank would determine her future. Nonetheless I did enjoy this book despite how short it was and almost how abruptly it ended leaving me with tons of questions. I only had a few issues with the story, but not enough to make me dislike this book.
May 17, 2018
A knock-out read!
This fairy tale has no happy endings...
Only dark beginnings...
Cinderella meets The Selection meets The Hunger Games with a wicked and twisted twist that will leave you dangerously addicted.
What a knock-out and stunning read! This is definitely not your average fairy tale read. This is retelling will hook you and take you out of your comfort zone.
I just can't - I honestly have no words for this book...just read it...now!
Full of mystery, secrets, games, balls, vampires, fear and a hint of romance.
Perfect for readers of dystopian fairy tale retellings.
Reread: Audiobook
The narrator was absolutely amazing and incredible - I felt deeply connected to the heroine. I never have felt this before when I was listening to audiobooks and I absolutely love it!
This fairy tale has no happy endings...
Only dark beginnings...
Cinderella meets The Selection meets The Hunger Games with a wicked and twisted twist that will leave you dangerously addicted.
What a knock-out and stunning read! This is definitely not your average fairy tale read. This is retelling will hook you and take you out of your comfort zone.
I just can't - I honestly have no words for this book...just read it...now!
Full of mystery, secrets, games, balls, vampires, fear and a hint of romance.
Perfect for readers of dystopian fairy tale retellings.
Reread: Audiobook
The narrator was absolutely amazing and incredible - I felt deeply connected to the heroine. I never have felt this before when I was listening to audiobooks and I absolutely love it!
August 26, 2018
*contains spoilers*
I was completely hooked at the beginning! Loved the idea that she'd be invited to go to the castle and compete for the prize! Especially since the castles was full of vampires! Holy cow! The build up was perfect, the story was great and clean, and I like Clara a lot.
The only thing that bugged me was Patrick. He was described as a man with white hair (so instantly I pictured and older man) who couldn't be much older than 30 (wait.. so a young-ish old-ish man?) who becomes the love interest to Clara. What? She's not even in her twenties yet and she's being picked by this 30-year-old, white haired guy who hasn't even talked to her aside from a few polite words? And all of a sudden she's the top choice and he wants to be with her forever? Say what? That was the only thing. I was rooting for Asher to be honest.... Oh well :)
I was completely hooked at the beginning! Loved the idea that she'd be invited to go to the castle and compete for the prize! Especially since the castles was full of vampires! Holy cow! The build up was perfect, the story was great and clean, and I like Clara a lot.
The only thing that bugged me was Patrick. He was described as a man with white hair (so instantly I pictured and older man) who couldn't be much older than 30 (wait.. so a young-ish old-ish man?) who becomes the love interest to Clara. What? She's not even in her twenties yet and she's being picked by this 30-year-old, white haired guy who hasn't even talked to her aside from a few polite words? And all of a sudden she's the top choice and he wants to be with her forever? Say what? That was the only thing. I was rooting for Asher to be honest.... Oh well :)
October 25, 2017
This is a new twist on Cinderella meets Twilight. As soon as I got it in my email as an ARC, I put everything else aside and started reading it immediately. I didn’t stop reading until I was done. I have enjoyed many of Ms Bedford’s books and this was no exception. The protagonist, Clara, has been sent an invitation to a selection ball. The competition was so fierce she ended up in a cat fight and another competitor was poisoned. But the clincher is that no one knows exactly who (or what) is doing the selecting and what happens to those who are sent home since their memories are swiped clean. This was a very enjoyable read one of which I highly recommend to all those who love alternative fairy tales with a little intrigue mixed in.
November 8, 2017
This is a unique twist on a classic monster we all love. Clarabelle is spunky and puts me in mind of a mixture of Belle and Cinderella. She really beats to her own tune, which in this case is a good thing, but also gets her noticed by those you really don't want to notice. The tale has a modern flare, but with a bit of old fashioned flare. It's kind of like Hunger Games meets America's Next Top Model meets 50 Shades of Gray but in a clean way with a fairy tale twist. There's death, drama, fashion and some kink, but again the book is all clean. I'm interested to see how this series will pan out. I volunteered to read this book. I've read most books by this author. She never seems to disappoint.
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