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Gods & Monsters #1
Dawn to Dark
I'm sure you've heard the tales, we all have, but you’ve never heard them quite like this…
Seven authors bring your seven nail-biting stories. From a dark and twisted Rapunzel to a modern retelling of Cinderella, these authors will have you enthralled and howling for more.
Halston James retells Beauty and the Beast with a twist. “Out of the Woods” has a touch of urban fantasy and a healthy dose of paranormal romance that’ll have you turning the pages, ravenous for more.
Sonya Jesus will capture you with her dark contemporary retelling of the Little Mermaid in "Part of His World." Follow Ari as she defies her father’s strict rules to be part of Derrick’s life.
Suzan Lee has re-written a Grimm brothers classic, Snow White and Rose Red in her young adult, contemporary "Witching Woods." With magic and malevolence strolling hand in hand, you'll be left guessing right until the end.
Kelsie Rae is best known for her sweet contemporary romances, and her version of Aladdin is no different. “The Hack”is a modern twist on a Disney favorite. One girl who prays for freedom. One man who craves a different life. One hacker with the power to change their stars. Three wishes. No turning back.
Take a step on the seductive side with Angharad Thompson Ree's gothic horror retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. A paranormal romance meets psychological thriller, “Moon Bitten" is a story that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
K.Z. Riley has written "Arabella", a beautiful young adult love story where you're more likely to find soccer boots than glass slippers. Follow Arabella on her journey of finding herself, discovering love and overcoming fear.
If you think you know the story of Rapunzel, think again. Courtney Shockey’s twisted tale is about a queen who looks far more innocent than she actually is. Bring her silk or priceless gifts, and she’ll seal your fate with a sweet, gentle kiss.
Seven authors bring your seven nail-biting stories. From a dark and twisted Rapunzel to a modern retelling of Cinderella, these authors will have you enthralled and howling for more.
Halston James retells Beauty and the Beast with a twist. “Out of the Woods” has a touch of urban fantasy and a healthy dose of paranormal romance that’ll have you turning the pages, ravenous for more.
Sonya Jesus will capture you with her dark contemporary retelling of the Little Mermaid in "Part of His World." Follow Ari as she defies her father’s strict rules to be part of Derrick’s life.
Suzan Lee has re-written a Grimm brothers classic, Snow White and Rose Red in her young adult, contemporary "Witching Woods." With magic and malevolence strolling hand in hand, you'll be left guessing right until the end.
Kelsie Rae is best known for her sweet contemporary romances, and her version of Aladdin is no different. “The Hack”is a modern twist on a Disney favorite. One girl who prays for freedom. One man who craves a different life. One hacker with the power to change their stars. Three wishes. No turning back.
Take a step on the seductive side with Angharad Thompson Ree's gothic horror retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. A paranormal romance meets psychological thriller, “Moon Bitten" is a story that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
K.Z. Riley has written "Arabella", a beautiful young adult love story where you're more likely to find soccer boots than glass slippers. Follow Arabella on her journey of finding herself, discovering love and overcoming fear.
If you think you know the story of Rapunzel, think again. Courtney Shockey’s twisted tale is about a queen who looks far more innocent than she actually is. Bring her silk or priceless gifts, and she’ll seal your fate with a sweet, gentle kiss.
- GenresAnthologies
478 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2022
141 people are currently reading
361 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 21, 2019
I have to say that the 7 novels in this set of re-telling of fairy tales is excellent, I must admit that not all stories were familiar to me, but the ones which were, such as Cinderella, Aladdin, Rapunzel and Red Riding Hood took on a more gritty dark look to the usual story we know and of course this brings them into the realm of adult fantasy. I would rate most of the stories as five star and maybe two I would give four stars to, but in general this set of tales is one not to be missed. I particularly enjoyed the dark gritty, horror story by Angharad Thompson Rees which is an amazing re-telling of the Red Riding Hood story called Moon Bitten, and the Rapunzel re-telling by Courtney Shockey which is definitely a darker tale than the one we grew up with, as is Out of the Woods by Halston James, a shapeshifter tale which is so beautifully written, describing the bond between mates as a forever bond. Also witching woods I found to be utterly spell binding, dark and mysterious and I loved every moment of the story even though I could not place which fairy tale it was re-telling. The fact that mostly all the tales where depicted in our more modern day version of life makes them even more interesting especially when we get things like hackers and jealousy which runs rife in the teenage world with lots of bitching and back stabbing. A highly recommended set of novels not to be missed!
March 30, 2019
HOLY HELL SWEET BABY JESUS WTF did I just read is what I said after reading these seven stories that had me on the edge of my seat wanting no needing to know what was going to happen. I needed to know how these authors were going to spin these tales that are both dark and disturbing and I tell you kudos to these seven authors because they did a kick arse job at re-telling these children fairy tales and making them adult fantasy that every one needs to read.
I will say I don't have a favorite one because I loved them all. You get Rapunzel, Little Red Riding hood, and so much more that once you start reading you can't put it down because you need to know what is coming next and when you find out you are like OH MY GOD WTF did I just read!
So go on out and one click this Anthology because you won't be sorry.
I will say I don't have a favorite one because I loved them all. You get Rapunzel, Little Red Riding hood, and so much more that once you start reading you can't put it down because you need to know what is coming next and when you find out you are like OH MY GOD WTF did I just read!
So go on out and one click this Anthology because you won't be sorry.
January 7, 2024
All these authors are new to me which I really enjoyed finding new authors. This very different fairy tails and Disney movies we grow up with. They all had a different twist to it which I really liked.
March 26, 2019
This is a wonderful collection of paranormal tales by seven great authors. Each is a fairy tale retelling. See if you can guess the origin story for them all. Some are easy others may stump you, but each is worth your time. Enjoy each unique story and don’t forget, they sometimes save the best for last!
Arabella by R. Z. Riley
Arabella’s life has been little better than one of a servant in her own home since the death of her father. On her eighteenth birthday she makes her break. She has gotten a scholarship to a college far from her home and the step-mother that has been her tormentor for years.
Arabella has led a sheltered life, being kept from true social interaction since she was a child. How will Arabella fair thrown into dorm life? Will she remain hidden from her step-mother or will the woman hunt her down?
The Hack by Kelsie Rae
Aladdin has never had much, being an orphan since childhood, with no one to look out for him. Most days he eats what he can pilfer from the bazaar. He would love to work for a living. Unfortunately his reputation as a thief is too wide spread for anyone to chance employing him.
His home isn’t much more than a hovel, just a room in an abandon building. He has friends in the neighborhood, and all the other younger orphans like himself that he tries to spend time with. But his closest friend is Abu, a monkey he saved from a dumpster.
There really isn’t much he wants, other than to eat every day. Until he happens to rescue two people on the same day. One is the most beautiful girl he has ever seen. The other a rather scrawny nerd. Both victims had run-ins with bullies. Both times he performed selfless acts to save them. How do each of these individuals affect Aladdin’s life? What can the two have to do with each other?
Witching Woods by Suzan Lee
Rose and Lilly are twin sisters. Since they just graduated and have a bit of a break before attending college, they decide to have a holiday at the family cabin in the woods. It is a place they each love. Rose is the more outdoor loving of the two, but she can often talk Lilly into the woods with her, when she can get her away from her books or cooking.
This visit to the cabin will be like no other. They are destined to have an experience with a wolf and a bear that will change these girl’s lives forever. Do you dare enter the witching woods?
Part of His World by Sonya Jesus
Throughout high school, Derrick Prince and his two closest friends have sponsored a You Tube channel, documenting the lives of the modern high school teen. Derrick's face has been in the limelight constantly. Not much in his life is truly private anymore.
He is tired of always being recognized, and would like to take a step back away from the camera. His friends have different ideas though, they have sponsored a contest among viewers to find Derrick a prom date.
Ari on the other hand lives a life virtually devoid of media. She doesn’t have a phone, computer or any social media accounts. Her father is so fanatical about security that Ari is even home schooled and not allowed a job. He has his reasons, but Ari craves freedom.
Secretly, though not a subscriber, Ari is a huge Derrick Prince fan. She watches all the episodes on her cousin’s phone. What happens when these two teens from complete different worlds come face to face at Ari’s family’s diner?
Woman in the Ivy Tower by Courtney Shockey
This is a story of Rapunzel as you have never imagined it. There is no retiring maiden in this tale. This Rapunzel is a vicious queen who rules her land with an iron hand. She surrounds herself with every luxury and cares little for the state of her subjects, as long as they worship her.
It takes more than a lifetime, but eventually her subjects rebel. They wait until their magical queen is at her weakest, then they overrun her castle. She is relocated to an isolated tower.
The rebels have done their homework and found the one thing that would keep their queen locked away in her tower. Further they try to guarantee she has no way to regain her strength and escape. Will the villagers prevail? Will the queen be locked away for eternity?
Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees
Red has been an orphan most of her life. She never knew her father and her mother was taken by a wolf. Fortunately for Red, she had her grandmother to love, protect and raise her. Red is no longer a child. She is a young woman who longs to stay with her love, Blaxton, but her grandmother is against the pairing.
She spends as much time as she can with Blaxton, but at the end of the day she always returns home to her grandmother. The woman has devoted so much of her life to Red, and Red returns her affection and loyalty. Eventually Grandmother will see how faithful Blaxton is and change her mind.
Upon returning home and interrupting an attack on her grandmother by a vicious wolf, Red’s life is changed forever. She manages to wound the wolf and drive it away, but not before the wolf kills her grandmother and bites Red’s arm.
Blaxton tries to be comforting, but Red can think only of her revenge on the wolf that stole the most important person in her life. She is determined to end the curse upon her family once and for all. Will Red find the wolf? Will she be able to prevail in a fight to the death?
Arabella by R. Z. Riley
Arabella’s life has been little better than one of a servant in her own home since the death of her father. On her eighteenth birthday she makes her break. She has gotten a scholarship to a college far from her home and the step-mother that has been her tormentor for years.
Arabella has led a sheltered life, being kept from true social interaction since she was a child. How will Arabella fair thrown into dorm life? Will she remain hidden from her step-mother or will the woman hunt her down?
The Hack by Kelsie Rae
Aladdin has never had much, being an orphan since childhood, with no one to look out for him. Most days he eats what he can pilfer from the bazaar. He would love to work for a living. Unfortunately his reputation as a thief is too wide spread for anyone to chance employing him.
His home isn’t much more than a hovel, just a room in an abandon building. He has friends in the neighborhood, and all the other younger orphans like himself that he tries to spend time with. But his closest friend is Abu, a monkey he saved from a dumpster.
There really isn’t much he wants, other than to eat every day. Until he happens to rescue two people on the same day. One is the most beautiful girl he has ever seen. The other a rather scrawny nerd. Both victims had run-ins with bullies. Both times he performed selfless acts to save them. How do each of these individuals affect Aladdin’s life? What can the two have to do with each other?
Witching Woods by Suzan Lee
Rose and Lilly are twin sisters. Since they just graduated and have a bit of a break before attending college, they decide to have a holiday at the family cabin in the woods. It is a place they each love. Rose is the more outdoor loving of the two, but she can often talk Lilly into the woods with her, when she can get her away from her books or cooking.
This visit to the cabin will be like no other. They are destined to have an experience with a wolf and a bear that will change these girl’s lives forever. Do you dare enter the witching woods?
Part of His World by Sonya Jesus
Throughout high school, Derrick Prince and his two closest friends have sponsored a You Tube channel, documenting the lives of the modern high school teen. Derrick's face has been in the limelight constantly. Not much in his life is truly private anymore.
He is tired of always being recognized, and would like to take a step back away from the camera. His friends have different ideas though, they have sponsored a contest among viewers to find Derrick a prom date.
Ari on the other hand lives a life virtually devoid of media. She doesn’t have a phone, computer or any social media accounts. Her father is so fanatical about security that Ari is even home schooled and not allowed a job. He has his reasons, but Ari craves freedom.
Secretly, though not a subscriber, Ari is a huge Derrick Prince fan. She watches all the episodes on her cousin’s phone. What happens when these two teens from complete different worlds come face to face at Ari’s family’s diner?
Woman in the Ivy Tower by Courtney Shockey
This is a story of Rapunzel as you have never imagined it. There is no retiring maiden in this tale. This Rapunzel is a vicious queen who rules her land with an iron hand. She surrounds herself with every luxury and cares little for the state of her subjects, as long as they worship her.
It takes more than a lifetime, but eventually her subjects rebel. They wait until their magical queen is at her weakest, then they overrun her castle. She is relocated to an isolated tower.
The rebels have done their homework and found the one thing that would keep their queen locked away in her tower. Further they try to guarantee she has no way to regain her strength and escape. Will the villagers prevail? Will the queen be locked away for eternity?
Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees
Red has been an orphan most of her life. She never knew her father and her mother was taken by a wolf. Fortunately for Red, she had her grandmother to love, protect and raise her. Red is no longer a child. She is a young woman who longs to stay with her love, Blaxton, but her grandmother is against the pairing.
She spends as much time as she can with Blaxton, but at the end of the day she always returns home to her grandmother. The woman has devoted so much of her life to Red, and Red returns her affection and loyalty. Eventually Grandmother will see how faithful Blaxton is and change her mind.
Upon returning home and interrupting an attack on her grandmother by a vicious wolf, Red’s life is changed forever. She manages to wound the wolf and drive it away, but not before the wolf kills her grandmother and bites Red’s arm.
Blaxton tries to be comforting, but Red can think only of her revenge on the wolf that stole the most important person in her life. She is determined to end the curse upon her family once and for all. Will Red find the wolf? Will she be able to prevail in a fight to the death?
March 21, 2019
Dawn to Dark is jam packed with every kind of new twist on classic fairytales you can imagine. Everything from the super sexy to the sugary sweet is found in this fantastic group of author’s who have come together for this anthology! I loved the walk down memory lane these stories told. I loved going back to my childhood and seeing these stories through different eyes.
Arabella is a sweet Cinderella. Shes lived a hard life and when she finally runs away and meets the man of her dreams, things become a little harder. Royce and Arabella are sweet together, and this story was adorable.
I've never read a modern day Alladin and I was pleasantly surprised by it. It has all the trappings of Alladin but set in modern day. Everything you love about this favorite has been brought to life in a whole new world (pun intended 😉) to make you fall in love with these characters the same way I did as a child.
Witching Woods was completely different from what I expected. I loved Rose and Lily's story and I loved the myths interwoven in it. This is one I hope can have another story attached to it as I was completely captivated with it.
Out Of The Woods is a sweet Beauty and The Beast retelling and I loved it! I loved how brave Isabella was and how sweet Caleb is. I also love the twist of the retelling!
Part Of Your World was an interesting take on The Little Mermaid. I adored this story!
Woman In The Ivy Tower was exactly what I was looking for! Dark and twisted with the fairytale lore running through it. I LOVED this take on Rapunzel! As much as I loved the other stories, this one by far is my favorite!
Moon Bitten is an awesome take on one of my favorite fairytales. I loved this author's take on the fairytale! I was left in shock and she had me completely guessing throughout the story.
Arabella is a sweet Cinderella. Shes lived a hard life and when she finally runs away and meets the man of her dreams, things become a little harder. Royce and Arabella are sweet together, and this story was adorable.
I've never read a modern day Alladin and I was pleasantly surprised by it. It has all the trappings of Alladin but set in modern day. Everything you love about this favorite has been brought to life in a whole new world (pun intended 😉) to make you fall in love with these characters the same way I did as a child.
Witching Woods was completely different from what I expected. I loved Rose and Lily's story and I loved the myths interwoven in it. This is one I hope can have another story attached to it as I was completely captivated with it.
Out Of The Woods is a sweet Beauty and The Beast retelling and I loved it! I loved how brave Isabella was and how sweet Caleb is. I also love the twist of the retelling!
Part Of Your World was an interesting take on The Little Mermaid. I adored this story!
Woman In The Ivy Tower was exactly what I was looking for! Dark and twisted with the fairytale lore running through it. I LOVED this take on Rapunzel! As much as I loved the other stories, this one by far is my favorite!
Moon Bitten is an awesome take on one of my favorite fairytales. I loved this author's take on the fairytale! I was left in shock and she had me completely guessing throughout the story.
March 30, 2019
My enjoyment varied, but some good twists on classic fairytales here👸
I would say the imagination that went into these stories, some updated to contemporary times, others left in a vague traditional fairytale past, varied quite a bit. A few were 3, 3.5🌟 stars because they did little to update or change the original tale but, on average, the collection is 4 🌟 stars. My three favorites:
The Witching Woods by Suzan Lee
5🌟stars for unpredictability of the adventure😟
It's Snow White and Rose Red, contemporary, with two sisters, one a dreamer, the other an athlete, who meet paranormal menace in the woods. And a really good twist at the end. Those elements make up for the just okay writing style.
Part of This World by Sonya Jesus
4.5+ 🌟stars for fast pace, originality and great start and exciting ending😲
Little Mermaid told in contemporary, non magical terms, with a sheltered, loner girl and her vlog prince Derek.
Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees
4+🌟 stars for fast pace and compelling thrill😧
A traditionally-set Red Riding Hood fairytale that's gripping and macabre told from Red's fevered perspective, gory with twists and marauding shifters.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I would say the imagination that went into these stories, some updated to contemporary times, others left in a vague traditional fairytale past, varied quite a bit. A few were 3, 3.5🌟 stars because they did little to update or change the original tale but, on average, the collection is 4 🌟 stars. My three favorites:
The Witching Woods by Suzan Lee
5🌟stars for unpredictability of the adventure😟
It's Snow White and Rose Red, contemporary, with two sisters, one a dreamer, the other an athlete, who meet paranormal menace in the woods. And a really good twist at the end. Those elements make up for the just okay writing style.
Part of This World by Sonya Jesus
4.5+ 🌟stars for fast pace, originality and great start and exciting ending😲
Little Mermaid told in contemporary, non magical terms, with a sheltered, loner girl and her vlog prince Derek.
Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees
4+🌟 stars for fast pace and compelling thrill😧
A traditionally-set Red Riding Hood fairytale that's gripping and macabre told from Red's fevered perspective, gory with twists and marauding shifters.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 22, 2019
I really enjoyed all the stories! A fun read with each author putting a personal spin on an old tale, or mixing a few together.
Witching Woods grabbed me right away; I’ve always loved the take of Snow White and Rose Red, but the darker ending in this version makes me hope for more!
Witching Woods grabbed me right away; I’ve always loved the take of Snow White and Rose Red, but the darker ending in this version makes me hope for more!
March 22, 2019
Dawn to dark is jam packed with some of your favourite fairytales with some big ass twists I absolutely loved all this storys by some of are favourite authors really enjoyed this anthology and would definitely recommend it
March 21, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and the twists on the original stories. I wish the stories had been a bit longer with more detail but putting them all together in one anthology was genius.
January 14, 2022
unnecessary POV’s.
This book has so many different character POV’s that are changing so often that it just became irritating. I’d settle into one vein of the story and start enjoying it just for it to be cut off and someone else’s POV starts. There were absolutely some that aren’t necessary and just felt like filler which is even more irritating. Love the concept, unimpressed with the execution.
This book has so many different character POV’s that are changing so often that it just became irritating. I’d settle into one vein of the story and start enjoying it just for it to be cut off and someone else’s POV starts. There were absolutely some that aren’t necessary and just felt like filler which is even more irritating. Love the concept, unimpressed with the execution.
April 21, 2019
I love anthologies as you get to find new authors. Just looking at who is in this anthology I have only read the work of one of them before, know of one more and all the others are new to me.
This anthology gives us a retelling of the fairytales we all grew up with and love.
~Arabella by K.Z. Riley~
This is a new author to me and I look forward to reading more from her. This was the first Cinderella retelling I have read and I loved this adorable story but I need more. Royce and Arabella are sweet together.
~The Hack by Kelsie Rae~
I love this author's work and can never put her books down and this was the same. This was the first Aladdin retelling I have read and I loved it.
~Witching Woods by Suzan Lee~
This is another new author to me. I found this story to be utterly spell binding, dark and mysterious. I loved every moment of the story and couldn't put it down, even though I could not place which fairy tale it was retelling.
~Out of the Woods by Halston James~
This is another new author to me. I loved this retelling of Beauty and her Beast and I never wanted to put this story down.
~Part of His World by Sonya Jesus~
I have heard of this author before but haven't had a chance to read anything by her before this story. I loved this retelling of The Little Mermaid.
~Woman in the Ivy Tower by Courtney Shockey~
Another new author to me. I loved this retelling of Rapunzel.
~Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees~
Another new author to me. This is a retelling on Little Red Riding Hood and I loved it. I was left in shock and completely guessing throughout the story.
I received an advance copy of this book. I am voluntarily giving my honest review.
This anthology gives us a retelling of the fairytales we all grew up with and love.
~Arabella by K.Z. Riley~
This is a new author to me and I look forward to reading more from her. This was the first Cinderella retelling I have read and I loved this adorable story but I need more. Royce and Arabella are sweet together.
~The Hack by Kelsie Rae~
I love this author's work and can never put her books down and this was the same. This was the first Aladdin retelling I have read and I loved it.
~Witching Woods by Suzan Lee~
This is another new author to me. I found this story to be utterly spell binding, dark and mysterious. I loved every moment of the story and couldn't put it down, even though I could not place which fairy tale it was retelling.
~Out of the Woods by Halston James~
This is another new author to me. I loved this retelling of Beauty and her Beast and I never wanted to put this story down.
~Part of His World by Sonya Jesus~
I have heard of this author before but haven't had a chance to read anything by her before this story. I loved this retelling of The Little Mermaid.
~Woman in the Ivy Tower by Courtney Shockey~
Another new author to me. I loved this retelling of Rapunzel.
~Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees~
Another new author to me. This is a retelling on Little Red Riding Hood and I loved it. I was left in shock and completely guessing throughout the story.
I received an advance copy of this book. I am voluntarily giving my honest review.
March 30, 2019
Loved it. Some of the stories I liked more than others, but they were really well written and the cover is stunning. I need this on my shelf.
With that said, my favs were the dark versions of Little M and Cinder :) I LOVE the darker aspect, the emotional pull of the characters longing for something different. (That's basically what all fairytales revolve around: taking chances). I'm happy these two were dark but not so dark that I was left with a story hangover. Oh, and i loved the writing style. Both of them captured the innocence if the female lead, and Sonya's was sweet also. I'll def checking out more stuff on KZ Riley and Sonya Jesus. Oh and... I'm never selling anything online again. It def made me think.
I will say one thing. I wish these stories were at least double the size. I'd prefer more volumes and more stories, and I'd def want a seque with these authors. Dawn to Dark 2 anyone? #moveovergrimms.
With that said, my favs were the dark versions of Little M and Cinder :) I LOVE the darker aspect, the emotional pull of the characters longing for something different. (That's basically what all fairytales revolve around: taking chances). I'm happy these two were dark but not so dark that I was left with a story hangover. Oh, and i loved the writing style. Both of them captured the innocence if the female lead, and Sonya's was sweet also. I'll def checking out more stuff on KZ Riley and Sonya Jesus. Oh and... I'm never selling anything online again. It def made me think.
I will say one thing. I wish these stories were at least double the size. I'd prefer more volumes and more stories, and I'd def want a seque with these authors. Dawn to Dark 2 anyone? #moveovergrimms.
April 9, 2019
I haven't read this whole book set, yet. So far I've read three of the stories and am very impressed!
I have decided to already post my review and will post an update later.
This is my review of the first 3 stories:
*Arabella - K.Z. Riley - 21st Century Cinderella escapes her evil stepmother and -sisters to go to college. Where she meets her prince: a rich soccer hotshot. And they fall in love... Beautiful, sweet and modern version on Cinderella.
*The Hack - Kelsie Rae - An oil princess in shackles and a nobody meet and fall in love. Will they find their HEA, with help from the Genie - a hacker? Interesting and beautiful twist to Aladdin and Jasmine's story.
*Witching Woods - Suzan Lee - Dark story based on a legend, not a fairy tale. Today was a beautiful spring day. I was sitting by myself in the forest. DO NOT read this story when sitting alone in a forest! It is kind of scary! Yes, it is that well written and creepy!
I have decided to already post my review and will post an update later.
This is my review of the first 3 stories:
*Arabella - K.Z. Riley - 21st Century Cinderella escapes her evil stepmother and -sisters to go to college. Where she meets her prince: a rich soccer hotshot. And they fall in love... Beautiful, sweet and modern version on Cinderella.
*The Hack - Kelsie Rae - An oil princess in shackles and a nobody meet and fall in love. Will they find their HEA, with help from the Genie - a hacker? Interesting and beautiful twist to Aladdin and Jasmine's story.
*Witching Woods - Suzan Lee - Dark story based on a legend, not a fairy tale. Today was a beautiful spring day. I was sitting by myself in the forest. DO NOT read this story when sitting alone in a forest! It is kind of scary! Yes, it is that well written and creepy!
March 30, 2019
I will be the first to admit I am a bit of an anthology snob. There are many anthologies that I’ve read that I wouldn’t recommend for anyone. However, DAWN TO DARK is a really good anthology in my opinion because it doesn’t stay in the “safe” realm of stories. DAWN TO DARK takes fairy tales that have been retold time and time again and somehow the authors have given them new elements that I haven’t seen before. I honestly wish this anthology came with full length novels because I felt there were some stories that ended so abruptly but that I wanted, no needed, more from. I will admit though that most of these fairy tales I only know through the Disney films and not the original disturbing tales they were told as originally. Regardless, I believe that DAWN TO DARK has something for everyone.
April 8, 2019
ONE MAD-HATTER COLLECTION!!!
HOLY CRAP! Talk about a cross between fairy tale and nightmare. Man, this is one rollercoaster ride of unexpected circumstances that bring a full range of swirling emotions, forcing them all into play. Contending with all the trials and tribulations, twists and turns, and a few glitches and bumps bring this bad boy bursting alive beautifully. All the drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense increase steadily while tensions spirals. The characters are complex with depth and individualities that pull this little jewel together flawlessly. The scenes are so vividly described it paints one amazing backdrop. Amazing job guys, thanks for sharing this incredible gift with us.
HOLY CRAP! Talk about a cross between fairy tale and nightmare. Man, this is one rollercoaster ride of unexpected circumstances that bring a full range of swirling emotions, forcing them all into play. Contending with all the trials and tribulations, twists and turns, and a few glitches and bumps bring this bad boy bursting alive beautifully. All the drama, uncertainty, danger and suspense increase steadily while tensions spirals. The characters are complex with depth and individualities that pull this little jewel together flawlessly. The scenes are so vividly described it paints one amazing backdrop. Amazing job guys, thanks for sharing this incredible gift with us.
April 11, 2019
The concept of this book sounded really good to me and I wanted to love it but some of these stories were just too similar but with a modern setting or were boring. From Cinderella to Red Riding Hood, this collection of retellings twists the well known fairy tales into something of nightmares and terror.
Arabella – 2*
The hack – 4*
Witching Woods – 3*
Out of the woods – 4*
Part of His World – 3*
Woman in the Ivy Tower – 2*
Moon Bitten – 3*
My favourite story was Out of the Woods which retells the story of Beauty and the Beast. The Woman in the Ivy Tower was the weirdest story I have ever read and do not recommend that one.
Read at your own risk!
* I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy *
Arabella – 2*
The hack – 4*
Witching Woods – 3*
Out of the woods – 4*
Part of His World – 3*
Woman in the Ivy Tower – 2*
Moon Bitten – 3*
My favourite story was Out of the Woods which retells the story of Beauty and the Beast. The Woman in the Ivy Tower was the weirdest story I have ever read and do not recommend that one.
Read at your own risk!
* I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy *
March 23, 2019
Some of the stories are two stars and some are a four at best. It is definitely an interesting take on common fairy tales but The Brothers Grimm is way better. It does make for a quick and interesting read if you have a few hours to kill, though. I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy
Merged review:
Some of the stories are two stars and some are a four at best. It is definitely an interesting take on common fairy tales but The Brothers Grimm is way better. It does make for a quick and interesting read if you have a few hours to kill, though. I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy
Merged review:
Some of the stories are two stars and some are a four at best. It is definitely an interesting take on common fairy tales but The Brothers Grimm is way better. It does make for a quick and interesting read if you have a few hours to kill, though. I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy
April 1, 2019
Fun take on old classics!
This book was a fun take on old classics. There was a real mix of books from fun and sweet Disney style Aladdin, to dark version of Rapunzel. I truly enjoyed some much more than others which I’m sad to say, I did not finish. Due to the range of this book, I went with the middle value. But I do believe that if you don’t enjoy all the stories, you will find yourself enjoying others. And you may find yourself surprised to open your mind to a new and different author you hadn’t read before.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was a fun take on old classics. There was a real mix of books from fun and sweet Disney style Aladdin, to dark version of Rapunzel. I truly enjoyed some much more than others which I’m sad to say, I did not finish. Due to the range of this book, I went with the middle value. But I do believe that if you don’t enjoy all the stories, you will find yourself enjoying others. And you may find yourself surprised to open your mind to a new and different author you hadn’t read before.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 24, 2019
I think this book had a very interesting concept. A dark take on childhood stories. Some of the short stories were definitely written better than the others. I felt like some were rushed and the characters were not fully developed. I understand they were short stories but I felt some had an abrupt ending. I also think each person that reads this will have their own likes and dislikes based upon what stories were their childhood favorites. It is an easy read and a nice way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
March 29, 2019
Dawn to Dark: A Collection of Fairy Tale Retellings has brought together 7 authors with about 475 pages of Dark Fairy Tale short stories. These a new dark twist on the old Fairy Tale that brings new life to some classics. These are short stories that are great when you need a quick fix of a romance. The books you get are as following:
Arabella by R. Z. Riley
The Hack by Kelsie Rae
Witching Woods by Suzan Lee
Out of the Woods by Halston James
Part of His World by Sonya Jesus
Woman in the Ivy Tower by Courtney Shockey
Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees
Arabella by R. Z. Riley
The Hack by Kelsie Rae
Witching Woods by Suzan Lee
Out of the Woods by Halston James
Part of His World by Sonya Jesus
Woman in the Ivy Tower by Courtney Shockey
Moon Bitten by Angharad Thompson Rees
March 30, 2019
This Collection is a very intriguing and darker twist on beloved fairytales. I am a big fan of fairytales and of Disney so I recognized the retelling of most of these seven stories. I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the edgier retellings of classics such as Cinderella and Little Red Riding Hood. The modern spins the authors chose fit the stories and I found myself getting sucked into each one. A well done collection and one that I definitely recommend if you love fairytales with a twist.
April 1, 2019
The Hack is just as magical as the Aladdin we all know and love, but with a modern twist, full of action, passion, humor, and fun! I’ve never been a fan of modernizing fairy tales. I’m one of those people who thinks people should leave well enough alone. However, Kelsie Rae blew this out of the park for me and she did this in less than ten chapters! She never ceases to amaze me with what she can do! I loved every word, every twist! And, I ended up with the Disney songs stuck in my head all day. Kelsie Rae, fantastic job!
April 1, 2019
I didn't particularly enjoy this book. Which was a shame because I was really looking forward to it. I adore fairytales and retellings of the classics. But this wasn't that.
It was merely writing. Some good. Some bad. But not great.
The saving grace was the Aladdin retelling. That one I loved. I didn't like any of the other ones. The premise of the stories themselves were decent. But they needed more editing. There was one story that flipped back and forth between POVs and didn't distinguish them. Another had the pace completely wrong. Yet another just didn't work. At all.
It was merely writing. Some good. Some bad. But not great.
The saving grace was the Aladdin retelling. That one I loved. I didn't like any of the other ones. The premise of the stories themselves were decent. But they needed more editing. There was one story that flipped back and forth between POVs and didn't distinguish them. Another had the pace completely wrong. Yet another just didn't work. At all.
March 27, 2019
All seven of these authors are new to me, which makes Dawn to Dark: A Collection of Fairy Tale Retellings a great price. You get to try them out, all for less than a dollar. Plus, it’s on Kindle Unlimited too.
But, what are these re-tellings like?
Dark and twisted, for sure, but they have their own little quirks, making a unique new story. All seven are short novellas that will take no time to consume.
So be daring and take a chance, grab this anthology and feast your mind.
But, what are these re-tellings like?
Dark and twisted, for sure, but they have their own little quirks, making a unique new story. All seven are short novellas that will take no time to consume.
So be daring and take a chance, grab this anthology and feast your mind.
March 28, 2019
Sorry the first story was so awfully problematic I just couldn't even finish it, the second story was almost word for word the Disney movie Aladdin but with a modern setting, which yet again made it difficult to read, after those two I tried skimming the book but I just didn't have faith in the quality that could be found within.
I rarely DNF a book choosing to put it aside instead of abandoning it completely but there was a diamond in this rough.
I rarely DNF a book choosing to put it aside instead of abandoning it completely but there was a diamond in this rough.
March 31, 2019
I have to give this collection 5 stars! I have not read any of these authors before but these retelling of seven fairy tales was truly enjoyable to read. Each one very different some are a little dark and some are sweet but all of them are entertaining. Pick up this book and get lost in the fairy tales you thought you knew.-Carolyn for Book Haven Book Blog
March 25, 2019
Some of the tales in this book are rushed to their end like the author just realised they only had 1k left to use. Some of the stories are simply contemporary versions of the originals, throw in a cell phone and that's about it. They vary between clean and warm levels of erotic detail. Overall the book was entertaining, but the stories weren't memorable or particularly dark.
March 29, 2019
Dawn to Dark is a collection of seven modern retellings of fairy tales more to the Brother's Grimm style of storytelling. They are all short and I really enjoyed them. Though some were better written and translated than the others they all had their own special something. I'll keep these authors in my sights to see what other wonders they come up with. Recommend for the quick reads.
March 30, 2019
**CRAZY CAJUN BOOK ADDICTS BLOG**
A lovely collection of short stories that I absolutely devoured I loved each and every one of them but Arabella was my favourite story I'm so glad she got her happy ever after :) but they're all heartwarming books with alot of passion written in them.
I highly recommend these if your wanting some nice short stories or even for a younger adults to read.
A lovely collection of short stories that I absolutely devoured I loved each and every one of them but Arabella was my favourite story I'm so glad she got her happy ever after :) but they're all heartwarming books with alot of passion written in them.
I highly recommend these if your wanting some nice short stories or even for a younger adults to read.
March 31, 2019
Fun take on classics
I had the pleasure of reading The Hack and it was a fun take on Aladdin. Character names were the same and the story was similar with some fun changes. I loved it! Disney is my jam and I love to see new tales on existing stories!!!!
Kelsie Rae did a great job :). I will get to the others and I am sure they are all just as good.
I had the pleasure of reading The Hack and it was a fun take on Aladdin. Character names were the same and the story was similar with some fun changes. I loved it! Disney is my jam and I love to see new tales on existing stories!!!!
Kelsie Rae did a great job :). I will get to the others and I am sure they are all just as good.
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