Manhattan Cinderella

Fairy Tales in New York

by Kate O'Keeffe

This New Yorker doesn't need a fairy godmother—but what about a prince?Twenty-two-year-old Gabriella Davis aspires to be pop music's next big thing. And she’s going to make it. She’s got her kid sister to save. But first she needs to get away from her gold-digging stepmother who has her working her butt off as assistant to her band.Super-hot singer Cole Grant is a country boy at heart, so when he leaves his native Tennessee for New York City, he's about as comfortable as a deer on ice. He's determined to make the most of this chance of a lifetime, but thanks to an explosive family revelation, the opportunity might blow up in his face.When a chance meeting involving a lost shoe and a taxi brings Gabby and Cole together, their attraction is instant. But with so much at stake, neither one is in the market for love. With fame and fortune beckoning, can they open their hearts to one another? Or will the secrets they hold keep them from finding their happily ever after?Manhattan Cinderella is a steamy contemporary retelling of Cinderella. This full-length novel is sexier than Kate’s other titles, but has the same light-hearted, feel-good tone.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, New Adult, Fiction, Rom Com, Retellings

388 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 11, 2019

About the author

Kate O'Keeffe is a USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author who writes exactly what she loves to read: laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with swoon-worthy heroes and gorgeous feel-good happily ever afters. She lives and loves in beautiful Hawke's Bay, New Zealand with her family and two scruffy but loveable dogs.

When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries around the globe (back when we used to be able to do that), and eating chocolate. A lot of it.

Get a free book when you sign up to Kate's newsletter at kateokeeffe.com.

Reviews

[Lisa (Two Bookish Brits) · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute.

What a fun modern day Cinderella story.

Gabby and her sister are currently living a life they wished were different. After her dad had a massive heart attack he’s gone away on a peaceful retreat leaving his two daughters with their step mom and sisters who do nothing but bring them down. I’m true Cinderella style the girls are made to cook and clean and do absolutely anything the step mom says. So when Gabby has a slight chance of changing things she grabs on to it and in steps Cole.

Cole has been lied to his whole life. When his grandma died his grandpop couldn’t keep the secret in any longer. A secret that has Cole travelling to a different country seeking the truth. What he doesn’t expect is the way his life is about to change.

These two were adorable from the get go. From their first meeting to the last it’s been cute!

I absolutely was not a fan of the step mom or daughters and even their dad because wtf? Who goes and leaves their kids that long with a step mom who he “had a feeling about”?? But anyway, he made it up to them in the end so it’s all good.

I did enjoy the book but found myself skimming pages as my interest was lost unfortunately.

Other than that, it was good.

[Elvira · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a cute twist on the Cinderella storyline. The characters are well developed and engaging and the storyline flowed with ease that I was engaged from the start.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Cinderella 🎤songstress dying for a career break and the southern boy she can't forget😘
April 7, 2019
Format: Paperback
👍👍4.5🌟stars 🎼💕
I really enjoyed this updated version of Cinderella with all of its ties into the 🎼music industry. The evil stepmother is also an evil stagemother and the hero and heroine are gifted 🎤singers and songwriters. Their accidental, messy meeting and lightning courtship while prowling the streets of 🌇Manhattan provided some wit, humor and amusing conversations. Their physical relationship was not explicit and the💕 romantic scenes were touching. Both heroine Gabby and hero Cole have major family issues to deal with that give the story a bit more depth.

I would recommend this one; it is well-written and totally oozes the feeling of young love.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Diane Michaels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate O’Keeffe’s retelling of the Cinderella story, set in the present day kingdom of New York City, sparkles like a glass slipper and proves how a single shoe can change a life or two. Thanks to a glittery sandal left behind in a taxi and a coating of green goop from a spilled smoothie, Gabby and Cole meet cute and fall hard for each other. With their separate agendas for achieving their happily-ever-afters, or at least survival goals for the near future, a fairy tale romance is a complication they should resist, especially when love and ambition are at odds. Benevolent kings, evil stepmonsters, and a trio of Ellas round out the cast of this charming book that is full of heart, wit, and passion.

[J_McA 251 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a big fan of this author, so I was excited to read this latest from her. The title pretty much tells you what you need to know about the book, and the author does a great job of putting a modern twist on the classic fairy tale. The writing is lighthearted, and the plot moves along breezily. I really liked how both Gabby and Cole were not exactly the stereotypes of the characters they were representing; they both had some depth to them that added to their relationship arc. I particularly enjoyed Cole’s story, because I was expecting it go in a totally different direction than it actually did, and I love that the author didn’t go down a “usual” path with it – that was a pleasant surprise. The book was a nice, fun read that reminded me of the TV show “Nashville” with a hint of “Never Been Kissed,” and I highly recommend picking it up. Oh, and I must give a shout out to Thaddeus Kensington III…just because! This review was based on a complimentary pre-release copy.

[Debbie Orazi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A modern day Cinderella story. Gabby lost her mother several years ago, her father remarried and left then for an extended sabbatical, her little sister has been shoplifting, and she is trying to break into the music business. Cole never knew who is rather was, recently lost his grandmother, and when he finds out who his father is rushed to NYC to meet him. They literally bump into each other at a recording studio and once they wipe the kale smoothie off themselves their attraction is immediate. This story is funny, snarky, heartwarming and romantic with great characters. Highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Regina · Rating 4 out of 5]

- Absent father: Check
- Evil stepmother and stepsisters: Check
- Lost shoe: Check

The usual trappings of the trope are firmly in place to make Gabby's life less than easy.
What I like about Kate O'Keeffe's interpretation of the story is that Gabby is actively working on a plan to get herself and her little sister out of the difficult situation their father has left them in.

Which is still easier with a little help from Cole, who makes a swoon-worthy Prince Charming to complement Gabby. I also appreciated how his side of the story played out - family drama and clashes with "Man Bun" included.

While the insta-love was a bit much for me (I'm not the biggest fan of that particular trope, but that's just me), I still enjoyed the story overall and couldn't help but fall in love with Gabby and Cole a little myself.

Bonus point for a fun supporting cast including the "Ellas" (looking forward to reading *their* stories) and Cole's family, especially cousin Avery and her twins.

[Lady M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't usually read Modern Fairytale stories but I really enjoyed this one! It was very loosely based on Cinderella so you're not going to feel like you're reading a kiddie book. In fact, if it wasn't in the title or description you might not make all the connections. I don't want to give away any plot with too much description but I really enjoyed this. Gabby and Cole just had this easy banter and had me smirking throughout most of the book. For those that this part matters - there is sex, but it's not overly descriptive, just enough to know that it happens.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wanna be pop princess, ditched by her dad with her little sister in tow. The out of wedlock son of rock royalty.

A thieving wicked step- monster. Her two daughters - one of whom has a heart after all, maybe.

A duo destined to fall in love, even though they tried not to - and trials and tribulations to keep the couple apart - but maybe only for a little while before they get a happy ending.

Sweet and sassy.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikki LeClair · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good fairy tale retelling!
This one proved to be worth the time in reading. It's not the first time I have read Kate's books and it won't be the last. Seriously, she always manages to make me snicker and swoon at least three or four times with her work.
I absolutely loved this story, there are a few changes to the original Cinderella telling but I found that the really interesting part. The plot flowed very well, and man, she did a fantastic job turning the stepmother into a modern day villain! Can't wait for the next in the series.

[Meg Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabriella has a lot on her plate balancing a evil stepmother, working on her desire for a singing career and protecting her sister. This is a darling, happily ever after book that takes a lot of turns getting to that HEA ending. Characters that are easy to love or dislike whichever the case may be. I was looking for something light, witty and fun. This book fit perfectly. The shoe was an interesting addition. Definitely the right book for bedtime or just relaxing. Well done!

[Jackie Brokaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a sucker for re-imagined fairytales so I was excited to hear that Kate O'Keeffe decided to combine her fun romantic story-telling style with fairytales. In Manhattan Cinderella, you get hints here and there of the classic story elements, but there is a much more elaborate storyline than just a girl, a shoe, a prince, and a pumpkin. Gabby and Cole's story is one of rising stars, romance, secrets, and what would Cinderella be without the villans: the evil stepmother and stepsisters? I also enjoyed the continuation of Kate's style of writing from both characters' perspective. I am excited to see which fairytale is hitting New York next!

[MoonGarden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Contemporary Cinderella setting

A very familiar story line, but super well written and fun to read. The characters are interesting, and the dialog great. Also, sarcasm, and other forms of humor, I found myself smiling a lot.

This is the sixth book I've read by O'Keeffe and I'm really glad I found her. I look forward to reading others!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Magali · Rating 4 out of 5]

More original than it seemed to be in the first chapter.
I understood that the story would be built like a modern remake of Cinderella, but the first chapter was a bit scary as all the characters tended to look like the original story.
But quickly, Gabriela and Cole's characters show a lot of humor in their character, and I found that the world of pop and the glance on the glory and the starification brought an original touch: replace a ball by an opening for a big pop star was quite surprising as parallel.
In addition, there are some variations, whether for the shoe that appears before the characters meet or the fact that Cole is not rich and that despite her problems with his stepmother, Gabriela comes from a rih family, and that she accepts the ungrateful stains proposed to protect her sister and not simply to obey.
In short, it was a nice re-written, a little more modern.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Manhattan Cinderella is loosely based on the fairy tale, but with very modern twists. The stepmother was also a stage mother and used Gabby as a general gopher for all daily tasks. Gabby and Cole were both songwriters and singers. Both Gabby and Cole have family issues they must overcome. This book is well written and often funny. Gabby and Cole have a meet cute and a whirlwind courtship. If you like fairy tales, young love and chick lit, you will not want to miss this book.

[Tracy Fritts · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a wonderful romantic comedy. I enjoyed reading about Gariella and Cole. I enjoyed the storyline. It was well written. I thought these two characters had chemistry. It kept my instrest throughout the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an endearing version of Cinderella. Gabriella was to be a famous pop singer and help her sister. First she has to get away from her not so nice stepmother. Loved this version. Don’t miss out , once it’s released.

[Holly Kerr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner! I love the retelling of fairy tales and this one is no exception. But I have to say I much prefer Cole over the real Prince Charming! He may have some baggage to deal with, but he easily won my heart! (I'm not saying what happened with Gabby because that would give it away!)

[Elizabeth McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this Cinderella story. The characters were fun and exciting. Gabby and Cole had their work cut out for them but they finally got their HEA. Great read

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a modern retelling of Cinderella with a music twist. I loved this book. The story is well written and the characters have wonderful back stories that help you understand what they are going through.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I enjoy all of Kate O'Keeffe's book so that didn't surprise me. Although, I do think this is my favorite book of hers to date. It was a lot of fun with the right amount of romance.

[Cali Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this contemporary and fun spin on a Cinderella story it is filled with lots of witty banter, family drama and heartwarming moments.... was a great read from beginning to end. Really enjoyed all the emotional thrills, action packed twists and undeniable passion. A very fun entertaining journey.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love Kate’s books. Really enjoyed how we got to see the story unfold from both sides. I never want to finish Kate’s books as I get pulled in and feel so invested.

[Melissa B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cinderella meets her cowboy! The writing of O'Keeffe for this book is lighthearted and breezy, though it doesn't follow the usual paths and that makes it so refreshing.
It's told in a dual point of view so it's easy to relate to the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lenda Burns · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cinderella as you've never seen her.
This new story has an interesting plot and good characters.
I like how the story unfolded and ended.
Kate O'Keeffe has written another must read story.

[Marianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a cute romance. It's a sweet, quirky retelling of a fairy tale, which makes it even more fun to read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute and fun modern retelling of Cinderella, told in a dual point of view (which I really like).

[Jenifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sugary sweet and sour.
Syrupy sweetness to rot your teeth but also enough cheese to fill a charcuterie board.
Of course we're supposed to hate the stepmonster and stepsisters from hell, and I did, but I really didn't like snarky Gabby much either- and not her bratty rebellious little sister. I liked Cole and that his dad was looking forward to forming a relationship with him but the whole small town country boy in the big city routine grew tiresome. It's hard to like a book when I don't like the characters.
It was today's pop music spin on Cinderella with Gabby as the woe-is-me worked-to-the-bone stepdaughter.
Overall, it was just okay for me. Now please excuse me while I go get some crackers to go with all this cheese.

(I received a complimentary copy of this book from Hidden Gems)

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Manhattan Cinderella, the first book in the Fairy Tales in New York series, by Kate O’Keeffe, Gabriella Davis, or Gabby, is the Cinderella in this story. Even though she is a talented singer herself, her stepmother has her working as the assistant to the latest pop duo, the Pop Princesses, her stepsisters. She may be old enough to be on her own, but she has to protect her kid sister. Then she meets Tennessee native, Cole Grant, her potential prince if you will. They each have family secrets they would rather not broadcast to the world, but they are instantly drawn to each other. Not only is this a modern twist on a classic story, but we also get to witness the budding, unlikely romance between a city girl and a country boy.

I absolutely love Cinderella stories, but this one shouldn’t only be bundled up into that category. Yes, it has similarities with the classic story, and that makes it fun, but it also has its own unique elements that make it stand out from the rest. Like in the story we all know and love, we get to know the wicked stepmother and her spawn, and as a reader, you will want to slap them at times, but then we get a glimpse into a more positive part of Gabby’s life. When Gabby is singing or when she is with Cole, you almost forget about her unfair and broken home life. It is a nice escape from her reality. It’s also great to read this story from two different points of view, which is a nice little spin on the classic story. We’re not left wondering what Cole is up to or what he is thinking. What I think I enjoyed the most about this book is that Gabby is her own person. Gabby and Cole bring joy into each other’s lives, but she doesn’t need a prince to come rescue her. Manhattan Cinderella will give you a mixture of emotions: the joy, the excitement, the anger, the laughter, the sadness, all of it. And at the end of the day, you won’t regret reading it. Kate O’Keeffe is a talented writer, and it shows. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!

Reviewed for Readers' Favorite

[Patricia Solla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This take off on the Cinderella story is funny, poignant and thought provoking. The story opens introducing Gabriella, a young woman with a wicked stepmother, two stepsisters and a real sister. Gabriella's father has been out of touch with the family for several months trying to reduce his stress levels. Meanwhile her stepmother has taken over the 'running of the household', which means she's pampering her own daughters and treating Gabriella and her sister, Cece, like servants. Gabriella, who actually could strike out on her own, stays with the family being the 'fall' guy and making sure Cece is okay. Their lives center around Sylvia, the stepmother, managing her daughters , Kylie and Britney, band. Promises have been made and broken. Gabriella keeps trying to break into the business herself with no help from Sylvia. Gabriella is Sylvia's assistant, aka 'the go for'. While running errands Gabriella loses a shoe that she was taking to be repaired. The shoe is found by Cole who is in NYC to meet with his rock star father. Rex Randell, that Cole has only found out who he is. Rex is trying to make a comeback in the music business and he is to preform at Madison Square Garden. The opening act is the Pop Princesses, the band Sylvia is managing. Cole and Gabriella connect and their time together is interesting and fun. Gabriella plays tourist guide for Cole, in between her being at Sylvia's beck and call, and Cole trying to connect with his father who he doesn't really know. There are lots of interesting characters and events throughout the story and, of course, there's a happy ending.