If you breathe a word of what we’ve discussed here to the greater public—a single person outside of that little mischievous group you’ve been traveling with—then I can’t be held responsible for what terrible, unspeakable things happen to them.
I had learned a lot in the last couple of days. I’d figured out how to defeat a fairytale villain with a Toyota 4Runner, how to surf on furniture (à la Aladdin and his magic carpet), and how to confront my wicked step-grandmother. But these bizarre lessons were only just the beginning. If I was to overcome the obstacles in my path, I had plenty of learning left to do—about myself, and about my enemies. Between Nadia the queen of villains, and the leader of the Fairy Godmothers, I was in for a lot of trouble in this final phase of our quest to alter our fates.
Separated from our friends, Daniel and I had to work together to traverse the kingdom of Alderon and evade the antagonists who were trying to destroy us. Moreover, we had to do it while figuring out whether or not we could truly be friends. Not an easy sell when I was prophesized to put an end to his girlfriend. Can you say awkward? With our mission drawing to a close, my significance to Nadia, my relationship with Natalie Poole, and my magical power were about to be revealed.
But among these great truths, little did I know I was on the verge of discovering a strength that would be infinitely more powerful—one that had been inside me all along. . .
Geanna Culbertson is the award-winning author of The Crisanta Knight Series, a fairytale fantasy epic told from the empowering perspective of Cinderella’s daughter. Since Book One’s release in May 2016, the series has won many awards, including a Mom’s Choice Award for best family-friendly media, a Living Now Choice Award for “best lifestyle and world-changing books” in adventure fiction, a Benjamin Franklin Award for best books in Teen Fiction, and many more.
Culbertson graduated USC with the Discovery Scholar honors thesis "Beauty & the Badass: The Origins of the Hero-Princess Archetype." Her passion for both hero and princess main characters sent her on a quest to understand the core pillars of the hero-princess, and in accordance, create a unique series that captures these ideals while also exploring themes such as the power of change, taking fate into your own hands, self-acceptance, trust, the morality of taking life vs. mercy, love interest dynamics, and more.
Culbertson and her series are proud sponsors of various nonprofits including Girls on the Run, Read to a Child, and Girl Scouts. Culbertson is a strong advocate of the missions of these organizations and first got involved with Girls on the Run because of their shared vision of “a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential.” The Crisanta Knight series has been featured in Girls’ Life Magazine as recommended reading for preteen and teen girls. And Culbertson is a regular speaker at schools for an array of age groups (from elementary schools to major universities). She has also given keynote speeches and spoken on panels at many book festivals and bookseller conventions. Her series (six books released as of November 2019) has earned acclaim in 16 countries.
In addition to authoring The Crisanta Knight Series, Culbertson is a full-time manager at a leading digital marketing firm, representing over 25 clients from an array of industries. When Culbertson is not working or writing, she can likely be found at her local karate studio (she is a black belt), getting into shenanigans with her closest friends, or exploring delicious foods across the land!
Wow. That was the only word I could think after I finished the last word of this book and put it down. This book completely blew my socks off (not literally, as I was lounging barefoot in a reclinable chair in Greece, thank you very much indeed).
This series has without a doubt become one of my favorite series of all time and has never ceased to disappoint me. Geanna has constructed a fantasy world so intricate, magical, and yet also so relatable that I can't imagine how anyone wouldn't get sucked into the fabulous adventures of Crisanta Knight & Co.
For anyone who hasn't yet picked up any of the Crisanta Knight books, the first book in the series (called Protagonist Bound) is about a girl called Crisanta Knight, daughter of the infamous Cinderella. She is destined to become a new princess, who should be completely complacent, submissive and above all, extremely princess-like. This is what she gets taught at her fairytale-finishing school Lady Agnue's, and she absolutely despises it, because she believes she is more than just a proper royal. With her combat boots and her magical wand, Cristanta ventures out to change her destiny which the mystical Author has picked out for her and shows that women should take charge of their own lives with a passion, feistiness and a burning fire that is untameable.
Needless to say Crisanta's *cough* little adventure has so far led her through a lot of craziness and awesomeness alike. And I would highly, highly recommend anyone who hasn't yet read any of the books yet to drop everything and go and read them immediately.
Now excuse me while I go and hibernate until the fourth book, The Liar, the Witch and the Wormhole will be released on June 1st 2018. ["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>
The Crisanta Knight series continues to be so much fun! In this third book in the series, Crisanta is still on her journey to find The Author. Crisanta wants to get her story changed, and The Author is the only person that can do that.
Inherent Fate picks up right where book 2 left off. Cristana is stuck in the genie’s lamp with Daniel, and they don’t know how to get out. They do of course, or the book would have been very short! Once out, they must get to the cave to get the third item they have been searching for. I enjoyed that Daniel and Crisanta have some time alone during this book. They are separated from the rest of the group, and I liked seeing their dynamic energy together. I’m very much rooting for the two of them to get together in the end!
Crisanta is a girl that I can’t help but love. Her character is built with such strength, but she’s also a bit flawed, which leaves room for growth. I like that she’s willing to apologize when her decisions were wrong and that she values her friendships so much.
There are some pretty bad characters in this series, and they absolutely showed themselves in book three! I love the spin that Geanna Culbertson adds to her characters. Goldilocks was one that surprised me, and I loved who she was in this book. Every time I meet a new character as I progressed through the book, I loved how the origin of the fairytale character is there, but Culbertson has added so much life to them!
This whole series begins with Crisanta wanting to have the power to write her own story instead of following what The Author has planned for her. I just love this theme, and I think it’s a great reminder that we have control over our choices and lives. I’ve enjoyed being on this journey with Crisanta, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Overall, I loved this book! The characters are easy to love (or hate), and I found the adventures to be exciting and imaginative!
To Read or Not To Read: I would recommend Inherent Fate to readers that enjoy a YA fantasy/retelling story filled with adventure and magic!
I was provided a gifted copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Crisanta, daughter of Cinderella, is a protagonist in the Land of Book. She’s on a journey to find The Author and change the fate of her prophecy. Even though this is book 3 in the series I had no qualms adjusting to the story and did not feel lost or without background.
Aladdin is one of my favorite Disney movies and Inherent fate starts off with Crisanta trapped in the Genie’s lamp. The plot goes farther mixing fairy tales and legends into unique and easy to follow realms. This may be one of the larger world buildings I have seen and for Culbertson to leave no confusion was immaculately done. I will admit that there is a lot of information and backstory and while it does a great job of making sure the reader is not lost it can be repetitive at times.
The theme focuses a lot on self-reflection and growth. In a world where everyone struggles to find their inner strength and decipher the enigma of who we are it’s nice to see a series that helps unravel some of these growing pains for younger readers. For Crisanta and her friends it becomes a struggle between destined fate and personal choice waring with each other. Not wanting to be tied to a prophecy and wanting to be the maker of your own future is a strong and relatable premise for readers of all ages. Made me rethink my own life choices at one point.
Though geared toward a younger audience, I can see myself cuddling up with book after book as Crisanta and her friends take on the challenges they face and grow closer together. I do think that everyone should start with the first novel to get the full enjoyment of these twists on princesses, princes and fairy tales. I’d highly recommend this to lovers of fairy tales and especially younger readers coming into their own.
I want to thank the author for providing a copy of her novel for an honest and unbiased review. All thoughts are solely my own.
I really love Crisanta Knight and think she's a great character but far too hard on herself. It feels like the whole defining feature thing makes the characters a bit one dimensional and the others, apart from Daniel, seem like they can never do any wrong. It was great reading about how all the fairy tales on Earth came about, as if they were distortions of real adventures in Book. Can't wait for the next in the series!
I love this series! The author page says that she is "passionate about writing books that will speak to young girls and their potential." I think she nails it with these books. But I also think that boys will enjoy the stories as well. The main character is Crisanta, but her friends who join her on the journey are male and female. There are battle scenes with sword fights, flying horses, dragons, villains and more. I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
“My life meant what everyone else’s did—a chance to live it. A chance to make choices, and forge a path, and work toward whoever you wanted to be in this world.”
The third instalment continues readers’ enjoyment and Crisa’s journey, starting in the magic lamp. With the gap between Crisa and Daniel bridged, the two of them go on to find the third ingredient to break the Indexland’s In and Out spell and find their friends crossing realms and kingdoms, while handling the delicate relationship between them. Will Crisa be able to find the author and solve the whatever crisis that is brewing inside her?
The enthralling sequel of the Crisanta Knight series impresses me as much as I enjoy it entirely. I am glad that Crisa finally solves the first part of her puzzle of who she is, or rather, who she is going to be. Intertwined with numerous inspirations from famous fairytales, Crisa’s journey of self-discovery sews her soul into the story. The author’s wisdom is nicely conveyed through different themes and messages. The story, characters, messages, etc. just make readers feel grossly invested in the story.
I am riveted by the new fairy tales added to the stories from Pied Piper, Goldilocks (with surprise), Aladdin’s lamp, Cave of Mysteries, Snow White’s corset, and so on. I am also delighted that Crisa and Daniel go to Germany and run into a number of unexpected events. Yunru catches my eye most because of Crisa's special note to her. I am excited to see how things are going to evolve next time.
I am delighted by the character development and Crisa is back stronger than ever. I am equally inspired by her lessons and realisations and I believe the authors’ words are certainly encouraging. Evidently there are many quotes to be highlighted many times and to be learnt by heart by readers. The author surely knows how to deliver her message well. I cannot praise that any more than I have. Besides, I am glad that she has sealed the wound between her and friends. I believe after all that has happened, having her friends always on her back seems like more reassuring.
One of my biggest appeals in the story is the unrelenting conflicts. All good readers know that conflicts are one of the key elements of a great story. And the author has checked that box. Having solved one internal conflict adds more external conflicts in the story, heightening Crisa and her friends’ stakes and brewing the tension for later story arcs. The suspense keeps the readers on the edge of their seat.
In addition, the author has also aced the department of character portrayal. None of the recurring characters are one dimensional. They are complex, realistic, multi-dimensional and endearing with motives. Crisa is initially insecure and grows to be more confident. She is fully flawed, but her weaknesses let her strengths shine. Sassy, rebellious, distrustful (at times) and unconventional, Crisa knows when to be resourceful, brave, strong and loyal. She makes readers feel relatable by her flaws and insecurities and invested in the story with her charisma. Same to SJ, Blue, Jason and Daniel, which each have their own unique character traits and complexities that draw us into the story and to them. The protagonists and major characters are fully fledged characters that we can always learn from and look up to, which is one of the best aspects of the story.
On the other hand, the depiction of the antagonists are equally as interesting. Arian is heartless and vile, but he has a motive of eliminating Crisa and claiming the reward from his queen, as well as Mauvrey. Nadia aims to take over Book and level antagonists’ positions in the society. She is resourceful, calculating and yes, insane, but no matter how villainous she is, you can still see through that she wants to fight for Alderon’s rights. Very “noble”, isn’t it? Except the fact that she uses the wrong methods. After all, villains have a reason to be evil and perhaps in their eyes, they are the “heroes” of their own story. Apart from that, the Godmother Supreme and Lady Angue also earn their places in my “antagonists depiction” paragraph. Although they are not downright evil, their love of order is unreasonable to a point that stems the conflicts against Crisa and her friends. They are just annoyingly authoritative, which to an extent is understandable given that they manage the realm and a school respectively. The characters against Crisa and her friends heighten the tension in the story.
I think this book, and overall the series, is especially strong at making connections with readers and bringing out the messages and themes. These are the essential aspects I look forward to and expect from a story. The author undeniably excelled again. Through actions, scenes, dialogues and monologues, the author can always get the message across, encouraging the readers. Every time I read the book, I feel motivated and energised. Magic and virtues are flowing in this book. It is ever so captivating and inspiring that makes readers fall in love with it.
This book is definitely a must-read and I will certainly persuade everyone to read it. It is recommended to all age groups and especially fantasy lovers, as I believe the Crisanta Knight series is the most amazing, awe-inspiring fantasy ever written. It is never cliché or mundane. Fans of Harry Potter and the School and Good and Evil will be thoroughly entertained by this series. Moreover, I think this series somehow acts as a self-help book as Crisa’s personal journey would strike a chord with many people and solve their insecurities. As the author said, “whether you’re eight or eighty you can count on a magical fun ride from beginning to end”. You are going to love the series.
To conclude, I passionately recommend the Crisanta Knight series to all. The story is unique, enthralling and refreshing. I sincerely hope everyone can enjoy and love this book as much as I do. I would like to thank the author for writing such an amazing book and unveiling Crisa’s journey with us. The series is awesome.
“It is the answer to this question that defines us more than anything else, because this is what defines our choices. And that is what a person is truly molded by in the end. Their choices”.
I didn't read the first two books in this series but I didn't feel as if I was missing anything. It was a funny lighthearted action adventure fantasy book.
In the enchanted realm of Book, wherein resides Crisanta, daughter of famed Cinderella, taking charge of one's character is not encouraged. That is meant to be left to fairy godmothers and of course, the Author. But to a young girl who wishes to control her own destiny, that simply won't do. Crisanta has attended Lady Agnue's School for Princesses & Other Female Protagonists, so she is fully aware of what's expected of her, but being demure and subservient really isn't her thing. Prophecies be damned, Crisanta won't let things go down without a fight.
Crisanta Knight, Inherent Fate, by Geanna Culbertson, is an entirely unique and wonderfully creative tale of princes, princesses and other leading characters in an otherworldly fairytale realm. Unlike any fairytale you may have encountered, this book is full of page-turning surprises. From the entertaining and informative prologue, which sets things up nicely even for those who have not read the earlier Crisanta books, this novel draws readers into its delightfully enchanting story. With strong character development, a plot that sears, and a tenacious female protagonist, this book is sure to become a favorite with readers of all ages. Inherent Fate reads well enough as a stand-alone, but we can't imagine why anyone would deprive themselves of starting at the beginning with the first book in this highly engaging series. - Recommended for home and school libraries, Crisanta Knight, Inherent Fate has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.
This third installment of the Crisanta Knight series keeps the adventures coming, expanding the universe farther and mixing new fairy tale elements into this brewing storm of a story. Inherent Fate is an exciting bookend to the first story arc, but Crisa’s story is still far from over!
Given where we left off in Book 2, I couldn’t wait to get back to Crisa and Daniel. The two of them are like a bottle of Coca-Cola and Mentos: an explosive, sky-high fountain of fun. I love how Crisa continues to steadily grow as a character, always learning the hard way (and the most entertaining way) from her experiences. I also eagerly ate up all the little details sprinkled throughout the book about Daniel’s mysterious past. We’re getting lots of great little nuggets and I can’t wait to see them all come together.
Book by book, the storyline is evolving. I’m riveted to the mysteries it’s slowly revealing. It’s simultaneously a world you want to live in, but also one you really want to expose all the secrets of… and those secrets go a long way down the rabbit hole. Altogether it’s really an enthralling examination of destiny & fate vs. our own choices and how each affects the other. True to each book so far, this next installment of the Crisanta Knight series satisfies my most burning questions but quickly replaces those questions with new intrigues. Geanna leaves you itching for the next volume. June 2018 can’t come soon enough!
A really fun, adventurous, atmospheric book trip into the kingdom of Alderon and the magical world of fairy tale protagonists that we have all read about before. If you are a fan of the TV show, "Once Upon a Time" you will surely love the Crisanta Knight series. Kids will love it, as well as adults. I sure did! You can jump in at any of the books first, since each one gives you a synopsis of what all has happened thus far, but I highly recommend you start at the beginning with Book 1, Protagonist Bound. A little bit of book magic and the nostalgia that comes with it when referencing all the fairy tale superstars we have all read about before (Cristanta is the daughter of Cinderella), this book is lighthearted, satisfying, intriguing, and surprisingly relatable. It has a level balance of fantasy and realism, and isn't too scary or mature for younger, middle grade readers. It's full of amazing characters and the book feels like you are watching an exciting movie in your head. This is third installment in the series and the 6th book comes out 11/1/19, "The Lost King". Book #1- Protagonist Bound Book#2- The Severance Game Book#3- Inherent Fate Book#4- The Liar, The Witch, & The Wormhole Book#5- To Death and Back Book#6- The Lost King (11/1/19) With Christmas right around the corner, this would make an amazing gift set for the YA reader in your life!
I’m absolutely hooked on this series. The adventures keep getting more exciting and the action non stop. I mean.. it’s like watching a movie marathon or worse, a tv series. The kind you can keep going till you forget about sleep.
Book 3 of this series was jammed with moral stories on character and self-acceptance. Seeing as it is a Middle Grade book, I am beginning to have a high regard for this series. Teaching kids about right moral values through novels is an effective tool. But of course, we need to first cultivate the love for reading.
As an adult, I was very much inspired myself with what was related in the story. I begin to question myself if I had the same values that are so important in life. Hence, I would totally recommend this series to even adults because hey, we need this.
Similarly to the previous two books, the plot and character development were perfectly on point. The writing was easy and suspenseful for readers to be hooked.
And if I haven’t said it enough, I’m a sucker for retellings where the princess turns out to be a heroine. Like.. please give me more!
Thank you so much to the author for introducing me to this series. I am very excited to read the next installment.
Crisanta and Daniel have become separated from the rest of the group while continuing their quest to confront The Author. During the separation they get stuck in Aladdin's lamp, have a show down with Goldilocks, and narrowly escape the Pied Piper's tune. They finally make it to the Valley of Strife and enter the Cave of Mysteries to locate the final ingredient they need to break the In & Out Spell and get to The Author.
Many treacherous and heated battles later, the friends find their way back to each other and finally come to the end of their journey. BUT is this really the end or the beginning of something more?
I flew through this story as it's just too easy to get lost and forget everything around me once I turn over the first page. I really enjoyed the growth Crisanta and Daniel both experience as they make their way back to their friends. It's nice to see how they both come to terms with who they are, what their fates will (or won't be), and learn to trust in themselves and each other.
This series is starting to get even more interesting as the secrets revealed in this story can only lead to more chaos and fun!
Thank you again Geanna Culbertson for sending me a copy of this book!!
I won’t say too much about this book because it is the third in the series but if you would like to know the gist of it you can go to one of my previous posts to read about this series (selfless plug).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed this book. The adventures that Crisanta goes on with Daniel are page turning. The character growth in this book is played out very well. The one thing that is stopping me from giving this 5 stars is that this is the first book of the series that I have read. I didn’t read books 1 and 2 so some of the things that are referenced, I didn’t know why. You can read this series from any spot in the series but I would recommend starting from the beginning so that you can go on Crisanta’s journey from the beginning and truely understand how she got to where she is now.
Overall, I enjoyed this very much and I highly recommend this series.
This book was full of adventure and really inspiring. I am not doing to give a detailed review on this book as it is part of a series and I don't want to spoil the previous books for you. In saying that I have only read book number 1. This book is a direct continuation from the cliffhanger from book number 2. Therefore I would recommend reading the previous books to get an insight into the characters motivates and an understanding of the land. There is a lot going on. The pace is a lot better in this book. I found it very captivating and there is a lot of action and adventure. It will definitely keep you on your toes. There is also a very strong theme of friendship is this book which I really enjoyed.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who likes ya/fantasy.
The third book in the Crisanta Knight series follows Crisa and her friends as they finally discover the key to their destiny is not at all what they thought. The plot development in this book sets up a greater threat to their world and the character development is praiseworthy as well! Answers are revealed while so much more is at stake for everyone. Again, I loved the retelling of fairytales and how the books seamlessly connect with slight foreshadowing of the future. 100% recommend!
Book 3 giving me all the feels! First it's so fun to finally see them learn more about the Author and get some questions answered. Second, introducing Crisa's magic powers!!! I love the added tension from the threat of Pure Magic Disease. And third, it's Crisa and Daniel finally having to start accepting each other and start a beautiful friendship. (I will go down with this ship) All around a great book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
THE CHEMISTRY IS UNMATCHED! When I tell you I rooted for two people more than anything even if it was platonic love, assume I'm talking about Daniel and Crisa. Yes, there is plenty of potential for a different path these two could take but for once, I was satisfied with the existing relationship they have. I really loved this book. The drama! The plot twists! The magic! It's 100% a book I would read over and over. In fact, this whole series I would read over and over.
Best book of the series so far. Good balance between fantasy and realistic struggle for main character. Feisty girl and pals work to learn who they are and to make things better for others and themselves.
I really love this series.This book had adventure,fairy tales and it was relatable.Crisanta is awesome protagonist and I love her.All her friends are unique and courageous.It was captivating and I look forward to read the next book.
A great series about identifying yourself and appreciating your strengths and weaknesses. Perfect for most ages. Lots of fun characters, lands, magic and more!
"Piercing the sky at top speed was a silvery dragon. he beat his wings mightily, cutting through the clouds. Despite his speed and distance, I could see the golden, glowing eyes set into his skull. They were bright and fiery like miniature suns."
The main character's name is Crisanta and she is the daughter of Cinderella and Prince Charming. She hates being labeled a princess and want's to fight to fend for herself and fight her own destiny. Destiny, to become some princess married to some prince and live happily ever after, or maybe not?
This was my first book in the Crisanta Knight series written by Geanna Culbertson. You can read any of the books outside of the order. I definitely felt like I understood 97% of the book and had at times wish I'd known some more backstory from the first two. Aside from that, It was pretty epic as far as story-lines go.
At times I found my mind wandering here and there because the length of the book was a bit longer for my tastes. I got annoyed in the beginning with the constant banter between our main character and another vital character. Mainly I wanted to smoosh their heads together and yell "be done." As the story progressed though that bit calmed down.
Something I really loved about this book was the fact that the author was able to add so many classic fairy-tale stories into one book and design them to fit so perfectly. In this book you get Aladdin, the Pied Piper, and some of the story of Cinderella's evil stepmother. Honestly *Chef's kiss* I also, really enjoyed many of the chapter headings. They came with great names and I laughed at quite a few of them. I really loved the magic system in Inherent Fate. It is quite large and the world building is wonderful in fact I think it is exceptional.
I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for a high fantasy world with a twist on classic fairytales. You won't regret it
In the third installment of the Cristanta Knight series we are reminded in the prologue what a protagonist is, and the troubles our heroine had gotten herself into previously. I would completely recommend reading books one and two before starting the third, to have an understanding of the characters, their motives and famous fairytale siblings.
We jump straight back in where we left off with Crisa trapped in a Genie bottle with Daniel; trying to find a way out. This leads them straight back to Crisa's fairy godmother, Debbie, followed by the evil ( TBC!) godmother supreme. Once this hurdle is navigated the twosome land in the desert, to find the rest of the crew ( SJ, Blue & Jason). After negotiating Aladdins cave they finally reunite with the rest of the gang and after a few more scrapes end up back at school - with a pet dragon.
I enjoy the series because its a light hearted spin on the fairytale world, with nods to the current ( mark two mirror is their version of a mobile phone) however this book felt more drawn out than the previous two - so much happens in the first half, with just Crisa and Daniel as the main characters, but when they rejoin SJ, Blue and Jason the story seems to take a long time for not alot to happen.
This had taken me weeks before I was able to finish it. I was struggling to read the book since I am a little bit confused and struggling with all “Antagonist” and “Protagonist” thing. But I did still enjoyed it at some time. The book is packed with adventure, and I honestly did not expect it to be a middle grade school kind of read. I am delighted that the book has a mixture of fairytale theme.
The characters are all well written. There is a lesson of friendship and the eagerness to be different from what people expect you to be. I just bothered that Crisanta wants to always prove herself and it makes me a little bit annoyed.
Overall, it was a good book. Quite long but still a nice read. Would definitely have my niece read this book!
Lots of big reveals in this one - more importantly Crisanta starts learning to use her magic which does have consequences and completely changes the game. I feel like this an in-between book though as it gives more information and an intermission as Crisanta & Co. return to school....