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Unfinished Fairy Tales #2
Il était deux fois
Sept ans se sont écoulés depuis que Kat a quitté Athelia. Grâce à l’intervention de la petite fille du roi gobelin, le livre est rouvert et Kat est renvoyée dans le Monde des Contes. En apprenant qu’on lui offre une seconde chance, Edward est déterminé à ne pas la laisser partir cette fois. Ses chances de réussite, toutefois, semblent nulles. Kat ne se souvient en rien de leur passé, elle déteste la vie à la cour et a hâte de retourner dans le monde moderne. Sans oublier le prix à payer pour avoir trafiqué le livre une nouvelle fois...
409 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2018
342 people are currently reading
842 people want to read
About the author
Aya Ling
14 books440 followersAya is from Taiwan, where she struggles daily to contain her obsession with mouthwatering and unhealthy foods. Often she will devour a good book instead. Her favorite books include martial arts romances, fairy tale retellings, high fantasy, cozy mysteries, and manga.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
February 26, 2021
After reading and loving the first book in the series, I had high expectations from this but was left cold. I just can't believe how much the writing changed as if it was written by a completely different person. Even though it was almost the same story as the first one, the writing felt off. Same as that Kat felt like a completely different person. I know she doesn't have her memories and seven years have passed but still she felt like a completely new character. She was just not funny or witty but straight up annoying.
The whole story even though repeated, felt just very disconnected or rather I was very disconnected from the whole story as well as all the characters. I just couldn't believe the way I was let down. I hope the next in the series is better.
2 stars
The whole story even though repeated, felt just very disconnected or rather I was very disconnected from the whole story as well as all the characters. I just couldn't believe the way I was let down. I hope the next in the series is better.
2 stars
March 31, 2019
DID I JUST READ THE SAME BOOK TWICE?
The title of the book might be 'Twice Upon A Time', but I didn't expect that it would mean that the story had to basically repeat itself...
It has been 7 years since Kat and Edward broke the curse and Kat returned to the real world. She has no memory of what happened, but others have not forgotten their love story. The goblin princess, Pippi, is so in live with their romance, that she orchestrates for Kat to return to Athelia. However, her return is not the happy, romantic occasion it was supposed to be. Kat has forgotten Edward and Athalia and it seems she has problems adjusting to the new reality.
THE GOOD STUFF
Kat and Edward: I absolutely loved Kat and Edward in the first book and they are still great characters. They have such a sweet relationship. I am quite invested in their story now and even though this book was not the best, I still want to read the next in the series just to get some closure for these two.
THE NOT SO GOOD STUFF
Repeat: In the first book, Kat entered Story World, not knowing how she got there or where she was. She had 'memory loss', tried to keep from falling in love with Edward and fought to go back home to her family. ALL of that was repeated in this book. Really, it made it seem like I was basically just reading the same book all over again...
Inconsistent world: From the first book to the second I felt like there were som inconsistencies. For instance, in the first book I remember Kat telling Edward about her world and how there were cameras, something he didn't know about. Still, in this book, suddenly there are cameras in Athelia! And the train, that Kat and Edward travel on in this book, was never mentioned in the first book, where Kat and Poppy travelled by coach.
Out of place: In this book, Kat and Edward go on a date at a restaurant. To be honest, it felt EXTREMELY out of place, because this just felt like a modern day restaurant with red-and-white checkered table cloth and waitresses. I read that scene and could only think 'where the hell did this come from?'
Lacking drive: There really was nothing in this story and drove it forward, there was hardly anything that made me want to turn the next page (aside from Kat and Eddie), because nothing of much importance happened, there seemed to be no point with this story, no climax that we were working towards.
The ending: Throughout the story it becomes obvious that something is wrong with Kat. What it is revealed in the end what it is, my reaction was, "WTF, this is riddiculous!" It was, sorry to say, extremely stupid and just plain weird.
Still, I am now invested in Kat and Edward's story, I want them to have their happy ending, so I will keep on reading this series.
FOLLOW MY BLOG FOR MORE BOOK GOODNESS
The title of the book might be 'Twice Upon A Time', but I didn't expect that it would mean that the story had to basically repeat itself...
It has been 7 years since Kat and Edward broke the curse and Kat returned to the real world. She has no memory of what happened, but others have not forgotten their love story. The goblin princess, Pippi, is so in live with their romance, that she orchestrates for Kat to return to Athelia. However, her return is not the happy, romantic occasion it was supposed to be. Kat has forgotten Edward and Athalia and it seems she has problems adjusting to the new reality.
THE GOOD STUFF
Kat and Edward: I absolutely loved Kat and Edward in the first book and they are still great characters. They have such a sweet relationship. I am quite invested in their story now and even though this book was not the best, I still want to read the next in the series just to get some closure for these two.
THE NOT SO GOOD STUFF
Repeat: In the first book, Kat entered Story World, not knowing how she got there or where she was. She had 'memory loss', tried to keep from falling in love with Edward and fought to go back home to her family. ALL of that was repeated in this book. Really, it made it seem like I was basically just reading the same book all over again...
Inconsistent world: From the first book to the second I felt like there were som inconsistencies. For instance, in the first book I remember Kat telling Edward about her world and how there were cameras, something he didn't know about. Still, in this book, suddenly there are cameras in Athelia! And the train, that Kat and Edward travel on in this book, was never mentioned in the first book, where Kat and Poppy travelled by coach.
Out of place: In this book, Kat and Edward go on a date at a restaurant. To be honest, it felt EXTREMELY out of place, because this just felt like a modern day restaurant with red-and-white checkered table cloth and waitresses. I read that scene and could only think 'where the hell did this come from?'
Lacking drive: There really was nothing in this story and drove it forward, there was hardly anything that made me want to turn the next page (aside from Kat and Eddie), because nothing of much importance happened, there seemed to be no point with this story, no climax that we were working towards.
The ending: Throughout the story it becomes obvious that something is wrong with Kat. What it is revealed in the end what it is, my reaction was, "WTF, this is riddiculous!" It was, sorry to say, extremely stupid and just plain weird.
Still, I am now invested in Kat and Edward's story, I want them to have their happy ending, so I will keep on reading this series.
FOLLOW MY BLOG FOR MORE BOOK GOODNESS
May 24, 2017
Doctor: How can I help you???
Me: *opens book*
Me: *cries*
Me: *points*
Me: yo fix this ending because no
Me: *opens book*
Me: *cries*
Me: *points*
Me: yo fix this ending because no
February 7, 2017
After much consideration. 3 stars.
I wish the story started out a little differently. It feels like I'm reading the Ugly Stepsister once again, owing to the fact that Kat lost her memory and being transferred back to Athelia. Hence everything in Athelia is somewhat new to her, when it is not so much to the readers. The first half of the book is all about Kat trying to re-adjust with the rules of the court. Which is a waste of time. We've been through this in the first book! I ended up skipping a whole chunk of pages because I already know who is who and what is what.
I sort of wishes the story takes place in our world instead of in Athelia. Instead of having Kat down in Athelia, why dont we have Edward in America instead? Because all those court rules and life of a prince and a princess is really kind of overwhelming. Or maybe it's just me.
Hey! I still love Kat and Edward nevertheless.
I wish the story started out a little differently. It feels like I'm reading the Ugly Stepsister once again, owing to the fact that Kat lost her memory and being transferred back to Athelia. Hence everything in Athelia is somewhat new to her, when it is not so much to the readers. The first half of the book is all about Kat trying to re-adjust with the rules of the court. Which is a waste of time. We've been through this in the first book! I ended up skipping a whole chunk of pages because I already know who is who and what is what.
I sort of wishes the story takes place in our world instead of in Athelia. Instead of having Kat down in Athelia, why dont we have Edward in America instead? Because all those court rules and life of a prince and a princess is really kind of overwhelming. Or maybe it's just me.
Hey! I still love Kat and Edward nevertheless.
Want to read
October 7, 2016I. NEED. THIS.
February 5, 2017
Thanks again to Aya for letting me beta read the first draft of Twice Upon a Time!
Twice Upon a Time takes place 7 years from where we left off, with Kat back in the real world and no memories of the events of the first book. She is now a 24 year old college graduate who is blissfully unaware of her time with Edward in Athelia. That all changes when a Pippi, a young goblin, decides to interfere by making a deal with her uncle.
"Repeat after me: I, Princess Pippi, daughter of King Barthelius, will retrieve the emerald ring for Borg the Invincible. In return for your efforts, I, Borg the invincible, swear to transport Katherine Wilson to Athelia, and also to revert Athelia to the exact moment when Prince Edward's wedding takes place, in order for Katherine Wilson to resume her relationship with him without further complications. There, are you satisfied?"
Kat finds herself back in Athelia, but does not have any memory of her previous visit. She is thrust into life as Princess of Athelia, the newly married wife of Prince Edward. Along with trying to get her memories back, Kat also continues to try to improve life in Athelia by implementing a minimum wage, maximum work hours in a day, and required education for children. Like in the first book, this isn't without obstacle. After all, Kat is trying to implement modern ways into a fairytale kingdom. Most of the things she says is unheard of.
"The owners have to pay for health insurance and shoulder part of the expense for appointment inspectors. You know, there have to be inspectors to make sure the factory owners are abiding by the new law. What McVean did was certainly unethical, but there is no law that forbids him to do so. You don't even have a minimum wage in this country?"
One of my favorite parts of this book (and the first book) is the fact that Kat is not a typical fairytale princess. In fact, looks wise, she is far from beauty queen material. But Edward,the stereotypical drop dead gorgeous prince, is attracted to her because of her fiery personality and her "otherworldly ideas".
"My position as the crown prince, I frankly admit, makes it unlikely for any unattached woman to reject me. But you are different. You see Athelia as undeveloped, oppressive, and even brutal. You didn't care that I was royal. No matter how I tried to get your attention, your priority remained with your family."
I highly doubt that Edward would have fallen in love with the real Katriona. If I had inhabited Elle's body, he would be attracted to Elle.
Edward, the crown prince who is described as being the most attractive man that Kat has ever met, falls in love with an ordinary girl because of her kind heart and her need to make a difference in Athelia. Not because of her looks. Kat educates Edward on how backwards Athelia truly is, and how things need to change. He diligently works along with her to make life better for people, namely children, in poverty. Could he be any more perfect?
"Through your interview, you have made the public aware of the inhumane suffering of child workers. Before I met you, I believed that change must be gradual, and drastic action cannot produce satisfactory results. But your efforts have taught me that some risks are worth taking."
'Kat, while you may believe that you did not successfully alleviate the children's suffering, remember that the eight-hour act was never meant to be an end, but only a step toward our final goal-to completely eliminate child labor."
Along with an independent and spirited main character, Twice Upon a Time has beautiful world building. Athelia is a beautiful kingdom straight out of a fairy tale storybook. And of course, the romance is just as swoon worthy as it was in the first book.
"I promise you I am not going to let you go. Even if it means that I have to abdicate, I will not give you up. Never."
If you loved the Ugly Stepsister, you will love this sequel because it has all the elements from the first book that made it so great.
Twice Upon a Time takes place 7 years from where we left off, with Kat back in the real world and no memories of the events of the first book. She is now a 24 year old college graduate who is blissfully unaware of her time with Edward in Athelia. That all changes when a Pippi, a young goblin, decides to interfere by making a deal with her uncle.
"Repeat after me: I, Princess Pippi, daughter of King Barthelius, will retrieve the emerald ring for Borg the Invincible. In return for your efforts, I, Borg the invincible, swear to transport Katherine Wilson to Athelia, and also to revert Athelia to the exact moment when Prince Edward's wedding takes place, in order for Katherine Wilson to resume her relationship with him without further complications. There, are you satisfied?"
Kat finds herself back in Athelia, but does not have any memory of her previous visit. She is thrust into life as Princess of Athelia, the newly married wife of Prince Edward. Along with trying to get her memories back, Kat also continues to try to improve life in Athelia by implementing a minimum wage, maximum work hours in a day, and required education for children. Like in the first book, this isn't without obstacle. After all, Kat is trying to implement modern ways into a fairytale kingdom. Most of the things she says is unheard of.
"The owners have to pay for health insurance and shoulder part of the expense for appointment inspectors. You know, there have to be inspectors to make sure the factory owners are abiding by the new law. What McVean did was certainly unethical, but there is no law that forbids him to do so. You don't even have a minimum wage in this country?"
One of my favorite parts of this book (and the first book) is the fact that Kat is not a typical fairytale princess. In fact, looks wise, she is far from beauty queen material. But Edward,the stereotypical drop dead gorgeous prince, is attracted to her because of her fiery personality and her "otherworldly ideas".
"My position as the crown prince, I frankly admit, makes it unlikely for any unattached woman to reject me. But you are different. You see Athelia as undeveloped, oppressive, and even brutal. You didn't care that I was royal. No matter how I tried to get your attention, your priority remained with your family."
I highly doubt that Edward would have fallen in love with the real Katriona. If I had inhabited Elle's body, he would be attracted to Elle.
Edward, the crown prince who is described as being the most attractive man that Kat has ever met, falls in love with an ordinary girl because of her kind heart and her need to make a difference in Athelia. Not because of her looks. Kat educates Edward on how backwards Athelia truly is, and how things need to change. He diligently works along with her to make life better for people, namely children, in poverty. Could he be any more perfect?
"Through your interview, you have made the public aware of the inhumane suffering of child workers. Before I met you, I believed that change must be gradual, and drastic action cannot produce satisfactory results. But your efforts have taught me that some risks are worth taking."
'Kat, while you may believe that you did not successfully alleviate the children's suffering, remember that the eight-hour act was never meant to be an end, but only a step toward our final goal-to completely eliminate child labor."
Along with an independent and spirited main character, Twice Upon a Time has beautiful world building. Athelia is a beautiful kingdom straight out of a fairy tale storybook. And of course, the romance is just as swoon worthy as it was in the first book.
"I promise you I am not going to let you go. Even if it means that I have to abdicate, I will not give you up. Never."
If you loved the Ugly Stepsister, you will love this sequel because it has all the elements from the first book that made it so great.
March 26, 2018
I might need to rant a little bit...
Twice Upon a Time did not quite charm me as the first book of the series. There's probably a number of reasons for that.
For one, I walked into this story for the second time prepared to criticize it. Don't take me wrong, it's not because I disliked the first book or because I expected this one to disappoint me. It was more like the first book's setting and world-building was not constructed thoroughly. And, so, I plunged into this story with my weapons drawn, ready to write down all the little things that bothered me about the story. Half way through the book, though, I forgot to pay attention to all these details and ended up enjoying Kat and Edward's story once more.
I wrote down some of my thoughts as I read the story:
1. I was immensely annoyed by Kat's attitude in the beginning of the story. Her complaints or her thoughts were repetitive. She sounded too much like 17-year old Kat.
2. The world of Athelia in the first book wasn't as clear as the author painted it in this book. Kat and Edward travel by train to their honeymoon destination. For a moment there I was like "what the heck is going on? They never mentioned trains in the last book!" I was honestly wondering whether more time had passed in Athelia, because it almost seemed like it had changed since Kat left. It wasn't until this point that I realized this story is set during the industrial revolution era. However, though the setting wasn't as clear in the last book, I am glad that the author managed to develop it further in the second book.
3. I was furious at Kat for how she behaved towards Edward. Ungrateful little grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
I was angry, okay.
4. Some scenes in the book were just poorly written or they seemed to happen out of the blue. For example, the scene were Kat and Edward are invited to Lillie's engagement party. Then, that same day they attend the party. What the heck?! That was unrealistic. What sort of aristocrat sends a last minute invitation to the princess and prince of Athelia? It's an insult. Come on!
5. All in all, I still think the author took a lot of liberties regarding the etiquette and language of the era. I can tolerate modern slang and manners from the girl who comes from the modern world, but not from the people of Athelia. If she is going for the industrial-revolution-era setting then there's a lot of things that need to be double-checked. Otherwise, the setting and story do not progress smoothly. It's because of this blurred-setting-situation that I felt that there was a bit of a gap between Athelia in the first book and Athelia in the 2nd book. It doesn't feel cohesive. And, that bothers me.
In the end, I honestly overlooked a lot of details because I wanted to enjoy the rest of the story. I admit that the world was further developed in this book and Kat grew alongside Edward's character.
By the end of the book, I could almost sense that Kat's tone as character sounds more mature. I was also glad she stopped complaining. Goodness. She spent about the first third of the book annoying the crap out of me.
Anyhow, I would still recommend my friends to read the 2nd book, because it is enjoyable. It also didn't fall into the 2nd-book-in-a-series syndrome in which the story drags out unnecessarily. It was a good 2nd book, actually. Hopefully, the third one won't disappoint.
Twice Upon a Time did not quite charm me as the first book of the series. There's probably a number of reasons for that.
For one, I walked into this story for the second time prepared to criticize it. Don't take me wrong, it's not because I disliked the first book or because I expected this one to disappoint me. It was more like the first book's setting and world-building was not constructed thoroughly. And, so, I plunged into this story with my weapons drawn, ready to write down all the little things that bothered me about the story. Half way through the book, though, I forgot to pay attention to all these details and ended up enjoying Kat and Edward's story once more.
I wrote down some of my thoughts as I read the story:
1. I was immensely annoyed by Kat's attitude in the beginning of the story. Her complaints or her thoughts were repetitive. She sounded too much like 17-year old Kat.
2. The world of Athelia in the first book wasn't as clear as the author painted it in this book. Kat and Edward travel by train to their honeymoon destination. For a moment there I was like "what the heck is going on? They never mentioned trains in the last book!" I was honestly wondering whether more time had passed in Athelia, because it almost seemed like it had changed since Kat left. It wasn't until this point that I realized this story is set during the industrial revolution era. However, though the setting wasn't as clear in the last book, I am glad that the author managed to develop it further in the second book.
3. I was furious at Kat for how she behaved towards Edward. Ungrateful little grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.
I was angry, okay.
4. Some scenes in the book were just poorly written or they seemed to happen out of the blue. For example, the scene were Kat and Edward are invited to Lillie's engagement party. Then, that same day they attend the party. What the heck?! That was unrealistic. What sort of aristocrat sends a last minute invitation to the princess and prince of Athelia? It's an insult. Come on!
5. All in all, I still think the author took a lot of liberties regarding the etiquette and language of the era. I can tolerate modern slang and manners from the girl who comes from the modern world, but not from the people of Athelia. If she is going for the industrial-revolution-era setting then there's a lot of things that need to be double-checked. Otherwise, the setting and story do not progress smoothly. It's because of this blurred-setting-situation that I felt that there was a bit of a gap between Athelia in the first book and Athelia in the 2nd book. It doesn't feel cohesive. And, that bothers me.
In the end, I honestly overlooked a lot of details because I wanted to enjoy the rest of the story. I admit that the world was further developed in this book and Kat grew alongside Edward's character.
By the end of the book, I could almost sense that Kat's tone as character sounds more mature. I was also glad she stopped complaining. Goodness. She spent about the first third of the book annoying the crap out of me.
Anyhow, I would still recommend my friends to read the 2nd book, because it is enjoyable. It also didn't fall into the 2nd-book-in-a-series syndrome in which the story drags out unnecessarily. It was a good 2nd book, actually. Hopefully, the third one won't disappoint.
December 31, 2016
My full review goes live on my blog June 11th, 2017 HERE: https://escapingrealitybookreviews.wo...
This book is absolutely gorgeous. More self published authors need to follow Aya’s example, because this cover is positively breathtakingly perfect. This is the kind of book that I want to have on my shelf not only because it’s amazing, but also because the cover is just so pretty.
My Review: So I was actually lucky enough to be able to beta read this book in exchange for honest feedback. Honestly, I am SO thrilled that Aya let me be part of her beta reading group because, even though I may not always be the nicest of beta readers, I love getting to see the process of how authors write the books that I love so much. I have always loved Aya’s books. They make me happy.
Characters: I cannot possibly say enough good about these characters. I absolutely adore every single one of them. This is really where Aya’s incredible skill as an author shines through – her characters. They are all complex and thought out with detailed enough sub-plots that she could write spin-off books about each and every one of them if she so chose (man, I hope she does that. How could would it be to have a spin-off story dedicated entirely to Henry and Ella?). I love her characters so much. I know I gush about books and authors all the time, but I promise you, Aya Ling is one of the very best.
Plot: I hate amnesia as the catalyst to a romance. It’s so dumb. It makes me incredibly angry. But… Aya Ling pulled it off. She actually wrote a fairy tale with star-crossed lover amnesia that I enjoyed reading. And I really enjoyed it. It was a page-turner, for sure.
To Sum It Up: Aya Ling is a masterful storyteller who has the ability to make you instantly fall in love with the world and characters that she creates. If you love, or even like, fairy tales, you need to read Aya’s books.
I'm 19, and I HIGHLY recommend this book.
This book is absolutely gorgeous. More self published authors need to follow Aya’s example, because this cover is positively breathtakingly perfect. This is the kind of book that I want to have on my shelf not only because it’s amazing, but also because the cover is just so pretty.
My Review: So I was actually lucky enough to be able to beta read this book in exchange for honest feedback. Honestly, I am SO thrilled that Aya let me be part of her beta reading group because, even though I may not always be the nicest of beta readers, I love getting to see the process of how authors write the books that I love so much. I have always loved Aya’s books. They make me happy.
Characters: I cannot possibly say enough good about these characters. I absolutely adore every single one of them. This is really where Aya’s incredible skill as an author shines through – her characters. They are all complex and thought out with detailed enough sub-plots that she could write spin-off books about each and every one of them if she so chose (man, I hope she does that. How could would it be to have a spin-off story dedicated entirely to Henry and Ella?). I love her characters so much. I know I gush about books and authors all the time, but I promise you, Aya Ling is one of the very best.
Plot: I hate amnesia as the catalyst to a romance. It’s so dumb. It makes me incredibly angry. But… Aya Ling pulled it off. She actually wrote a fairy tale with star-crossed lover amnesia that I enjoyed reading. And I really enjoyed it. It was a page-turner, for sure.
To Sum It Up: Aya Ling is a masterful storyteller who has the ability to make you instantly fall in love with the world and characters that she creates. If you love, or even like, fairy tales, you need to read Aya’s books.
I'm 19, and I HIGHLY recommend this book.
Want to read
April 4, 2017I really like #1, so pretty excited for this one!
March 25, 2020
Recensione sul blog --> https://www.leggereromanticamente.com...
July 21, 2020
Twice Upon a Time is the second book in the Unfinished Fairy Tales series by Aya Ling. As much as I loved the first book and I enjoyed reading about Kat and Edward again, it did feel quite similar to the plot of The Ugly Stepsister. But all things considered, I did like reading the book and continuing their adventure. Please be aware of spoilers in the review below if you haven't read The Ugly Stepsister yet, but also a few spoilers for Twice Upon a Time itself.
At the end of the first book you already notice Kat doesn't remember anything from her time in Athelia, nor having actually met Prince Charming Edward from her book. At the beginning of Twice Upon a Time we get this confirmed and is the book only a distant memory, a story she used to read over and over again. It is nice to get to know Kat a bit better and how her life has changed in the past years, and how unknowingly her character has evolved from her time in Storyland.
The build up of the story however feels too similar to the first book, because of Kat her memory loss. Just like The Ugly Stepsister Kat is reluctend and wants to return home and Edward has to make her fall in love with him all over again. At some point in their relationship Kat no longer works against him and decides she can hopefully mean something for this world, make it a better place for especially children with her knowledge of the modern world. In the end, Kat falls in love with Edward and wishes to stay, but has to return to her own world. It is not that bad, but I would have preffered that something would have been different, perhaps from Edwards view - or a changing perspective. This would also mean we would have gotten to know Edward even better.
The first book was definitly a Cinderella retelling. This book, as a sequel, didn't really follow a fairy tale but I could see similarities with Beauty and the Beast. Funny enough Kat and I realized it at the same time - even though she was more referring to the library at the palace and I to the plot in general. She is held against her will in a different world, mostly in the castle, enjoys reading and spends most of her time at the library. Eventually she gets to know the prince more, besides just seeing him as her captor.
Unlike usual fairy tales, Twice Upon a Time doesn't have a happy ending. With The Ugly Stepsister you could see it as a happy story, as Kat had to return home when the wedding bells rang and the happily ever after was reached. But as she went home, without any memories, this is of course debatable. But in the sequel there is no happiness at the end. Yes, Kat got to share more time with Edward, but most of it causing him pain as she didn't remember a thing and worked against his efforts. The book ends with the Goblins, closing all portals between Kats world and Athelia. Hell no they would not get a real happily ever after after everything they have been through! But I guess we just have to wait for book 3 and 4 in the series.
In the series the book is not on its best, as it felt too much of the same because of the build up and choice of perspective. But all in all, on itself I loved the book and it was an enjoyable read, just like the first book. It was great to pick up where the original story ended, despite Kat grew older (causing a few minor coninuity issues here and there with references I think, but nothing disturbing), having Kat and Edward reunite and getting to know more about Athelia. Especially after Kat got her memory back and their relationship developed, I could hardly put down the book. Can't wait to read Ever After and hopefully the title will do it justice.
Oh and I definitely did NOT fangirl every time Kat fangirled or referred to Outlander. Nope, I didn't! (I so did!)
At the end of the first book you already notice Kat doesn't remember anything from her time in Athelia, nor having actually met Prince Charming Edward from her book. At the beginning of Twice Upon a Time we get this confirmed and is the book only a distant memory, a story she used to read over and over again. It is nice to get to know Kat a bit better and how her life has changed in the past years, and how unknowingly her character has evolved from her time in Storyland.
The build up of the story however feels too similar to the first book, because of Kat her memory loss. Just like The Ugly Stepsister Kat is reluctend and wants to return home and Edward has to make her fall in love with him all over again. At some point in their relationship Kat no longer works against him and decides she can hopefully mean something for this world, make it a better place for especially children with her knowledge of the modern world. In the end, Kat falls in love with Edward and wishes to stay, but has to return to her own world. It is not that bad, but I would have preffered that something would have been different, perhaps from Edwards view - or a changing perspective. This would also mean we would have gotten to know Edward even better.
The first book was definitly a Cinderella retelling. This book, as a sequel, didn't really follow a fairy tale but I could see similarities with Beauty and the Beast. Funny enough Kat and I realized it at the same time - even though she was more referring to the library at the palace and I to the plot in general. She is held against her will in a different world, mostly in the castle, enjoys reading and spends most of her time at the library. Eventually she gets to know the prince more, besides just seeing him as her captor.
Unlike usual fairy tales, Twice Upon a Time doesn't have a happy ending. With The Ugly Stepsister you could see it as a happy story, as Kat had to return home when the wedding bells rang and the happily ever after was reached. But as she went home, without any memories, this is of course debatable. But in the sequel there is no happiness at the end. Yes, Kat got to share more time with Edward, but most of it causing him pain as she didn't remember a thing and worked against his efforts. The book ends with the Goblins, closing all portals between Kats world and Athelia. Hell no they would not get a real happily ever after after everything they have been through! But I guess we just have to wait for book 3 and 4 in the series.
In the series the book is not on its best, as it felt too much of the same because of the build up and choice of perspective. But all in all, on itself I loved the book and it was an enjoyable read, just like the first book. It was great to pick up where the original story ended, despite Kat grew older (causing a few minor coninuity issues here and there with references I think, but nothing disturbing), having Kat and Edward reunite and getting to know more about Athelia. Especially after Kat got her memory back and their relationship developed, I could hardly put down the book. Can't wait to read Ever After and hopefully the title will do it justice.
Oh and I definitely did NOT fangirl every time Kat fangirled or referred to Outlander. Nope, I didn't! (I so did!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2018
What is this? Really? It feels like I’m reading book one all over again, except Kat is way worst. She’s a feminist to the 3rd power. It feels like the story does not progress since Kat has to be reminded about her feeling for the price, constantly.
Kat was annoying in book one, but being a time travel fairytale fan, I kept at it. Now it seems as if Kat has moved past being annoying and straight into unlikeable.
I couldn’t finish. Oh god! I would have never suspected this book would be added to my DNF shelf.
Let me just say this,
Prince. Still as prince-y as ever. More so, he seem much more tender. I would have kept on reading for him alone. But Kat? God! And the feminist aspects of the book, what the hell.
I’m all for girl power but please, write a completely new story. Don’t bring that shit here.
You might say, you are empowering young girls, blah blah blah, but come on, if anyone is reading this it’s because they read Cinderella already.
I sound shrewd. I’m just so tried with all this crap. Everywhere I turn there conserves. SJWs, nitpicking every word. I just wanted to enjoy a fairytale.
Kat was annoying in book one, but being a time travel fairytale fan, I kept at it. Now it seems as if Kat has moved past being annoying and straight into unlikeable.
I couldn’t finish. Oh god! I would have never suspected this book would be added to my DNF shelf.
Let me just say this,
Prince. Still as prince-y as ever. More so, he seem much more tender. I would have kept on reading for him alone. But Kat? God! And the feminist aspects of the book, what the hell.
I’m all for girl power but please, write a completely new story. Don’t bring that shit here.
You might say, you are empowering young girls, blah blah blah, but come on, if anyone is reading this it’s because they read Cinderella already.
I sound shrewd. I’m just so tried with all this crap. Everywhere I turn there conserves. SJWs, nitpicking every word. I just wanted to enjoy a fairytale.
October 26, 2020
First reading
This book is so heart rendering. I love it so much. God knows how much I cried reading it. The author surely knows how to plot. Loved it !!! :)
Highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!!!
Re read one
I was suddenly feeling this deep sense of longing and nostalgia for Kat and Edward
and knew that I just had to re read it. Oh how I loved it so much! Read it with the same fervent love. And finished it with the same desperate heavy heart. Fell in love with it all over again. This book means so much to me. I'm sure I'd soon be re reading it ; after all I ended up re reading it now way sooner that I had anticipated . And at this rate, I bet that that I might have re read it atleast 10 times, if not more, in the ten years to come .
Re read two
I had planned to re-read the first book and leave it at that. But you know how such things work right? Especially when it comes to such enthralling books. I just couldn't not continue and so here I am, re reading this book the third time. And it is still just as heartbreaking and lovely !!
Very highly recommended!!!!
This book is so heart rendering. I love it so much. God knows how much I cried reading it. The author surely knows how to plot. Loved it !!! :)
Highly recommended!!!!!!!!!!!!
Re read one
I was suddenly feeling this deep sense of longing and nostalgia for Kat and Edward
and knew that I just had to re read it. Oh how I loved it so much! Read it with the same fervent love. And finished it with the same desperate heavy heart. Fell in love with it all over again. This book means so much to me. I'm sure I'd soon be re reading it ; after all I ended up re reading it now way sooner that I had anticipated . And at this rate, I bet that that I might have re read it atleast 10 times, if not more, in the ten years to come .
Re read two
I had planned to re-read the first book and leave it at that. But you know how such things work right? Especially when it comes to such enthralling books. I just couldn't not continue and so here I am, re reading this book the third time. And it is still just as heartbreaking and lovely !!
Very highly recommended!!!!
April 1, 2017
I really enjoyed this book when I read it. I liked the character progression and the fact that it wasn't a cut and dry happy ending style book. I felt the author's writing had improved from the first novel and I liked the added twists that came to Kats relationship.
April 1, 2017
A Dream Come True
This book brings everything to the table. It gives a very modern twist to a classic tale. It's AWESOME! I was constantly rooting for the characters, and could hardly put it down!
This book brings everything to the table. It gives a very modern twist to a classic tale. It's AWESOME! I was constantly rooting for the characters, and could hardly put it down!
May 12, 2020
Quando è stata annunciato questo volume non stavo più nella pelle: ho adorato il primo libro (di cui trovate qui la recensione) e la novella intermedia (potete leggere qui quello che penso) e davvero ero curiosissima di scoprire come sarebbe evoluta la storia di Kat.
Tornare nei libri della Ling è come riabbracciare una vecchia amica (e chissà quando potremmo farlo davvero): Kat mi è mancata perché in pochissimo è riuscita a farsi apprezzare dalla sottoscritta e a farmi affezzionare alle sue vicende.
Sono passati 7 anni da quando Kat ha lasciato Athelia, Eddy all'altare e tutto è stato dimenticato: la ragazza non ricorda appunto nulla del tempo passati con Ella, Poppy e il bel principe. Oramai è cresciuta, cambiata, è diventata una giovane donna con dei progetti, un lavoro, un fidanzato e poi all'improvviso tutto cambia; Kat si ritrova catapultata ad Athelia, poche ore dopo il suo matrimonio ma senza memoria e anche spiazata e spaventata dalla situazione (come dale torto?!).
Mi è piaicuta questa svolta: il dover ricordare, il riadattarsi e al contempo essere di nuovo corteggiata (perché Eddie non si arrenderà), è stato dolce e divertente al tempo stesso.
Abbiamo una Kat più matura, più consapevole di se stessa e di ciò che vuole cambiare: le idee di una scuola femminile, la riduzione dell'orario del lavoro minorile, non sono abbastanza per migliorare la situazione delle fasce più fragili e deboli della popolazione e la nostra protagonista si metterà a lavorare, sempre più sodo, per apportare modifiche e miglioramenti.
Questo è uno degli aspetti che più mi aveva colpito nel primo volume e sono felice che non sia stato accantonato perché è davvero un punto originale nel retelling: mi piace pensare che ognuno di noi sarebbe inorridito davanti a tutto ciò e magari, come Kat, avrebbe cercato di fare qualcosa per cambiare lo status quo (forse ho troppa fiducia nel genere umano, ma mi piace comunque pensarlo).
La storia fra Kat e Eddie è sempre molto romantica: il principe farà di tutto per riconquistarla e ha mostrato apsetti nuovi che hanno delineato e fatto apprezzare ancora di più la sua caratterizzazione.
Molto meno presenti Ella e Poppy ed è un peccato perché ognuna per un motivo diverso mi erano piaciute nel ruolo affidatogli: finalmente la prima si è vista riconoscere i suoi bene e le sue terre e sta cercando di far del bene con tutto ciò, mentre la seconda è diventata madre, una mamma amorevole che è felice nel rivedere la sua migliore amica (vi ricordo che Poppy è l'unica a sapere, oltre al principe, la verità sulla provenienza di Kat).
Lo stile è sempre fluido, la lettura scorre leggera, senza intoppi sino alla svolta negli ultimi capitoli e alla sorpresa finale: vi giuro che vorrete avere il terzo volume fra le mani.
Questa serie continua a essere promossa per me: un retelling originale, non banale, con personaggi ben caratterizzati e la voglia di scoprire come si risolverà la situazione.
Tornare nei libri della Ling è come riabbracciare una vecchia amica (e chissà quando potremmo farlo davvero): Kat mi è mancata perché in pochissimo è riuscita a farsi apprezzare dalla sottoscritta e a farmi affezzionare alle sue vicende.
Sono passati 7 anni da quando Kat ha lasciato Athelia, Eddy all'altare e tutto è stato dimenticato: la ragazza non ricorda appunto nulla del tempo passati con Ella, Poppy e il bel principe. Oramai è cresciuta, cambiata, è diventata una giovane donna con dei progetti, un lavoro, un fidanzato e poi all'improvviso tutto cambia; Kat si ritrova catapultata ad Athelia, poche ore dopo il suo matrimonio ma senza memoria e anche spiazata e spaventata dalla situazione (come dale torto?!).
Mi è piaicuta questa svolta: il dover ricordare, il riadattarsi e al contempo essere di nuovo corteggiata (perché Eddie non si arrenderà), è stato dolce e divertente al tempo stesso.
Abbiamo una Kat più matura, più consapevole di se stessa e di ciò che vuole cambiare: le idee di una scuola femminile, la riduzione dell'orario del lavoro minorile, non sono abbastanza per migliorare la situazione delle fasce più fragili e deboli della popolazione e la nostra protagonista si metterà a lavorare, sempre più sodo, per apportare modifiche e miglioramenti.
Questo è uno degli aspetti che più mi aveva colpito nel primo volume e sono felice che non sia stato accantonato perché è davvero un punto originale nel retelling: mi piace pensare che ognuno di noi sarebbe inorridito davanti a tutto ciò e magari, come Kat, avrebbe cercato di fare qualcosa per cambiare lo status quo (forse ho troppa fiducia nel genere umano, ma mi piace comunque pensarlo).
La storia fra Kat e Eddie è sempre molto romantica: il principe farà di tutto per riconquistarla e ha mostrato apsetti nuovi che hanno delineato e fatto apprezzare ancora di più la sua caratterizzazione.
Molto meno presenti Ella e Poppy ed è un peccato perché ognuna per un motivo diverso mi erano piaciute nel ruolo affidatogli: finalmente la prima si è vista riconoscere i suoi bene e le sue terre e sta cercando di far del bene con tutto ciò, mentre la seconda è diventata madre, una mamma amorevole che è felice nel rivedere la sua migliore amica (vi ricordo che Poppy è l'unica a sapere, oltre al principe, la verità sulla provenienza di Kat).
Lo stile è sempre fluido, la lettura scorre leggera, senza intoppi sino alla svolta negli ultimi capitoli e alla sorpresa finale: vi giuro che vorrete avere il terzo volume fra le mani.
Questa serie continua a essere promossa per me: un retelling originale, non banale, con personaggi ben caratterizzati e la voglia di scoprire come si risolverà la situazione.
April 5, 2020
Romance and Fantasy for Cosmopolitan Girls
Ringrazio la Hope Edizioni per la copia Arc di "C'era una volta... o due?" di Aya Ling, secondo volume della serie "Le favole incompiute".
Copertina bellissima anche questa volta, non vedo l'ora di vedere anche le altre.
La storia è ambientata sette anni dopo la fine del primo, ma il tempo è passato solo nel mondo reale: Kat ha ventiquattro anni, lavora in una caffetteria e ha un fidanzato delizioso, Jason. Alla fine del primo libro la protagonista aveva sposato il principe Edward e, avendo completato la storia, era stata riportata nel suo mondo, ma privata di tutti i ricordi legati alla sua avventura da favola.
"Questa è follia. PRINCIPESSA? IO? Mi sveglio all'improvviso e mi ritrovo accidentalmente sposata e, come se non bastasse, principessa? Ridicolo. Bizzarro. Impossibile. Mi sembrerebbe più verosimile scoprire di aver vinto la lotteria."
A causa di un nuovo incantesimo, Kat viene trasportata di nuovo ad Athelia, dove invece il tempo non è passato.
Purtroppo la prima metà del libro mi è risultata un po' lenta. Kat è in un posto che non ricorda, con delle persone in apparenza sconosciute e non fa che lamentarsi di voler tornare a casa. Ma poi la memoria piano piano si risveglia, e con essa i sentimenti per Edward, e allora sarà di nuovo divisa tra la voglia di restare e il pensiero della sua famiglia lontana e che non potrà rivedere. Cosa succederà stavolta, ci sarà un lieto fine? Per saperlo, dovete solo leggere.
"Voglio una vita normale. Voglio tornare a casa."
Lo stile dell'autrice è il tocco di classe di questo libro, il racconto è affidato al punto di vista della protagonista, attraverso i suoi pensieri e le sue reazioni che risultano divertenti, i dialoghi sono frizzanti e sono questi gli ingredienti giusti che ti fanno entrare nella storia, come catturati da un incantesimo.
"Puoi restare per sempre"
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I personaggi sono ben delineati e la storia è coerente, anche se essendo passato molto tempo dalla pubblicazione del primo libro e senza l'ausilio di un sortilegio per aiutare la memoria, è stato molto difficile ricollegarsi subito alla storia precedente.
Detto ciò, il libro mi è piaciuto e voglio sapere cosa succederà nei prossimi episodi.
Consiglio la lettura di questo romanzo a chi ha letto La Cenerentola sbagliata, a chi ama i fantasy e soprattutto i retelling.
Ringrazio la Hope Edizioni per la copia Arc di "C'era una volta... o due?" di Aya Ling, secondo volume della serie "Le favole incompiute".
Copertina bellissima anche questa volta, non vedo l'ora di vedere anche le altre.
La storia è ambientata sette anni dopo la fine del primo, ma il tempo è passato solo nel mondo reale: Kat ha ventiquattro anni, lavora in una caffetteria e ha un fidanzato delizioso, Jason. Alla fine del primo libro la protagonista aveva sposato il principe Edward e, avendo completato la storia, era stata riportata nel suo mondo, ma privata di tutti i ricordi legati alla sua avventura da favola.
"Questa è follia. PRINCIPESSA? IO? Mi sveglio all'improvviso e mi ritrovo accidentalmente sposata e, come se non bastasse, principessa? Ridicolo. Bizzarro. Impossibile. Mi sembrerebbe più verosimile scoprire di aver vinto la lotteria."
A causa di un nuovo incantesimo, Kat viene trasportata di nuovo ad Athelia, dove invece il tempo non è passato.
Purtroppo la prima metà del libro mi è risultata un po' lenta. Kat è in un posto che non ricorda, con delle persone in apparenza sconosciute e non fa che lamentarsi di voler tornare a casa. Ma poi la memoria piano piano si risveglia, e con essa i sentimenti per Edward, e allora sarà di nuovo divisa tra la voglia di restare e il pensiero della sua famiglia lontana e che non potrà rivedere. Cosa succederà stavolta, ci sarà un lieto fine? Per saperlo, dovete solo leggere.
"Voglio una vita normale. Voglio tornare a casa."
Lo stile dell'autrice è il tocco di classe di questo libro, il racconto è affidato al punto di vista della protagonista, attraverso i suoi pensieri e le sue reazioni che risultano divertenti, i dialoghi sono frizzanti e sono questi gli ingredienti giusti che ti fanno entrare nella storia, come catturati da un incantesimo.
"Puoi restare per sempre"
[image error]
I personaggi sono ben delineati e la storia è coerente, anche se essendo passato molto tempo dalla pubblicazione del primo libro e senza l'ausilio di un sortilegio per aiutare la memoria, è stato molto difficile ricollegarsi subito alla storia precedente.
Detto ciò, il libro mi è piaciuto e voglio sapere cosa succederà nei prossimi episodi.
Consiglio la lettura di questo romanzo a chi ha letto La Cenerentola sbagliata, a chi ama i fantasy e soprattutto i retelling.
October 6, 2018
As with the first book, the end is infuriating and the only thing keeping me from rating it lower is that there is this great hope of returning to the world with book 3. If I had to wait until the third book comes out, I would probably go and burn the book, because I simply cannot wait!
Just like before, Kat and Edward are great, I like that she had to fall in love again and he tried hard. The plot twist at the end was something I didn't see coming and I wasn't too happy about it, but it does make the book a lot more exciting and I love that! It does seem a lot like the first book, that's true. There is again the getting-to-know the world, there is again realizing who she likes and hates and what she wants to do with her life. There is a stupid ending that makes you a bit angry. But all in all, it is just so enjoyable to be in that world and I still enjoy this series as one of my guilty pleasures. I simply enjoy this book whole-heartedly and if anybody wants to read a nice fairytale re-telling, start this series. Book 2 hardly has anything to do with the re-telling part, but if you liked the first book, this one will probably be liked as well. Maybe, if you can wait, you should leave a few weeks or months between the first and second book, because they are built so similar that if you get bored easily, you might not like to read them back to back. Seeing how I am simply so attached and in love with the characters, it wasn't a problem for me and I still give the series 4* and a warm recommendation to romance-fans! =)
Just like before, Kat and Edward are great, I like that she had to fall in love again and he tried hard. The plot twist at the end was something I didn't see coming and I wasn't too happy about it, but it does make the book a lot more exciting and I love that! It does seem a lot like the first book, that's true. There is again the getting-to-know the world, there is again realizing who she likes and hates and what she wants to do with her life. There is a stupid ending that makes you a bit angry. But all in all, it is just so enjoyable to be in that world and I still enjoy this series as one of my guilty pleasures. I simply enjoy this book whole-heartedly and if anybody wants to read a nice fairytale re-telling, start this series. Book 2 hardly has anything to do with the re-telling part, but if you liked the first book, this one will probably be liked as well. Maybe, if you can wait, you should leave a few weeks or months between the first and second book, because they are built so similar that if you get bored easily, you might not like to read them back to back. Seeing how I am simply so attached and in love with the characters, it wasn't a problem for me and I still give the series 4* and a warm recommendation to romance-fans! =)
December 15, 2018
Even though I haven't read the first book yet, the very first chapter got me hooked... I just loved the little spoiled princess demanding a happy lasting ending and fell in love with the story it self.
November 18, 2021
I am loving this series. Even if I am not loving some of the choices the characters are making. I am so ready for the next book in the series. So far both books have ended in tragedy. I am waiting for a true happy ending for Kate and Edward.
July 25, 2018
Waouw !! Vivement la suite !!
April 14, 2025
1,5/5⭐️
January 1, 2026
these books are so silly i cant stop
January 26, 2018
It was pretty crazy. Kat irritated me so much through out the first half of the book. She didn’t read like someone who was 24. She seemed whiny, immature and just rude. It was a good story but seemed really repetitive. I still love the characters though. I think a different location would have been nice, but overall I did enjoy it. The school losing members bothered me a lot and the trial at the end was a crazy twist. I’m still suited for the next book.
September 26, 2020
It is sort of like the first book but sooooooooo much better. I definitely recommend it t anyone who likes retells of fairytales.
March 1, 2019
I'm sure Aya Ling had a tea with Satan after writing this book
January 28, 2022
http://www.my-bo0ks.com/2018/05/les-c...
Avant de commencer ma chronique sur ce second tome des contes inachevés, je tiens à préciser que la petite nouvelle (tome 1.5) La princesse d'Athelia est incluse dans celui-ci. Un joli bonus qui m'a vraiment énormément plu. Les événements de celui-ci se passent juste après la fin du premier tome mais juste avant l'épilogue. Cette nouvelle nous permet d'en apprendre un peu plus sur l'univers mais surtout sur ce qu'il s'est passé avant le fin mot du conte. J'ai adoré chaque petit moment et savourer comme il se doit ce bonus. J'aurais pu vous en faire une chronique bien distincte mais je me suis dit que j'allais me venger sur le second tome.
Parlons donc maintenant du second tome des contes inachevés, Il était deux fois. Comme je vous le disais hier dans ma chronique du premier tome (La vilaine belle-soeur), je me suis tout de suite jetée sur le second tome. Première chose à dire, je suis toujours aussi fan de cette série. Aya Ling continue de me captiver et me séduire avec son univers.
Côté histoire, les choses sont assez différentes du premier tome. Dans Il était deux fois, Kat est de retour dans son monde. Sept ans ont passé et elle ne garde aucun souvenirs de son passage dans le conte de Cendrillon, ni même de sa rencontre avec le Prince Edward, dont elle est tombée amoureuse. Sans savoir comment ni pourquoi, la revoilà aspirée dans le livre, sans aucun souvenirs et avec la ferme intention d'en ressortir dès que possible.
Si dans le premier tome, Kat était plutôt encline à découvrir et aider Elle, la Cendrillon du conte. Dans ce second tome, elle ne veut absolument pas rester et se montre assez peu coopérative. Il faut dire qu'il y a de quoi déstabiliser puisqu'elle est marié à un inconnu qui n'est autre que le Prince. De son côté, Edward ne lâche rien et tente de reconquérir celle qu'il aime et qu'il a déjà perdu une fois.
Vous l'aurez donc compris, tout est à refaire et tout est à redécouvrir pour notre héroïne, Kat. Le palais et ses secrets regorgent de mystères et surtout nos personnages ont tout à réapprendre l'un de l'autre. Car siEdward n'a pas changé, Kat, elle a sept ans de plus et une vie qui l'attend dans son monde. Le côté politique et les enjeux du palais seront d'autant plus
Côté intrigue, le suspense est encore à son comble. Déjà, sa simple présence reste un mystère pour elle, comme pour nous. La première fois était une punition pour notre héroïne, mais cette fois-ci, rien n'est pareil puisque ce n'est pas du fait de Kat, mais de quelqu'un d'encore plus mystérieux. Mais cette première interrogation n'est pas la seule. Kat retombera t-elle amoureuse du Prince ou restera t-elle sur ses gardes ? Que cache Bianca, sa sœur rongée par la jalousie et enfin, arrivera t-elle à rester dans ce monde ou repartira t-elle ? Tant de questions qui nous tiendront en haleine du début à la fin.
Une fois de plus, j'ai adoré voir évoluer les personnages. Ils sont toujours aussi attachants et vraiment mignons à suivre. La romance est autant présente que dans le premier tome. Les sentiments et les émotions sont présentes d'autant plus que la relation Edward/Kat n'est pas forcément au beau fixe.
Je pensais ne pas que la fin d'Il était deux fois pouvait être pire que pour le premier. Eh bien si. Ce second tome nous surprend dans ces derniers chapitres pour nous laisser sur le carreau dans les dernières pages. Je soupçonne l'auteure de prendre un malin plaisir à nous laisser avec un tel cliffhanger. En tout cas, le tour est joué, le troisième tome aurait été disponible de suite, j'aurais fait une entorse à mon NoBuy pour pouvoir me jeter sur la conclusion de cette série.
En conclusion, j'ai adoré cette suite, à la hauteur du premier tome. Les contes inachevés ne cessent de me surprendre et les personnages de m'étonner. La romance est mignonne à souhait, sans tomber dans le nian-nian et l'univers toujours aussi captivant. SI vous n'avez pas déjà craqué, il est temps d'y remédier !
Avant de commencer ma chronique sur ce second tome des contes inachevés, je tiens à préciser que la petite nouvelle (tome 1.5) La princesse d'Athelia est incluse dans celui-ci. Un joli bonus qui m'a vraiment énormément plu. Les événements de celui-ci se passent juste après la fin du premier tome mais juste avant l'épilogue. Cette nouvelle nous permet d'en apprendre un peu plus sur l'univers mais surtout sur ce qu'il s'est passé avant le fin mot du conte. J'ai adoré chaque petit moment et savourer comme il se doit ce bonus. J'aurais pu vous en faire une chronique bien distincte mais je me suis dit que j'allais me venger sur le second tome.
Parlons donc maintenant du second tome des contes inachevés, Il était deux fois. Comme je vous le disais hier dans ma chronique du premier tome (La vilaine belle-soeur), je me suis tout de suite jetée sur le second tome. Première chose à dire, je suis toujours aussi fan de cette série. Aya Ling continue de me captiver et me séduire avec son univers.
Côté histoire, les choses sont assez différentes du premier tome. Dans Il était deux fois, Kat est de retour dans son monde. Sept ans ont passé et elle ne garde aucun souvenirs de son passage dans le conte de Cendrillon, ni même de sa rencontre avec le Prince Edward, dont elle est tombée amoureuse. Sans savoir comment ni pourquoi, la revoilà aspirée dans le livre, sans aucun souvenirs et avec la ferme intention d'en ressortir dès que possible.
Si dans le premier tome, Kat était plutôt encline à découvrir et aider Elle, la Cendrillon du conte. Dans ce second tome, elle ne veut absolument pas rester et se montre assez peu coopérative. Il faut dire qu'il y a de quoi déstabiliser puisqu'elle est marié à un inconnu qui n'est autre que le Prince. De son côté, Edward ne lâche rien et tente de reconquérir celle qu'il aime et qu'il a déjà perdu une fois.
Vous l'aurez donc compris, tout est à refaire et tout est à redécouvrir pour notre héroïne, Kat. Le palais et ses secrets regorgent de mystères et surtout nos personnages ont tout à réapprendre l'un de l'autre. Car siEdward n'a pas changé, Kat, elle a sept ans de plus et une vie qui l'attend dans son monde. Le côté politique et les enjeux du palais seront d'autant plus
Côté intrigue, le suspense est encore à son comble. Déjà, sa simple présence reste un mystère pour elle, comme pour nous. La première fois était une punition pour notre héroïne, mais cette fois-ci, rien n'est pareil puisque ce n'est pas du fait de Kat, mais de quelqu'un d'encore plus mystérieux. Mais cette première interrogation n'est pas la seule. Kat retombera t-elle amoureuse du Prince ou restera t-elle sur ses gardes ? Que cache Bianca, sa sœur rongée par la jalousie et enfin, arrivera t-elle à rester dans ce monde ou repartira t-elle ? Tant de questions qui nous tiendront en haleine du début à la fin.
Une fois de plus, j'ai adoré voir évoluer les personnages. Ils sont toujours aussi attachants et vraiment mignons à suivre. La romance est autant présente que dans le premier tome. Les sentiments et les émotions sont présentes d'autant plus que la relation Edward/Kat n'est pas forcément au beau fixe.
Je pensais ne pas que la fin d'Il était deux fois pouvait être pire que pour le premier. Eh bien si. Ce second tome nous surprend dans ces derniers chapitres pour nous laisser sur le carreau dans les dernières pages. Je soupçonne l'auteure de prendre un malin plaisir à nous laisser avec un tel cliffhanger. En tout cas, le tour est joué, le troisième tome aurait été disponible de suite, j'aurais fait une entorse à mon NoBuy pour pouvoir me jeter sur la conclusion de cette série.
En conclusion, j'ai adoré cette suite, à la hauteur du premier tome. Les contes inachevés ne cessent de me surprendre et les personnages de m'étonner. La romance est mignonne à souhait, sans tomber dans le nian-nian et l'univers toujours aussi captivant. SI vous n'avez pas déjà craqué, il est temps d'y remédier !
August 9, 2023
3.5 stars
This feels like a filler book. I feel frustrated. Girl, when can they have their happy ending?
This feels like a filler book. I feel frustrated. Girl, when can they have their happy ending?
March 26, 2019
https://celebrityreaders.com/2019/03/...
This was a solid follow up to the first book. And not at ALL what I was expecting. The evil stepsister takes a more prominent role in this one and I tried, you guys, really tried to find her angle. But it didn’t hit me what it was until the moment I found out!
Kat was even more ambitious in her want to change the laws, she seems a bit too forward thinking and wants change to happen very quickly without letting the kingdom absorb her ideas first. But I understand her stance. She gets a bit too uppity in this one and it bites her in the ass. Edward indulges her at times and tries to reel her in a bit in others. I admired the crap outta Edward for being there for Kat, even to his detriment. But I got a bit tired of her righteousness towards the end.
The ending was another surprise! Like, I had NO IDEA it was gonna go down like that! I was so excited for this plot twist, ohhing and ahhhing throughout the end.
I immediately got the next one after.
This was a solid follow up to the first book. And not at ALL what I was expecting. The evil stepsister takes a more prominent role in this one and I tried, you guys, really tried to find her angle. But it didn’t hit me what it was until the moment I found out!
Kat was even more ambitious in her want to change the laws, she seems a bit too forward thinking and wants change to happen very quickly without letting the kingdom absorb her ideas first. But I understand her stance. She gets a bit too uppity in this one and it bites her in the ass. Edward indulges her at times and tries to reel her in a bit in others. I admired the crap outta Edward for being there for Kat, even to his detriment. But I got a bit tired of her righteousness towards the end.
The ending was another surprise! Like, I had NO IDEA it was gonna go down like that! I was so excited for this plot twist, ohhing and ahhhing throughout the end.
I immediately got the next one after.
March 22, 2020
http://www.esmeraldaviaggielibri.it/c...
C’era Una Volta… O Due? di Aya Ling, secondo volume della serie fantasy Le favole incompiute pubblicato da Hope Edizioni il 10 marzo.
Ringrazio la CE per avermi inviato anche la novella, La Principessa di Athelia. Torniamo ad Athelia, regno che avevo lasciato a malincuore e che mi mancava molto. Chi ha letto La Cenerentola sbagliata sa che non c’è stato alcun lieto fine, Kat, la nostra amata protagonista pasticciona, è dovuta tornare nel mondo reale dopo aver sposato il Principe Azzurro. Da questa sua avventura è nato un libro in edizione tascabile, una favola alternativa a quella classica di Cenerentola, che lei ha letto tantissime volte in questi sette anni, ma che non le ha mai provocato alcun ricordo di quell’esperienza fantastica.
La Kat che viene raccontata nella novella è esattamente la Kat che ricordavamo, d’altronde narra il periodo precedente alle nozze con Edward, in cui deve imparare come si comporta una vera Principessa, senza rinunciare alle battaglie per i diritti dei bambini intraprese con grande spirito d’iniziativa. Ma soprattutto deve venire a patti col tempo che comincia a scarseggiare perché, una volta sposati, la favola sarà compiuta e Kat tornerà al suo mondo senza conservare alcun ricordo del ragazzo che le ha rapito il cuore. «È così che funziona l’incantesimo. Al suono delle campane, Krev mi riporterà indietro attraverso un portale magico.» Deglutisce, ma fa un sorriso che sembra davvero sincero. «Abbiamo nove mesi, rendiamoli i più felici, viviamoli al meglio.» Edward la ama così tanto che non solo ha accettato tutto questo, ma ha anche deciso che vuole conservare tutti i ricordi della sua storia con Kat…
Sono passati sette anni, Kat ha terminato l’Università e si barcamena tra lavori che non le danno alcuna soddisfazione in attesa della grande occasione. Frequenta un ragazzo che le piace, sua madre è finalmente felice e sua sorella sta per realizzare il sogno di andare a studiare all’estero con una borsa di studio. Se non fosse per il lavoro potrebbe definire appagante la sua vita, ma c’è qualcuno che non è per niente felice del mancato lieto fine tra Kat e Edward.
«Quindi, ha semplicemente lasciato Edward in piedi sull’altare, così?» «Non è rimasto da solo, amore. La Katriona originale è tornata nel suo corpo, quindi ha ancora una sposa. Edward ha fatto in modo che nessuno sospettasse lo scambio di ruoli, e Kat non ricorda nulla della sua vita nella favola, così le è stato risparmiato il dolore della perdita del vero amore. Non turbare la tua bella testolina con queste cose.» La suddetta bella testolina, in quel momento, si stava scuotendo oltraggiata. «Questo non è un lieto fine, papino! Mi hai mentito! HAI MENTITO!»
Errore madornale far infuriare Pippi, la figlioletta del re dei goblin Barthelius. Lei non accetta questo finale tragico, Kat e Edward sono nati per passare la loro vita uniti, per avere tanti figli, per amarsi per sempre e così, tratta in inganno dal fratello scapestrato del re, finisce per aiutarlo a entrare in possesso di un anello, in cambio lui riporterà indietro il tempo al momento prima del matrimonio e Kat riprenderà il suo posto al fianco del Principe Azzurro. Pippi è molto soddisfatta di questa proposta, finalmente Kat e Edward potranno vivere per sempre felici e contenti come in ogni fiaba che si rispetti…ma sarà davvero così?
Kat si ritrova nel regno di Athelia con indosso un completino di Victoria Secret, non riconosce la stanza e non vede Jason da nessuna parte, eppure era appena uscita dal suo bagno quando si è materializzato sul letto il suo libro La Cenerentola sbagliata. Che poi come diavolo c’è finito quel libro a casa di Jason? Mentre il suo cervello cerca di capirci qualcosa entra nella stanza un ragazzo bellissimo che rimane sbalordito nel trovarsela davanti e le spiega che lei è la sua sposa, la principessa di Athelia. Kat non riesce a capire cosa si sia messo in testa questo Edward, ma di certo la ragazza che descrive somiglia molto alla se stessa di sette anni prima. Tutte le spiegazioni di Edward le paiono folli e non vede l’ora che tutto finisca per poter tornare a casa, principe o non principe lei è certa di non essere innamorata di lui e non ha nessuna intenzione di dargli modo di avvicinarsi troppo a lei. Kat è sempre stata una zuccona, ma ciò che è unito dal vero amore ritorna sempre e così, nonostante tutti i suoi sforzi, restare indifferente a Edward le sarà impossibile. Se deve restare per sempre ad Athelia vuole imparare a conoscere di nuovo tutto questo mondo e vuole che Edward la corteggi per essere certa di non rimanere perché obbligata dalle circostanze, ma per scelta, per amore. Riusciranno i nostri amati ad avere il loro lieto fine?
Inizio a pensare che Aya Ling sia sadica, certo ti prepara a ogni evenienza, ma quando poi ti trovi in balia degli eventi dimentichi tutto e speri come una cretina che le cose si risolvano come per magia. In fondo è proprio di magia che si tratta quindi sperare non costa nulla. La differenza maggiore riscontata tra La Cenerentola sbagliata e C’era Una Volta… O Due? è la caratterizzazione di Kat, d’altronde per lei sono trascorsi sette anni dalla sua prima volta ad Athelia e non può essere rimasta la stessa ragazzina. Certo i suoi ideali sono rimasti gli stessi, ma è meno avventata e pasticciona di un tempo, anche meno divertente devo ammetterlo e questo non è necessariamente un male perché coerente con la sua evoluzione. Edward rimane sempre il principe che ci ha fatto sospirare nel primo capitolo, qui un po’ più audace visto che deve rapportarsi con una donna di ventiquattro anni e non con una ragazza di diciassette. Ovviamente anche i villain e gli amici restano uguali a se stessi perché per loro non è trascorso nemmeno un giorno dalle nozze (se volete rinfrescarvi la memoria li trovate tutti nella recensione di La Cenerentola sbagliata).
Se come me amate i retelling e Cenerentola è una delle vostre favole preferite, se non siete fissate con il lieto fine a ogni costo, se le protagoniste fuori dal tempo sono la vostra passione, se sognate da sempre di essere catapultate nel mondo delle fiabe la serie Le favole incompiute è perfetta per voi e non potete perdervi La Cenerentola sbagliata e C’era Una Volta… O Due?
C’era Una Volta… O Due? di Aya Ling, secondo volume della serie fantasy Le favole incompiute pubblicato da Hope Edizioni il 10 marzo.
Ringrazio la CE per avermi inviato anche la novella, La Principessa di Athelia. Torniamo ad Athelia, regno che avevo lasciato a malincuore e che mi mancava molto. Chi ha letto La Cenerentola sbagliata sa che non c’è stato alcun lieto fine, Kat, la nostra amata protagonista pasticciona, è dovuta tornare nel mondo reale dopo aver sposato il Principe Azzurro. Da questa sua avventura è nato un libro in edizione tascabile, una favola alternativa a quella classica di Cenerentola, che lei ha letto tantissime volte in questi sette anni, ma che non le ha mai provocato alcun ricordo di quell’esperienza fantastica.
La Kat che viene raccontata nella novella è esattamente la Kat che ricordavamo, d’altronde narra il periodo precedente alle nozze con Edward, in cui deve imparare come si comporta una vera Principessa, senza rinunciare alle battaglie per i diritti dei bambini intraprese con grande spirito d’iniziativa. Ma soprattutto deve venire a patti col tempo che comincia a scarseggiare perché, una volta sposati, la favola sarà compiuta e Kat tornerà al suo mondo senza conservare alcun ricordo del ragazzo che le ha rapito il cuore. «È così che funziona l’incantesimo. Al suono delle campane, Krev mi riporterà indietro attraverso un portale magico.» Deglutisce, ma fa un sorriso che sembra davvero sincero. «Abbiamo nove mesi, rendiamoli i più felici, viviamoli al meglio.» Edward la ama così tanto che non solo ha accettato tutto questo, ma ha anche deciso che vuole conservare tutti i ricordi della sua storia con Kat…
Sono passati sette anni, Kat ha terminato l’Università e si barcamena tra lavori che non le danno alcuna soddisfazione in attesa della grande occasione. Frequenta un ragazzo che le piace, sua madre è finalmente felice e sua sorella sta per realizzare il sogno di andare a studiare all’estero con una borsa di studio. Se non fosse per il lavoro potrebbe definire appagante la sua vita, ma c’è qualcuno che non è per niente felice del mancato lieto fine tra Kat e Edward.
«Quindi, ha semplicemente lasciato Edward in piedi sull’altare, così?» «Non è rimasto da solo, amore. La Katriona originale è tornata nel suo corpo, quindi ha ancora una sposa. Edward ha fatto in modo che nessuno sospettasse lo scambio di ruoli, e Kat non ricorda nulla della sua vita nella favola, così le è stato risparmiato il dolore della perdita del vero amore. Non turbare la tua bella testolina con queste cose.» La suddetta bella testolina, in quel momento, si stava scuotendo oltraggiata. «Questo non è un lieto fine, papino! Mi hai mentito! HAI MENTITO!»
Errore madornale far infuriare Pippi, la figlioletta del re dei goblin Barthelius. Lei non accetta questo finale tragico, Kat e Edward sono nati per passare la loro vita uniti, per avere tanti figli, per amarsi per sempre e così, tratta in inganno dal fratello scapestrato del re, finisce per aiutarlo a entrare in possesso di un anello, in cambio lui riporterà indietro il tempo al momento prima del matrimonio e Kat riprenderà il suo posto al fianco del Principe Azzurro. Pippi è molto soddisfatta di questa proposta, finalmente Kat e Edward potranno vivere per sempre felici e contenti come in ogni fiaba che si rispetti…ma sarà davvero così?
Kat si ritrova nel regno di Athelia con indosso un completino di Victoria Secret, non riconosce la stanza e non vede Jason da nessuna parte, eppure era appena uscita dal suo bagno quando si è materializzato sul letto il suo libro La Cenerentola sbagliata. Che poi come diavolo c’è finito quel libro a casa di Jason? Mentre il suo cervello cerca di capirci qualcosa entra nella stanza un ragazzo bellissimo che rimane sbalordito nel trovarsela davanti e le spiega che lei è la sua sposa, la principessa di Athelia. Kat non riesce a capire cosa si sia messo in testa questo Edward, ma di certo la ragazza che descrive somiglia molto alla se stessa di sette anni prima. Tutte le spiegazioni di Edward le paiono folli e non vede l’ora che tutto finisca per poter tornare a casa, principe o non principe lei è certa di non essere innamorata di lui e non ha nessuna intenzione di dargli modo di avvicinarsi troppo a lei. Kat è sempre stata una zuccona, ma ciò che è unito dal vero amore ritorna sempre e così, nonostante tutti i suoi sforzi, restare indifferente a Edward le sarà impossibile. Se deve restare per sempre ad Athelia vuole imparare a conoscere di nuovo tutto questo mondo e vuole che Edward la corteggi per essere certa di non rimanere perché obbligata dalle circostanze, ma per scelta, per amore. Riusciranno i nostri amati ad avere il loro lieto fine?
Inizio a pensare che Aya Ling sia sadica, certo ti prepara a ogni evenienza, ma quando poi ti trovi in balia degli eventi dimentichi tutto e speri come una cretina che le cose si risolvano come per magia. In fondo è proprio di magia che si tratta quindi sperare non costa nulla. La differenza maggiore riscontata tra La Cenerentola sbagliata e C’era Una Volta… O Due? è la caratterizzazione di Kat, d’altronde per lei sono trascorsi sette anni dalla sua prima volta ad Athelia e non può essere rimasta la stessa ragazzina. Certo i suoi ideali sono rimasti gli stessi, ma è meno avventata e pasticciona di un tempo, anche meno divertente devo ammetterlo e questo non è necessariamente un male perché coerente con la sua evoluzione. Edward rimane sempre il principe che ci ha fatto sospirare nel primo capitolo, qui un po’ più audace visto che deve rapportarsi con una donna di ventiquattro anni e non con una ragazza di diciassette. Ovviamente anche i villain e gli amici restano uguali a se stessi perché per loro non è trascorso nemmeno un giorno dalle nozze (se volete rinfrescarvi la memoria li trovate tutti nella recensione di La Cenerentola sbagliata).
Se come me amate i retelling e Cenerentola è una delle vostre favole preferite, se non siete fissate con il lieto fine a ogni costo, se le protagoniste fuori dal tempo sono la vostra passione, se sognate da sempre di essere catapultate nel mondo delle fiabe la serie Le favole incompiute è perfetta per voi e non potete perdervi La Cenerentola sbagliata e C’era Una Volta… O Due?
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