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Finding Ever After: four fairytale-ish novellas
Experience a touch of magic with these four fairytale-ish novellas that span over one hundred years. Linked by an illustrated book of fairytales, each novella is an enchanting combination of a beloved classic sprinkled with the author’s own brand of fairy dust.
Stairs and Stardust is set in 1913 Asheville, NC at the beautiful Biltmore Estate and includes a budding children’s book illustrator, an out-of-the box heir, and a teensy bit of Cinderella romance.
Entanglements has a Rapunzel twist and is set in 1920’s Boston between a reluctant heiress, a charming piano tuner, and a game of chess.
Twice Upon A Time is a Beauty-And-The-Beast inspired tale that brings a romance novelist back home to her family's pecan farm... and the ex-fiance she left behind.
Once Bitten is a nod to Snow White that includes a fake date with a handsome woodsman, seven geeks, and the world's best apple tarts.
Stairs and Stardust is set in 1913 Asheville, NC at the beautiful Biltmore Estate and includes a budding children’s book illustrator, an out-of-the box heir, and a teensy bit of Cinderella romance.
Entanglements has a Rapunzel twist and is set in 1920’s Boston between a reluctant heiress, a charming piano tuner, and a game of chess.
Twice Upon A Time is a Beauty-And-The-Beast inspired tale that brings a romance novelist back home to her family's pecan farm... and the ex-fiance she left behind.
Once Bitten is a nod to Snow White that includes a fake date with a handsome woodsman, seven geeks, and the world's best apple tarts.
473 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2019
76 people are currently reading
484 people want to read
About the author
Pepper Basham
41 books2,910 followersPepper D Basham has been telling tales ever since she was a little girl. When her grandmother called her a “writer” at the age of ten, Pepper took it as gospel and has enjoyed various types of writing styles ever since. A native of the Blue Ridge Mountains, mom of five, speech-language pathologist, and lover of chocolate, Pepper enjoys sprinkling her native Appalachian culture into her fiction wherever she can. She currently resides in the lovely mountains of the New River Valley in Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 8, 2019
This collection of four novellas aims to retell four different fairy tales by the Grimms and Perrault united through the common theme of an illustrated book of fairy tales and its fate over a hundred years, from 1913 to our present day.
As is to be expected, the stories vary in the degree they achieve the desired end product, as not all do the job of retelling the originals as successfully.
BETWEEN STAIRS AND STARDUST by Pepper Basham
5 stars
A retelling of Cinderella with one of the most original settings I've seen: the grand estate of Biltmore belonging to the Vanderbilts that's in the North Carolina countryside. The plotline is sweet, telling the story of a down-on-her-luck painter and illustrator hiding in Asheville for a while to escape the false rumours following her like a dark cloud and that paint her as a golddigging seductress out to ensnare a rich husband. Under the patronage of Mrs Vanderbilt, she sets out to illustrate an exclusive edition of fairy tales entitled like this anthology, Finding Ever After, and in the process she accidentally meets her Prince Charming, whose sister she saves from drowning. Problem is, he's a rich gentleman, and her unearned reputation will threaten to ruin their budding friendship.
To me, this was the best story in the collection, the better written and the better plotted, not to mention the one that most closely adhered to the original fairy tale's themes and outline. In general, these rich vs poor romances set in past times have the problem of credibility, which is avoided here through the family dynamics and the position of the man in the order of birth (he's not the heir, ergo the parents are more inclined to be lenient) plus the respectability of the girl's family. I liked how the author dealt with the godmother element through a powerful patroness instead of something magical or pure coincidence. And I think that, given the theme that links all the novellas, if this anthology had been illustrated, it'd have been perfect.
ENTANGLEMENTS by Rachel McMillan
5 stars
This one retells Rapunzel in 1920s Boston, and like the previous story, it has a wealth-gap romance as its main plotline. Playing the role of the evil witch that imprisons the girl in the tower, we have the girl's greedy businessman father, who sells her out in marriage to a greedier business partner that doesn't take too long to show his true colours and starts first to dismiss the girl's interests and finally to abuse her. Trying to attain her life's dream of singing a concert recital of classical music songs before she bids goodbye to her dreans to marry Mr Rich Chap, she seeks a piano partner to rehearse with, finding him in the form of math teacher plus piano tuner Nic Ricci.
In this story, significant historical events such as the Molasses flood disaster and Prohibition play a part in moving the plot forward. No magic makes its appearance here, making it clear that the retellings will all be realistic and not fantasy; sometimes that may make you have to work to spot the story's beats because, whilst this one does incorporate elements from the tale, it doesn't so that closely as to be recognisable straight away as a retelling.
TWICE UPON A TIME by Ashley Clark
1 star
I'm sorry, was this supposed to retell Beauty and the Beast as the mini-blurb claims? Because it definitely falls short of the goal. A stereotypical and cliché-filled Second Chance Romance it sure is, a Beauty and the Beast retelling it sure isn't.
And that's what I find most annoying: when I'm sold a retelling of a fairy tale, I expect exactly that and not your average contemporary romance masquerading as one, and as a connoisseur of the fairy tale I definitely don't appreciate the attempt to sell it to me as a retelling by throwing in some irrelevant decoration, such as the roses, and hoping that'll be enough for it to qualify for and be identified as a B&B retelling. Do you really think that the roses are what make the tale identifiable? I feel insulted by the implication here. A proper retelling of this tale must follow the core theme, which is missing here. Where's the theme to be found in a story of two past lovers reconnecting years after their breakup and finding out there's still embers in the fireplace? And one's your typical handsome and she's your typical pretty, too. No, this isn't a retelling in any way whatsoever, and whilst I could've given it one star or so as purely a mainstream romance, I don't think it's earned it given its placement and promotion as a retelling.
ONCE BITTEN by Betsy St. Amant Haddox
4 stars
It could be said that, in some ways, this story is also leaning towards a typical romance plot than a proper retelling of Snow White, if not for the fact that this novella does keep the core theme of the fairy tale and not merely throw in some obvious elements as window dressing. It's charming and funny, and has a small twist on the Evil Stepmother that I appreciated. The seven nerds in place of the seven dwarfs, and the apple tart contest for the poisoned apple incident were nice touches as well, and there was the detail that the Snow White figure, Maggie, isn't your expected kind of girl that'd usually fill in that role.
Overall, it's a good collection. I do still think an illustrated version would've been great, even if costly. Maybe in the future they can make a limited edition with illustrations? Not that I needed them to visualise the illustrations Stella Emory was making for the fictional book of tales, because I love illustrations myself and could easily call to mind some of my own favourites to imagine how Stella's would look like. Still, I'm growing fond of the idea, and because the opening stories were strong, I'm rounding up the average for the whole anthology to 4 stars.
As is to be expected, the stories vary in the degree they achieve the desired end product, as not all do the job of retelling the originals as successfully.
BETWEEN STAIRS AND STARDUST by Pepper Basham
5 stars
A retelling of Cinderella with one of the most original settings I've seen: the grand estate of Biltmore belonging to the Vanderbilts that's in the North Carolina countryside. The plotline is sweet, telling the story of a down-on-her-luck painter and illustrator hiding in Asheville for a while to escape the false rumours following her like a dark cloud and that paint her as a golddigging seductress out to ensnare a rich husband. Under the patronage of Mrs Vanderbilt, she sets out to illustrate an exclusive edition of fairy tales entitled like this anthology, Finding Ever After, and in the process she accidentally meets her Prince Charming, whose sister she saves from drowning. Problem is, he's a rich gentleman, and her unearned reputation will threaten to ruin their budding friendship.
To me, this was the best story in the collection, the better written and the better plotted, not to mention the one that most closely adhered to the original fairy tale's themes and outline. In general, these rich vs poor romances set in past times have the problem of credibility, which is avoided here through the family dynamics and the position of the man in the order of birth (he's not the heir, ergo the parents are more inclined to be lenient) plus the respectability of the girl's family. I liked how the author dealt with the godmother element through a powerful patroness instead of something magical or pure coincidence. And I think that, given the theme that links all the novellas, if this anthology had been illustrated, it'd have been perfect.
ENTANGLEMENTS by Rachel McMillan
5 stars
This one retells Rapunzel in 1920s Boston, and like the previous story, it has a wealth-gap romance as its main plotline. Playing the role of the evil witch that imprisons the girl in the tower, we have the girl's greedy businessman father, who sells her out in marriage to a greedier business partner that doesn't take too long to show his true colours and starts first to dismiss the girl's interests and finally to abuse her. Trying to attain her life's dream of singing a concert recital of classical music songs before she bids goodbye to her dreans to marry Mr Rich Chap, she seeks a piano partner to rehearse with, finding him in the form of math teacher plus piano tuner Nic Ricci.
In this story, significant historical events such as the Molasses flood disaster and Prohibition play a part in moving the plot forward. No magic makes its appearance here, making it clear that the retellings will all be realistic and not fantasy; sometimes that may make you have to work to spot the story's beats because, whilst this one does incorporate elements from the tale, it doesn't so that closely as to be recognisable straight away as a retelling.
TWICE UPON A TIME by Ashley Clark
1 star
I'm sorry, was this supposed to retell Beauty and the Beast as the mini-blurb claims? Because it definitely falls short of the goal. A stereotypical and cliché-filled Second Chance Romance it sure is, a Beauty and the Beast retelling it sure isn't.
And that's what I find most annoying: when I'm sold a retelling of a fairy tale, I expect exactly that and not your average contemporary romance masquerading as one, and as a connoisseur of the fairy tale I definitely don't appreciate the attempt to sell it to me as a retelling by throwing in some irrelevant decoration, such as the roses, and hoping that'll be enough for it to qualify for and be identified as a B&B retelling. Do you really think that the roses are what make the tale identifiable? I feel insulted by the implication here. A proper retelling of this tale must follow the core theme, which is missing here. Where's the theme to be found in a story of two past lovers reconnecting years after their breakup and finding out there's still embers in the fireplace? And one's your typical handsome and she's your typical pretty, too. No, this isn't a retelling in any way whatsoever, and whilst I could've given it one star or so as purely a mainstream romance, I don't think it's earned it given its placement and promotion as a retelling.
ONCE BITTEN by Betsy St. Amant Haddox
4 stars
It could be said that, in some ways, this story is also leaning towards a typical romance plot than a proper retelling of Snow White, if not for the fact that this novella does keep the core theme of the fairy tale and not merely throw in some obvious elements as window dressing. It's charming and funny, and has a small twist on the Evil Stepmother that I appreciated. The seven nerds in place of the seven dwarfs, and the apple tart contest for the poisoned apple incident were nice touches as well, and there was the detail that the Snow White figure, Maggie, isn't your expected kind of girl that'd usually fill in that role.
Overall, it's a good collection. I do still think an illustrated version would've been great, even if costly. Maybe in the future they can make a limited edition with illustrations? Not that I needed them to visualise the illustrations Stella Emory was making for the fictional book of tales, because I love illustrations myself and could easily call to mind some of my own favourites to imagine how Stella's would look like. Still, I'm growing fond of the idea, and because the opening stories were strong, I'm rounding up the average for the whole anthology to 4 stars.
February 27, 2019
Wonderful! Loved each of these unique yet connected novellas.
March 1, 2019
I will admit: I'm not a huge fan of novellas. But every once in a while, a collection sneaks up on me that completely charms me. Finding Ever After was just such a collection and more. Who doesn't love a fairy tale or a story with quirky and lovely fairy tale elements? A collection that spans nearly 100 years, fans of historical and contemporary fiction alike will enjoy these 4 novellas. Each story claims their own fairy tale flavor with a common story book to bind them all together that is passed down from generation to generation. Each novella, in their own right, was delightful, charming, romantic and fun. Mixing just the right amount of humor, love and happily ever after. Rarely do you come across a collection of stories that compliment and yet stand alone, creating a collection that was rich and enjoyable from page 1 to the last. I would not hesitate to recommend and encourage the reading of this collection. I think you just might fall in love with love all over again, just like I did.
February 14, 2019
Review for Between Stairs and Stardust
Faith and fairy-tales
What???? A hero who can’t swim? Aren’t they supposed to be full of amazing powers to do anything, be anything and otherwise just be perfect? Fortunately for me, this author knows that characters with flaws touch our hearts more than those who are perfect. And while James was certainly lovable, he was imperfect enough to make him realistic and endearing.
With a rich palate of expertly blended words, Pepper Basham’s Between Stairs and Stardust is a lovely masterpiece of thoughts and emotions. It’s no secret that Pepper Basham’s books make my heart happy. Just the process of creating images from my favorite quotes has me smiling and tearing up.
While I have heard it said that the fact we like to create is because we were made in the image of our creator, God, the ways in which this was expressed here was . . . well, magical! Anyone who has thought or heard that fiction is a waste of time or that it sets us longing for what we can’t have should read this book and hear the eloquent way in which the author expresses her thoughts regarding imagination aiding our faith.
Stella’s non-traditional manner of telling young Alice the story of Cinderella was delightful! Alice had never heard a fairy-tale before and her reaction and the ensuing discussion was such fun. The layering of the story within the story and how well they blended together was enchanting.
Lest you fear that the story is predictable and follows the fairy-tale too closely, it doesn’t. And lest you fear that the heroine is a weak female, she isn’t. And lest you fear you won’t enjoy the story – well, speaking for myself I loved it!
Between Stairs and Stardust is currently part of the Finding Ever After compilation, in which the stories are linked together through the fairy-tale book Stella illustrated. This collection spans one hundred years or so through the four stories. Keep an eye out for Between Stairs and Stardust’s release as a stand-alone paperback and an e-book. I will review the other stories in the collection in a separate post as well.
May you read happily ever after!
While I have heard it said that the fact we like to create is because we were made in the image of our creator, God, the ways in which this was expressed here was . . . well, magical! Anyone who has thought or heard that fiction is a waste of time or that it sets us longing for what we can’t have should read this book and hear the eloquent way in which the author expresses her thoughts regarding imagination aiding our faith.
Stella’s non-traditional manner of telling young Alice the story of Cinderella was delightful! Alice had never heard a fairy-tale before and her reaction and the ensuing discussion was such fun. The layering of the story within the story and how well they blended together was enchanting.
Read my full review with a Preview at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
Faith and fairy-tales
What???? A hero who can’t swim? Aren’t they supposed to be full of amazing powers to do anything, be anything and otherwise just be perfect? Fortunately for me, this author knows that characters with flaws touch our hearts more than those who are perfect. And while James was certainly lovable, he was imperfect enough to make him realistic and endearing.
With a rich palate of expertly blended words, Pepper Basham’s Between Stairs and Stardust is a lovely masterpiece of thoughts and emotions. It’s no secret that Pepper Basham’s books make my heart happy. Just the process of creating images from my favorite quotes has me smiling and tearing up.
While I have heard it said that the fact we like to create is because we were made in the image of our creator, God, the ways in which this was expressed here was . . . well, magical! Anyone who has thought or heard that fiction is a waste of time or that it sets us longing for what we can’t have should read this book and hear the eloquent way in which the author expresses her thoughts regarding imagination aiding our faith.
Stella’s non-traditional manner of telling young Alice the story of Cinderella was delightful! Alice had never heard a fairy-tale before and her reaction and the ensuing discussion was such fun. The layering of the story within the story and how well they blended together was enchanting.
Lest you fear that the story is predictable and follows the fairy-tale too closely, it doesn’t. And lest you fear that the heroine is a weak female, she isn’t. And lest you fear you won’t enjoy the story – well, speaking for myself I loved it!
Between Stairs and Stardust is currently part of the Finding Ever After compilation, in which the stories are linked together through the fairy-tale book Stella illustrated. This collection spans one hundred years or so through the four stories. Keep an eye out for Between Stairs and Stardust’s release as a stand-alone paperback and an e-book. I will review the other stories in the collection in a separate post as well.
May you read happily ever after!
While I have heard it said that the fact we like to create is because we were made in the image of our creator, God, the ways in which this was expressed here was . . . well, magical! Anyone who has thought or heard that fiction is a waste of time or that it sets us longing for what we can’t have should read this book and hear the eloquent way in which the author expresses her thoughts regarding imagination aiding our faith.
Stella’s non-traditional manner of telling young Alice the story of Cinderella was delightful! Alice had never heard a fairy-tale before and her reaction and the ensuing discussion was such fun. The layering of the story within the story and how well they blended together was enchanting.
Read my full review with a Preview at Among the Reads
I was given a copy of this book. I was not required to give a favorable review nor was any money received for this review. All comments and opinions are my own.
March 3, 2019
Full review on FaithfullyBookish.com
These stories are everything we love about fairytales... sprinkled with just enough reality to make them genuinely tempting.
Between Stairs and Stardust achieves a depth and complexity not often found in a novella. Basham skillfully fits each intricacy of the plot into place at just the right time as if she's effortlessly painting the story in Bob Ross fashion, a soothing every anxiety as a happy accident.
McMillan is an intelligent and passionate storyteller and her characters reflect that vibrancy and richness. Nic is an irresistible hero, hard-working, brilliantly talented, unwaveringly loyal. Esther removes hairpins one by one in an unforgettable scene worthy of repetitious reading indulgence!
Clark takes readers home to a rural small town and authentically relates a few well-known joys and struggles common to these tight-knit communities. Emma and Sawyer put a solid frienemies spin on the Twice Upon a Time childhood friends romance trope, sparks are definitely flying!
Once Bitten receives automatic bonus points for acing the mountain man hero. Griff's quasi-stoic demeanor is the perfect contrast for bookish, insecure Maggie. St. Amant's delightful sense of humor and sweetness soften the classically villainous bent of the stepmother with a thoughtful perspective shift.
Perhaps those wishes our hearts make aren't so impossible to grasp after all! I highly recommend this collection!
I borrowed an ebook copy of this collection through a paid subscription service. The opinions expressed are my own.
These stories are everything we love about fairytales... sprinkled with just enough reality to make them genuinely tempting.
Between Stairs and Stardust achieves a depth and complexity not often found in a novella. Basham skillfully fits each intricacy of the plot into place at just the right time as if she's effortlessly painting the story in Bob Ross fashion, a soothing every anxiety as a happy accident.
McMillan is an intelligent and passionate storyteller and her characters reflect that vibrancy and richness. Nic is an irresistible hero, hard-working, brilliantly talented, unwaveringly loyal. Esther removes hairpins one by one in an unforgettable scene worthy of repetitious reading indulgence!
Clark takes readers home to a rural small town and authentically relates a few well-known joys and struggles common to these tight-knit communities. Emma and Sawyer put a solid frienemies spin on the Twice Upon a Time childhood friends romance trope, sparks are definitely flying!
Once Bitten receives automatic bonus points for acing the mountain man hero. Griff's quasi-stoic demeanor is the perfect contrast for bookish, insecure Maggie. St. Amant's delightful sense of humor and sweetness soften the classically villainous bent of the stepmother with a thoughtful perspective shift.
Perhaps those wishes our hearts make aren't so impossible to grasp after all! I highly recommend this collection!
I borrowed an ebook copy of this collection through a paid subscription service. The opinions expressed are my own.
April 18, 2019
Finding Ever After is a unique collection of four novellas by four great authors. The common thread is a beautifully illustrated book of fairytales with handwritten annotations.
Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham is a “charming” fairytale- like meeting of Stella and James at the Biltmore Mansion belonging to the Vanderbilts. Each chapter’s title is a charm from Stella’s bracelet depicting Cinderella.
Such a great story set in the Golden Age in a romantic setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Entanglements by Rachel McMillan .
This one had overtones of Rapunzel in Boston of 1920. There are fairy godmothers disguised as friends of Esther’s mother. They arrange for Esther to further her love of singing and hope to have her meet someone who loves the arts and chess as much as she does. Look for a very unique chess game!
Twice Upon a Time by Ashley Clark is a modern fairytale.
A pecan orchard is the setting and the hero has a sneaky way to win Emma’s heart A little fairytale book found at the Wistful Teacup Bookshop plays a part. Is it magic?
Twice Bitten by Betsy St. Amant is a modern tale with overt references to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs— who are seven geeky friends of Maggie Craft. The Prince shows up in handyman Griff Massey. This one had me laughing so many times as I caught the modern day portrayals of this most loved fairytale. Ms Amant has a lovely sense of humor and a great way with words. And are the stepsister and stepmother really mean or do they want the best for Maggie?
These four fairytale adaptations were so cute. It makes me want to find the magical book that ties them all together. This was a fantastic idea for a novella collection by some of my favorite authors.
Fun four times over!
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham is a “charming” fairytale- like meeting of Stella and James at the Biltmore Mansion belonging to the Vanderbilts. Each chapter’s title is a charm from Stella’s bracelet depicting Cinderella.
Such a great story set in the Golden Age in a romantic setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Entanglements by Rachel McMillan .
This one had overtones of Rapunzel in Boston of 1920. There are fairy godmothers disguised as friends of Esther’s mother. They arrange for Esther to further her love of singing and hope to have her meet someone who loves the arts and chess as much as she does. Look for a very unique chess game!
Twice Upon a Time by Ashley Clark is a modern fairytale.
A pecan orchard is the setting and the hero has a sneaky way to win Emma’s heart A little fairytale book found at the Wistful Teacup Bookshop plays a part. Is it magic?
Twice Bitten by Betsy St. Amant is a modern tale with overt references to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs— who are seven geeky friends of Maggie Craft. The Prince shows up in handyman Griff Massey. This one had me laughing so many times as I caught the modern day portrayals of this most loved fairytale. Ms Amant has a lovely sense of humor and a great way with words. And are the stepsister and stepmother really mean or do they want the best for Maggie?
These four fairytale adaptations were so cute. It makes me want to find the magical book that ties them all together. This was a fantastic idea for a novella collection by some of my favorite authors.
Fun four times over!
*I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
May 27, 2019
Just LOVE this collection!
All four stories capture the imagination and pull at the heart. Connected through one beautifully illustrated fairy tale book, these novellas allude to their fairytale inspirations but tell wholly new stories in unique ways. Highly recommend!
All four stories capture the imagination and pull at the heart. Connected through one beautifully illustrated fairy tale book, these novellas allude to their fairytale inspirations but tell wholly new stories in unique ways. Highly recommend!
February 23, 2019
This was such a fun collection of novellas—all very different in setting and tone, yet complementing one another nicely. I loved that the authors didn’t try to retell fairytales, but instead drew on themes and elements of the plots and incorporated them in creative ways. And tying each of the novellas together is a book of fairytales titled, not surprisingly, “Finding Ever After.”
Between Stairs and Stardust
Stella Emory has come to Biltmore to try and keep a low profile while her benefactress gathers evidence to refute a false accusation brought against her. Her plans go a little awry when she rescues a young girl who’s fallen into the lake on the beautiful Biltmore Estate. Suddenly she’s meeting regularly with the young girl and her tree-loving older brother to tell fairytales and spark their imaginations. And perhaps beginning to hope for her own happily-ever-after—until she discovers James isn’t the humble gardener she thought he was, and her past catches up with her and threatens to shatter the fairytale.
This story is full of charm, whimsical wit, and some wonderful reminders about the beauty of imagination. Pepper Basham has a wonderful way of drawing her characters’ hearts together, and James and Stella drew my own heart in from the very first page. Such an enjoyable read!
Entanglements
Esther Hunnisett is engaged to be married to man who is a terrible chess player and hasn’t the sense to recognise that the Bach/Gounod version of Ave Maria is superior to the Schubert (which is totally true, by the way). He’s giving her one last opportunity to perform a recital to “get her little dream out of her system” (his words) before she’s married and whisked away to a “congregation of cows in upstate Massachusetts” (not his words). But then maths teacher and piano tuner Nic Ricci is hired as her rehearsal accompanist. And he just happens to be looking for a girl who can string Mozart and chess into the same sentence…
This novella was deliciously romantic, and I absolutely adored the passionately intelligent Esther and the quietly intelligent Nic. In fact, a high percentage of Rachel McMillan’s characters are numbered among my all-time favourites, and Esther and Nic just got added to the list. I’m not sure you really need any further justification to read this book, but in case you do, the story is entrancing and I love the way chess figured into the solution for freeing Esther from her entanglement.
Twice Upon a Time
Is there any creature more beastly than an ex-fiance who leaves you without a word? How about an ex-fiance who leaves college—and you—without a word and returns to YOUR family to help them run the farm YOU were supposed to inherit upon your marriage to said ex-fiance? Emma Jane Bailey can’t think of one, and now that the farm is hers to sell—in spite of her single status—she’s not going to let Sawyer Hammonds get his hands on it. Well, except for when he’s helping to fix up the house free of charge, like he offered. And when he’s pruning the pecan trees. And . . . well, maybe this is going to be a little more complicated than Emma thought.
Emma’s fighting a losing battle from the moment Sawyer walks onto the page. Notwithstanding that his decision to leave Emma without any explanation wasn’t his brightest moment, he’s hardworking, dependable, and more than a little bit charming. Pretty difficult not to like! I particularly like the way this novella took the theme of restoration from Beauty and the Beast—of seeing the potential beneath the surface not just with her relationship with Sawyer but also with the farm she’s determined to sell.
Once Bitten
Maggie Craft thought she was going to avoid the annual winter cabin get-away with her stepmother and stepsister this year. No constant reminders of all the ways she never measures up to their standards of perfection, no pointed remarks about her continuing single status. But alas, she receives the dreaded invitation—and rashly says she’ll be bringing a plus one before she can think better of it. Surely, out of seven geeky book-club guys and a handsome handyman, she can come up with a date for the weekend, even if she has to bribe them with her famous apple tarts.
You know what one of my favourite things was about this novella? Griff “didn’t feel that zing of attraction” for Maggie in the beginning. She was “someone you wanted to be near and enjoyed,” but “more like a comfortable quilt.” His attraction to Maggie only developed as he spent time with her and got to know her, and that doesn’t happen often enough in romance novels if you ask me. But Griff’s also got a little secret of his own that complicates things, particularly once their faux relationship doesn’t seem quite so faux after all.
This novella was a great combination of sweet and sassy, funny and sincere, and often made me think I knew what was coming only to do something completely different—and better—at the last minute. I loved that too. In fact, I loved the whole thing.
I received a copy of this collection from the authors. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Between Stairs and Stardust
Stella Emory has come to Biltmore to try and keep a low profile while her benefactress gathers evidence to refute a false accusation brought against her. Her plans go a little awry when she rescues a young girl who’s fallen into the lake on the beautiful Biltmore Estate. Suddenly she’s meeting regularly with the young girl and her tree-loving older brother to tell fairytales and spark their imaginations. And perhaps beginning to hope for her own happily-ever-after—until she discovers James isn’t the humble gardener she thought he was, and her past catches up with her and threatens to shatter the fairytale.
This story is full of charm, whimsical wit, and some wonderful reminders about the beauty of imagination. Pepper Basham has a wonderful way of drawing her characters’ hearts together, and James and Stella drew my own heart in from the very first page. Such an enjoyable read!
Entanglements
Esther Hunnisett is engaged to be married to man who is a terrible chess player and hasn’t the sense to recognise that the Bach/Gounod version of Ave Maria is superior to the Schubert (which is totally true, by the way). He’s giving her one last opportunity to perform a recital to “get her little dream out of her system” (his words) before she’s married and whisked away to a “congregation of cows in upstate Massachusetts” (not his words). But then maths teacher and piano tuner Nic Ricci is hired as her rehearsal accompanist. And he just happens to be looking for a girl who can string Mozart and chess into the same sentence…
This novella was deliciously romantic, and I absolutely adored the passionately intelligent Esther and the quietly intelligent Nic. In fact, a high percentage of Rachel McMillan’s characters are numbered among my all-time favourites, and Esther and Nic just got added to the list. I’m not sure you really need any further justification to read this book, but in case you do, the story is entrancing and I love the way chess figured into the solution for freeing Esther from her entanglement.
Twice Upon a Time
Is there any creature more beastly than an ex-fiance who leaves you without a word? How about an ex-fiance who leaves college—and you—without a word and returns to YOUR family to help them run the farm YOU were supposed to inherit upon your marriage to said ex-fiance? Emma Jane Bailey can’t think of one, and now that the farm is hers to sell—in spite of her single status—she’s not going to let Sawyer Hammonds get his hands on it. Well, except for when he’s helping to fix up the house free of charge, like he offered. And when he’s pruning the pecan trees. And . . . well, maybe this is going to be a little more complicated than Emma thought.
Emma’s fighting a losing battle from the moment Sawyer walks onto the page. Notwithstanding that his decision to leave Emma without any explanation wasn’t his brightest moment, he’s hardworking, dependable, and more than a little bit charming. Pretty difficult not to like! I particularly like the way this novella took the theme of restoration from Beauty and the Beast—of seeing the potential beneath the surface not just with her relationship with Sawyer but also with the farm she’s determined to sell.
Once Bitten
Maggie Craft thought she was going to avoid the annual winter cabin get-away with her stepmother and stepsister this year. No constant reminders of all the ways she never measures up to their standards of perfection, no pointed remarks about her continuing single status. But alas, she receives the dreaded invitation—and rashly says she’ll be bringing a plus one before she can think better of it. Surely, out of seven geeky book-club guys and a handsome handyman, she can come up with a date for the weekend, even if she has to bribe them with her famous apple tarts.
You know what one of my favourite things was about this novella? Griff “didn’t feel that zing of attraction” for Maggie in the beginning. She was “someone you wanted to be near and enjoyed,” but “more like a comfortable quilt.” His attraction to Maggie only developed as he spent time with her and got to know her, and that doesn’t happen often enough in romance novels if you ask me. But Griff’s also got a little secret of his own that complicates things, particularly once their faux relationship doesn’t seem quite so faux after all.
This novella was a great combination of sweet and sassy, funny and sincere, and often made me think I knew what was coming only to do something completely different—and better—at the last minute. I loved that too. In fact, I loved the whole thing.
I received a copy of this collection from the authors. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
March 1, 2019
Finding Ever After is a delightful collection of four different fairy-tale based novellas written by four authors. Each of the stories has a unique setting and flavor. The first, Between Stairs and Stardust, by Pepper Basham is set in 1913 at the Biltmore estate and has a Cinderella flavor. Basham’s signature charm and wit shine in this sparkly, fun story. Entanglements by Rachel McMillan is set in the 1920s in Boston and sports a Rapunzel theme. McMillan’s characters are captivating and romantic, and I enjoyed their interaction. Twice Upon a Time takes us to a pecan farm in Alabama where Sawyer and Emma battle it out over the future of the farm. How can Emma resist Sawyer when he insists on helping her to fix up her farm? Once Bitten pokes around the Snow White theme but with seven geeks and a handsome handyman. What could possibly go wrong? I love the clever apple tarts reference and the sweet romantic development. All in all, this is a sweet, clean collection of enchanting stories. I loved the variety and the creative ideas.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2019
Finding Ever After was a completely charming collection of fairy tale inspired stories! I loved novella collections featuring multiple authors because there is a little something for every reader! This collection includes two historical novellas and two modern day! They were each unique, but were connected by a common thread and I really enjoyed the small connection between these stories! Finding Ever After will undoubtedly leave you with all the warm and fuzzy feels! I absolutely love happily ever afters and this collection delivered beautifully!
February 26, 2019
Stella is an artist. She has come to the Biltmore house to hideout. It’s near her Granny’s home also. She rescues a young girl from drowning and so the adventure begins. James is Alice’s older brother, yet Stella thinks he’s a gardener. She introduces herself as Faye, to keep her identity secret, because she is waiting for her name to be cleared from scandal. As the days and week pass, she meets with Alice and James reading fairy tales to Alice. She becomes drawn to James and he to her. But he’s not a simple gardener as she thinks and the scandal she sought to escape may have found her. The beautiful backdrop of the Biltmore is a beautiful setting for a story. And the addition of Stella’s Granny in the mountains is a delight. Faced with a choice Stella must choose. But you need to read it to know those choices! Always a delight to read a Pepper Basham book.
The next novella was written by Rachel McMillan. Esther is engaged to a brute of a man. She loves music and chess. He pretends to tolerate the music and gives her one more opportunity before they marry for a concert. She is connected to a rehearsal pianist by a local friend. Nic is a teacher, son, piano tuner just all around good guy. He happens to love chess also. And so begins their story of singing and him playing. A friendship forms supervised of course. But always in the background is her engagement to her brute of a fiancé. How will life play out for the three of them?
Author Ashley Clark pens the tale Twice Upon A Time. This was a fun book to read. I was smiling a lot through out it. Emma and Sawyer were such fun characters and the Southern setting was like going to visit home. Sparks flew from page one and didn’t stop. There’s much more restoration going on here aside from just the farmhouse!
The next novella was written by Rachel McMillan. Esther is engaged to a brute of a man. She loves music and chess. He pretends to tolerate the music and gives her one more opportunity before they marry for a concert. She is connected to a rehearsal pianist by a local friend. Nic is a teacher, son, piano tuner just all around good guy. He happens to love chess also. And so begins their story of singing and him playing. A friendship forms supervised of course. But always in the background is her engagement to her brute of a fiancé. How will life play out for the three of them?
Author Ashley Clark pens the tale Twice Upon A Time. This was a fun book to read. I was smiling a lot through out it. Emma and Sawyer were such fun characters and the Southern setting was like going to visit home. Sparks flew from page one and didn’t stop. There’s much more restoration going on here aside from just the farmhouse!
February 18, 2019
C S Lewis once wrote, “Someday you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again."
Today is that day and this is the book! Four romantic tales by well established Christian authors, all loosely based on one of four fairy tales. Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Rapunzel and Snow White are recreated in four clever and engaging stories. And given that they’re novellas they’re not short on length either.
I enjoyed all four and would highly recommend this for anyone who remembers enjoying the original stories!
Today is that day and this is the book! Four romantic tales by well established Christian authors, all loosely based on one of four fairy tales. Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Rapunzel and Snow White are recreated in four clever and engaging stories. And given that they’re novellas they’re not short on length either.
I enjoyed all four and would highly recommend this for anyone who remembers enjoying the original stories!
February 23, 2019
In this novella collection, four authors take aspects from fairy tales and sprinkle them into their stories to create new happily-ever-afters for their characters.
From the 1913 Blue Ridge Mountains and the Biltmore Estate to Boston in the 1920s to a modern-day pecan farm in Alabama and back to the North Carolina mountains—this time the Smoky Mountains, readers are treated to four romances to savor and cherish.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
From the 1913 Blue Ridge Mountains and the Biltmore Estate to Boston in the 1920s to a modern-day pecan farm in Alabama and back to the North Carolina mountains—this time the Smoky Mountains, readers are treated to four romances to savor and cherish.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
September 20, 2019
I loved this book: 4 stories loosely based on the fairy tales we all were raised on. In the first one, Stella is an artist and llustrator, and she’s working on a book of fairy tales for her benefactress to give to her goddaughter. And in each of the subsequent stories, taking place in the next 100 years, that same book plays a large part. The stories were by 4 different authors who did a beautiful job tying them all together.
June 4, 2019
Loved these stories!
What fun and sweet stories! I truly enjoyed getting to know each of the "princess" characters and read about their happily ever afters.
My one complaint would be with the editing - definitely need a good editor to go through and fix all the mistakes. Other than that, the stories were magical!
What fun and sweet stories! I truly enjoyed getting to know each of the "princess" characters and read about their happily ever afters.
My one complaint would be with the editing - definitely need a good editor to go through and fix all the mistakes. Other than that, the stories were magical!
January 2, 2020
Four short and sweet fairy tale romance stories
Each one of these tales is charming and delightful.
I normally prefer full-length stories, over novellas. Primarily because novellas are over way too soon!
In spite of that, I found this book to be a fun and easy read.
The heroines and heroes captivated my attention.
Each one of these tales is charming and delightful.
I normally prefer full-length stories, over novellas. Primarily because novellas are over way too soon!
In spite of that, I found this book to be a fun and easy read.
The heroines and heroes captivated my attention.
July 11, 2019
Such a fun book. I loved the concept of one book uniting four love stories and seeing the parallels to traditional fairy stories. Each author had a clear, unique voice and characters that jumped off the page. Highly recommend for the beach or vacation read.
August 18, 2019
FairyTale thinking lives in my heart!
Because Jesus Christ lives in my heart I believe in the power of 💘love and my heart soars at His promises but the road,s frought with villains and heartache ~when we choose His ways and His Hand and then we can believe in happily ever after
Because Jesus Christ lives in my heart I believe in the power of 💘love and my heart soars at His promises but the road,s frought with villains and heartache ~when we choose His ways and His Hand and then we can believe in happily ever after
February 16, 2019
Very fun!
This was a lot of fun. It would be hard to choose a favorite. I loved reading these and loved the connection in all 4.
This was a lot of fun. It would be hard to choose a favorite. I loved reading these and loved the connection in all 4.
April 6, 2019
This was a fun collection! I enjoyed that there was a book in this collection titled "Finding Ever After", which made an appearance in each story. These were cute, fun twists on popular fairy tales!
June 14, 2019
Cute collection.
June 20, 2019
Love a happily ever after!
Four stories of fairytales and happily ever afters. Different times yes but still so fun to see the way the fairytales showed up in the stories.
Four stories of fairytales and happily ever afters. Different times yes but still so fun to see the way the fairytales showed up in the stories.
February 23, 2019
I love how the book “Finding Ever After” appears in all 4 of these stories. It's a great variety of ever afters!
1. Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham has all the charm & delight found in and old cherished & time-tested fairy tale. There is vividly-described scenery which draws the reader into the magical, fairy tale world the author has created. This fairy tale certainly ranks with some of the best!
The authors who become our favorites are those who write with a certain vibrancy and charm, captivating our imaginations with delightful, unforgettable characters who soon become dear old friends to us. The characters continue to remain alive in our hearts & minds, refusing to let us forget them, and almost begging us to return to them once again. These statements accurately portray this author.
I love this: “How can she understand heaven or miracles without an imagination? …such a novel question.” And this: “my life has been shaped by the circumstances God allows – the heartache to reach the happily-ever-after.” And: “bravery is not walking confidently in the light but keeping faith even in the dark.” I was only sorry to have the story end!
2. Entanglements by Rachel McMillan was hard for me to get interested in the story at the start, and I didn’t care for all the references to brandy. Once I got about halfway through the story, I could not put it down. Appearances aren’t always what they seem to be; fulfilling one’s duty, and doing the honorable thing; sins not being able to stay hidden, but eventually being exposed; and whether or not duty trumps love, or love trumps duty, are all interesting themes in the novella. Love this line: “She wondered if this is what Samson felt like, to be completely vulnerable and stripped of such a core part of one’s identity…” Interesting thought!
3. Twice Upon A Time by Ashley Clark made me laugh several times, with lines like: “Honey, you could’ve come in here in the middle of the night and I would’ve thrown a party in my curlers and nightgown.” And: “Her grandmother simple watched her, no doubt cataloging the split ends in her hair and the chips in her nail polish…” This is a clean story, but with no mention of God or faith that I remember.
4. Once Bitten by Betsy St. Amant has themes of coming to realize that assumptions are not necessarily true; lies never work out the way we expect, and there are consequences to pay; and forgiveness. This line is true: “Emotions are fickle things unless paired with good sense.” And this is good advice: “Don’t follow your heart unless your head is in agreement.” AND there is a bonus recipe at the end for Maggie’s Rustic Caramel Apple Tart, which I can hardly wait to try!
I received an advance copy of this collection, but received no compensation, nor was I required to leave a favorable review.
1. Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham has all the charm & delight found in and old cherished & time-tested fairy tale. There is vividly-described scenery which draws the reader into the magical, fairy tale world the author has created. This fairy tale certainly ranks with some of the best!
The authors who become our favorites are those who write with a certain vibrancy and charm, captivating our imaginations with delightful, unforgettable characters who soon become dear old friends to us. The characters continue to remain alive in our hearts & minds, refusing to let us forget them, and almost begging us to return to them once again. These statements accurately portray this author.
I love this: “How can she understand heaven or miracles without an imagination? …such a novel question.” And this: “my life has been shaped by the circumstances God allows – the heartache to reach the happily-ever-after.” And: “bravery is not walking confidently in the light but keeping faith even in the dark.” I was only sorry to have the story end!
2. Entanglements by Rachel McMillan was hard for me to get interested in the story at the start, and I didn’t care for all the references to brandy. Once I got about halfway through the story, I could not put it down. Appearances aren’t always what they seem to be; fulfilling one’s duty, and doing the honorable thing; sins not being able to stay hidden, but eventually being exposed; and whether or not duty trumps love, or love trumps duty, are all interesting themes in the novella. Love this line: “She wondered if this is what Samson felt like, to be completely vulnerable and stripped of such a core part of one’s identity…” Interesting thought!
3. Twice Upon A Time by Ashley Clark made me laugh several times, with lines like: “Honey, you could’ve come in here in the middle of the night and I would’ve thrown a party in my curlers and nightgown.” And: “Her grandmother simple watched her, no doubt cataloging the split ends in her hair and the chips in her nail polish…” This is a clean story, but with no mention of God or faith that I remember.
4. Once Bitten by Betsy St. Amant has themes of coming to realize that assumptions are not necessarily true; lies never work out the way we expect, and there are consequences to pay; and forgiveness. This line is true: “Emotions are fickle things unless paired with good sense.” And this is good advice: “Don’t follow your heart unless your head is in agreement.” AND there is a bonus recipe at the end for Maggie’s Rustic Caramel Apple Tart, which I can hardly wait to try!
I received an advance copy of this collection, but received no compensation, nor was I required to leave a favorable review.
February 23, 2019
I have enjoyed reading this collection more than once. The twists on fairy-tales are done so very well in each of the stories.
I particularly loved Pepper Basham's 'Between Stairs and Stardust'. The unique way Stella told the story of Cinderella to Alice was precious. I loved the “fairy” Godmother of the story. I loved the scenery surrounding The Biltmore and Granny in the mountains. Mostly, I loved Stella and James, the way they met and built a friendship first. I don't give spoilers, but there is a hugely dramatic scene that is indescribable and shows just how brave Stella really is.
The way Finding Ever After was introduced was magical. I love the note Stella inscribed “...You are brave enough to bring your own happily-ever-after into your own true story.”
In 'Entanglements' by Rachel McMillian, I loved Nic! “Yes. You will do, Mr. Ricci. You will do very nicely.” Loyal and selfless, to his father and friends, you could not find a better man! I felt so bad for Esther, being controlled by her father and the heartless man she was engaged to. The way she describes her finace' Thomas is hysterical! I was so glad for the Fairy God-Mothering Mrs. Mayweather and the not so sleepy Widow Barclay. I loved the mix of music and chess and the freedom it gave Nic and Esther to find hope. The element of an abundance of alcohol available during prohibition provided great drama.
Oh, and the melt your bones kiss. It's one to read multiple times.
I really liked 'Twice Upon a Time' by Ashley Clark. Sawyer was a great hero, trying to win back the love of his life while going above and beyond to help her family without her even knowing.
Emma, well, I found her a bit frustrating at first. I couldn't understand why she was so unwilling to talk to Sawyer, why didn't she know certain things about what was going on with her family. Clearly, she had her heart broken and was unwilling to try again. I absolutely loved Grandma Dorothea. The wisdom of her words “Emmaline, if you're running the wrong way, why would you keep going?” That was the big turning point for me in understanding and liking Emma more and more. I loved her Finding Ever After.
Now I've come to the last but not least, 'Once Bitten' by Betsy St. Amant. Maggie Craft lives a Snow White life with “Lips red as the rose, hair black as ebony, and skin white as snow.” “She's such a kind soul” too. She has seven nerdy book club boys filling the roles of dwarfs and her very own Prince Charming in the form of Griff Massey. The ever perfect Stepmother and gorgeous Stepsister to round out the cast. I couldn't help but love Maggie, a bookstore owner just living her life, baking fabulous apple tarts for her friends, and longing to feel accepted by her Stepmother since her father's death. At first, I wasn't sure of Griff's motives but quickly learned to love him too. I loved the way Maggie went into Thesaurus mode when she got nervous, it's a very unique characteristic.
Of course, there is drama with the Stepsister but there are also a few very touching moments.
Without giving anything away, I thought the victory gift Griff bought for Maggie was so special and the way he presented it was just right.
“Emotions are fickle things, unless paired with good sense.”
I can honestly say I love this book. Each story is a 'stand-alone' and not related to the other with the exception of how the authors used something special to connect them throughout time.
I particularly loved Pepper Basham's 'Between Stairs and Stardust'. The unique way Stella told the story of Cinderella to Alice was precious. I loved the “fairy” Godmother of the story. I loved the scenery surrounding The Biltmore and Granny in the mountains. Mostly, I loved Stella and James, the way they met and built a friendship first. I don't give spoilers, but there is a hugely dramatic scene that is indescribable and shows just how brave Stella really is.
The way Finding Ever After was introduced was magical. I love the note Stella inscribed “...You are brave enough to bring your own happily-ever-after into your own true story.”
In 'Entanglements' by Rachel McMillian, I loved Nic! “Yes. You will do, Mr. Ricci. You will do very nicely.” Loyal and selfless, to his father and friends, you could not find a better man! I felt so bad for Esther, being controlled by her father and the heartless man she was engaged to. The way she describes her finace' Thomas is hysterical! I was so glad for the Fairy God-Mothering Mrs. Mayweather and the not so sleepy Widow Barclay. I loved the mix of music and chess and the freedom it gave Nic and Esther to find hope. The element of an abundance of alcohol available during prohibition provided great drama.
Oh, and the melt your bones kiss. It's one to read multiple times.
I really liked 'Twice Upon a Time' by Ashley Clark. Sawyer was a great hero, trying to win back the love of his life while going above and beyond to help her family without her even knowing.
Emma, well, I found her a bit frustrating at first. I couldn't understand why she was so unwilling to talk to Sawyer, why didn't she know certain things about what was going on with her family. Clearly, she had her heart broken and was unwilling to try again. I absolutely loved Grandma Dorothea. The wisdom of her words “Emmaline, if you're running the wrong way, why would you keep going?” That was the big turning point for me in understanding and liking Emma more and more. I loved her Finding Ever After.
Now I've come to the last but not least, 'Once Bitten' by Betsy St. Amant. Maggie Craft lives a Snow White life with “Lips red as the rose, hair black as ebony, and skin white as snow.” “She's such a kind soul” too. She has seven nerdy book club boys filling the roles of dwarfs and her very own Prince Charming in the form of Griff Massey. The ever perfect Stepmother and gorgeous Stepsister to round out the cast. I couldn't help but love Maggie, a bookstore owner just living her life, baking fabulous apple tarts for her friends, and longing to feel accepted by her Stepmother since her father's death. At first, I wasn't sure of Griff's motives but quickly learned to love him too. I loved the way Maggie went into Thesaurus mode when she got nervous, it's a very unique characteristic.
Of course, there is drama with the Stepsister but there are also a few very touching moments.
Without giving anything away, I thought the victory gift Griff bought for Maggie was so special and the way he presented it was just right.
“Emotions are fickle things, unless paired with good sense.”
I can honestly say I love this book. Each story is a 'stand-alone' and not related to the other with the exception of how the authors used something special to connect them throughout time.
February 24, 2019
While I've yet to read the other stories in this wonderful collection, I'd like to at least leave my thoughts for the first story in the collection - Between Stairs and Stardust
Whimsical. That is the word I would choose for the beautiful novella Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham. Of course there are a whole bunch of other adjectives that could work as well—fabulous, heart-refreshing, romance-y, and just plain fun.
First off, let’s have a round of applause for a fairytale-ish inspired heroine who has both gumption AND heart. If you’re looking for the defenseless damsel in distress, then you’re gonna be disappointed because Stella Emory is not the helpless gal. Instead she seems to be the one who gives aid when needed! I totally LOVE that element about her. She’s self-less and tenderhearted—the perfect Cinderella of Asheville, NC.
I couldn’t brag about the heroine without mentioning the devoted James. He is the hero of heroes with kindness in every thought and action, loyalty that stretches beyond the social class system, and an all-around goodness that makes him the “prince” of the story.
All in all, this novella brims with enlightening historical details, enchanting landscapes, and a fairy-dust sprinkled romance that stirs the heart.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Whimsical. That is the word I would choose for the beautiful novella Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham. Of course there are a whole bunch of other adjectives that could work as well—fabulous, heart-refreshing, romance-y, and just plain fun.
First off, let’s have a round of applause for a fairytale-ish inspired heroine who has both gumption AND heart. If you’re looking for the defenseless damsel in distress, then you’re gonna be disappointed because Stella Emory is not the helpless gal. Instead she seems to be the one who gives aid when needed! I totally LOVE that element about her. She’s self-less and tenderhearted—the perfect Cinderella of Asheville, NC.
I couldn’t brag about the heroine without mentioning the devoted James. He is the hero of heroes with kindness in every thought and action, loyalty that stretches beyond the social class system, and an all-around goodness that makes him the “prince” of the story.
All in all, this novella brims with enlightening historical details, enchanting landscapes, and a fairy-dust sprinkled romance that stirs the heart.
*I received a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 26, 2025
Overall, I enjoyed this collection of novellas. I liked that each story 'featured' the book of faerietales that Stella had illustrated in the first novella, though I do wish that we'd seen a connection of how the book was passed to each new location.
My favourite of the 4 was that first novella by Pepper Basham. I loved that Stella and James built a strong friendship before realising that things were growing to 'more' between them. I also loved that they shared their thoughts about faith, strengthening each other in their walks with God.
My favourite of the 4 was that first novella by Pepper Basham. I loved that Stella and James built a strong friendship before realising that things were growing to 'more' between them. I also loved that they shared their thoughts about faith, strengthening each other in their walks with God.
February 18, 2019
Adorable!!
So many cute stories!!! The book of fairytales is the constant through time...and yet it happens quite naturally. I really loved all of these novellas and so will you...
So many cute stories!!! The book of fairytales is the constant through time...and yet it happens quite naturally. I really loved all of these novellas and so will you...
February 19, 2019
Loved 3/4 stories:
1. Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham
2. Entanglements by Rachel McMillan
4. Once Bitten by Betsy St. Amant
1. Between Stairs and Stardust by Pepper Basham
2. Entanglements by Rachel McMillan
4. Once Bitten by Betsy St. Amant
February 24, 2019
What a wonderful combination of sweetness and happily ever afters! I loved the building up of the fairy tale into a new time period. Each author weaved amazing details into their own once upon a time novellas. If you love happily ever afters, you’ll love Finding Ever After.
February 24, 2019
Fun romance
These four novellas based very loosely on fairy tales are delightful and sweet. Each couple bring fun and joy to the story.
These four novellas based very loosely on fairy tales are delightful and sweet. Each couple bring fun and joy to the story.
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