What do you think?
Rate this book
Steampunk Fairy Tales
Goblins and Snowflakes: An Elves and the Shoemaker Retelling
Never bargain with goblin men.
Scarlette Rossetti thought her stay at Strawberry Hill Castle during the Christmas holiday would pass by uneventfully. She couldn't have been more wrong. Enticed by the delights of the nearby village of Twickenham, Scarlette's life would change in unimaginable ways.
She never expected to be drawn magnetically to The Two Sisters Doll Shop and Toy Emporium.
Scarlette didn't guess that tinkering clockwork gnomes could have supernatural consequences.
And she didn't know that one should never, ever, bargain with goblin men.
But during the Christmas season, magic is always brewing.
Charles Dickens meets Supernatural in this magical retelling of The Elves and The Shoemaker . Dive into New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak's award-winning fairy tale world set in gaslamp England.
Scarlette Rossetti thought her stay at Strawberry Hill Castle during the Christmas holiday would pass by uneventfully. She couldn't have been more wrong. Enticed by the delights of the nearby village of Twickenham, Scarlette's life would change in unimaginable ways.
She never expected to be drawn magnetically to The Two Sisters Doll Shop and Toy Emporium.
Scarlette didn't guess that tinkering clockwork gnomes could have supernatural consequences.
And she didn't know that one should never, ever, bargain with goblin men.
But during the Christmas season, magic is always brewing.
Charles Dickens meets Supernatural in this magical retelling of The Elves and The Shoemaker . Dive into New York Times bestselling author Melanie Karsak's award-winning fairy tale world set in gaslamp England.
116 pages, Paperback
First published January 8, 2019
89 people are currently reading
537 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Karsak
90 books1,710 followersNew York Times and USA Today best-selling historical fantasy author Melanie Karsak is the author of the Celtic Blood series, Steampunk Red Riding Hood, Steampunk Fairy Tales, the Road to Valhalla Series, and other works of fantasy and fiction. The author currently lives in Florida with her husband and two children.
Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Connect with me online:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Webpage: http://www.melaniekarsak.com
Facebook: @AuthorMelanieKarsak
Pinterest: @melaniekarsak
Instagram: @karsakmelanie
Join my newsletter and get Under the Strawberry Moon for FREE: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Connect with me online:
Newsletter: https://bit.ly/37y35RS
Webpage: http://www.melaniekarsak.com
Facebook: @AuthorMelanieKarsak
Pinterest: @melaniekarsak
Instagram: @karsakmelanie
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
November 18, 2025
Elves and the Shoemaker Re-telling
What to my wandering eyes should appear? Clockwork gnomes and toy ducks with gears
“Goblins and clockwork gnomes. What is this world?” This is where the magic lives. This was a blast! Perfect blend of cozy spooky with a dash of romance.
Let in a little love, a little life force, a little magic. You’ll find it there.
Had it just been shadows? A trick of the trees and the snow....
"You must never bargain with goblin men."
“Moonlight riddle, casting down.
Fix their feet upon the ground.
Tie their tongues and bind their hands.
To my spirit leashed, I now demand.
Goblins damned, I rule you all.
And now you will begin to fall.”
What to my wandering eyes should appear? Clockwork gnomes and toy ducks with gears
“Goblins and clockwork gnomes. What is this world?” This is where the magic lives. This was a blast! Perfect blend of cozy spooky with a dash of romance.
Let in a little love, a little life force, a little magic. You’ll find it there.
Had it just been shadows? A trick of the trees and the snow....
"You must never bargain with goblin men."
“Moonlight riddle, casting down.
Fix their feet upon the ground.
Tie their tongues and bind their hands.
To my spirit leashed, I now demand.
Goblins damned, I rule you all.
And now you will begin to fall.”
November 20, 2018
This was another great steam punk fairy tale from the mind of Melanie Karsak. Her writing is wonderfully unique. She brings all her fairy tales to life with such adventure. Each one is hard to put down!
August 22, 2020
Cute story. Very well writen and enjoyable. Pure sugar and light hearted storytelling. Review when I can.
December 23, 2023
What a cute little Christmas tale! I loved the steampunk touches and romance. So fun!
November 16, 2018
I really don't think you can get better then this author for amazing, safe, and fun reads. I loved this story based on the Elves and the Shoemaker. It was such a fun retelling. I loved the way the main character, Miss Scarlette Rossetti, was both intelligent, caring but also adventurous. Her heart was so big and it made the story that much more enjoyable. I loved the holiday spirit that was involved, but also the Goblins!
It introduced the reader the the creation (in part) of the Red Cape Society, but only gave enough that I will need more. I also really enjoyed the town description and the hint of romance. I have never wanted to be a part of story as much as I am with this author works. Strong and fun characters makes this story worth reading.
Any reader can start with this story and understand it without having read any previous stories. I look forward to reading more from Scarlette and Archie in the future. They could definitely keep me engaged for many more books to come (hint, hint...)! I received and ARC and am leaving an honest review.
It introduced the reader the the creation (in part) of the Red Cape Society, but only gave enough that I will need more. I also really enjoyed the town description and the hint of romance. I have never wanted to be a part of story as much as I am with this author works. Strong and fun characters makes this story worth reading.
Any reader can start with this story and understand it without having read any previous stories. I look forward to reading more from Scarlette and Archie in the future. They could definitely keep me engaged for many more books to come (hint, hint...)! I received and ARC and am leaving an honest review.
December 15, 2020
A very enjoyable story and remake of the Elves and the Shoemaker. Scarlette is a well developed character and even though I have never read anything in this world before it was easy to understand. It is great also to see the use of Rossetti's poem the Goblin Market, one which I have just recently discovered and fell in love with.
April 13, 2021
In a quaint town in Victorian England, Scarlette Rosetti is staying at her uncle’s estate for the Christmas holiday while he prepares to throw a party for all of the genius members of the RM club. She spends her days in town spreading goodwill and helping old twin ladies with their mechanical toyshop as they fill orders for Christmas. When she tries to design a doll that plays a piano, she takes a group of gnome dolls back to the estate with her to try to practice the mechanism that will go inside the doll with the piano. And on her way she runs across a mysterious encampment of robed men trying to sell her whatever her heart might want.
This is not a steampunk story. Yes, it’s set in Victorian England. Yes, there were clockwork cogs mentioned. But the devices that the clockwork cogs were being used in were wind-up dolls that could do basic movements. If we can buy said devices normally in an antique store, it’s not steampunk. Was there any mention of steam-powered technology? No. Ergo, this story is a historical fantasy, and not a steampunk. I’m really tired of people trying to sell their stories as Steampunk when they aren’t. Gail Carriger used to do that, too. Her books were historical fantasy with an airship or two flying by in the distance. That said, I did love this historical fantasy. It has a lovely regency-style romance with a handsome young aristocratic visitor that flourished in a warm friendship and admiration as he finds she shares an interest in creating things. I loved that Scarlette loved spreading goodwill, cheerfulness, and friendship to the entire quaint village. The story was very much a Cozy in that respect. I loved that she loved working with mechanics and helping out in a shop rather than hanging around the estate putting on dresses all day as a lady of privilege. And I loved that she didn’t shy away from competition. And I loved that she was suspicious and distrusting of the mysterious traveling peddlers. And I loved the mysterious colorful creepy, eerie peddlers who sounded like buying something from them would be making a deal with the devil. (Mistress Quickly though felt out of place, like she belonged in an urban paranormal and I could have done without the RM and Red Cape Society which felt gimmicky). I loved all of the eccentric villagers and I loved the quaint Victorian Christmastime bustle of the village. And I loved the magic of this story as the author spun her own version of the elves and the shoemaker with that part of the story being condensed into only a scene. This is a delightful novella-size fantasy-filled holiday tale with a bit of thrill and adventure.
This is not a steampunk story. Yes, it’s set in Victorian England. Yes, there were clockwork cogs mentioned. But the devices that the clockwork cogs were being used in were wind-up dolls that could do basic movements. If we can buy said devices normally in an antique store, it’s not steampunk. Was there any mention of steam-powered technology? No. Ergo, this story is a historical fantasy, and not a steampunk. I’m really tired of people trying to sell their stories as Steampunk when they aren’t. Gail Carriger used to do that, too. Her books were historical fantasy with an airship or two flying by in the distance. That said, I did love this historical fantasy. It has a lovely regency-style romance with a handsome young aristocratic visitor that flourished in a warm friendship and admiration as he finds she shares an interest in creating things. I loved that Scarlette loved spreading goodwill, cheerfulness, and friendship to the entire quaint village. The story was very much a Cozy in that respect. I loved that she loved working with mechanics and helping out in a shop rather than hanging around the estate putting on dresses all day as a lady of privilege. And I loved that she didn’t shy away from competition. And I loved that she was suspicious and distrusting of the mysterious traveling peddlers. And I loved the mysterious colorful creepy, eerie peddlers who sounded like buying something from them would be making a deal with the devil. (Mistress Quickly though felt out of place, like she belonged in an urban paranormal and I could have done without the RM and Red Cape Society which felt gimmicky). I loved all of the eccentric villagers and I loved the quaint Victorian Christmastime bustle of the village. And I loved the magic of this story as the author spun her own version of the elves and the shoemaker with that part of the story being condensed into only a scene. This is a delightful novella-size fantasy-filled holiday tale with a bit of thrill and adventure.
November 18, 2018
This is another wonderful steampunk fairy tale from Melanie Karsak. The setting is familiar to fans, an earlier time in the world of the Red Cape society. Did you ever wonder about the Rude Mechanicals? Now is your chance to spend an exciting Christmas with them! Read this now. If you haven’t already been immersed in the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series by this author this would be a great prequel!
Scarlette Rossetti has been visiting her uncle at Strawberry Hill, his estate, for the holiday season. Her uncle is often busy leaving Scarlette to her own devices. Not one to be idle herself, she spend a lot of time in the nearby village of Twickenham.
Twickenham is a friendly place. Scarlette has made friends at the bakery, and other businesses. She has become especially fond of a widow with small children. Scarlette also finds herself drawn to the Two Sisters doll shop.
The elderly sisters have a busy season themselves trying to fill all the Christmas orders on time. What Scarlette loves most is working with the sisters. With one special order, a doll that appears to be playing a piano, she is soon immersed in her most interesting task yet. Will she be able to tinker up a solution?
On the way to and from the village, Scarlette sees a group of strange merchants that have set up a market and tents in the woods. Their cries of “Come buy, come buy” haunt her. The odd little men become more and more insistent each time she passes. Who are the strange fellows haunting the road?
Jump into the mystery in this fabulous steampunk world!
Kindle Unlimited edition
Scarlette Rossetti has been visiting her uncle at Strawberry Hill, his estate, for the holiday season. Her uncle is often busy leaving Scarlette to her own devices. Not one to be idle herself, she spend a lot of time in the nearby village of Twickenham.
Twickenham is a friendly place. Scarlette has made friends at the bakery, and other businesses. She has become especially fond of a widow with small children. Scarlette also finds herself drawn to the Two Sisters doll shop.
The elderly sisters have a busy season themselves trying to fill all the Christmas orders on time. What Scarlette loves most is working with the sisters. With one special order, a doll that appears to be playing a piano, she is soon immersed in her most interesting task yet. Will she be able to tinker up a solution?
On the way to and from the village, Scarlette sees a group of strange merchants that have set up a market and tents in the woods. Their cries of “Come buy, come buy” haunt her. The odd little men become more and more insistent each time she passes. Who are the strange fellows haunting the road?
Jump into the mystery in this fabulous steampunk world!
Kindle Unlimited edition
November 20, 2018
The Start of the Red Cape Society!
Melanie Karsak has created a steampunk universe where historical figures, like Horace Walpole, interact with fictional ones, and where — hallelujah! — women have career options and are treated with the same respect as men (at least by the men who matter.) It makes for a particularly delightful escape fantasy.
This installment takes place a generation or so before the Clemeny (Little Red Riding Hood) series, and tells the story of how the Red Cape Society came into being, in a plot loosely based on the fairytale of the Elves and the Shoemaker, mashed up with Christina Rossetti’s poem, The Goblin Market.
Our heroine, Scarlette Rossetti, the “niece” of Horace Walpole, is a natural tinker, and it is her work on the dolls at the local toy shop, to help out the proprietors, that drives the plot forward.
Throw in some magic, goblins, a handsome young genius romantic interest, and the Rude Mechanicals, all in the few days leading up to Christmas, and the plot thickens and tension mounts.
The best part is that Scarlette manages to save the day with only minimal help—it’s more of a team effort; no “damsel in distress” rescuing required. AND [SPOILER ALERT!] I love that the Red Cap Society owes its name to her!
All in all, another delightful jaunt through Karsak’s magical steampunk universe. More! More!
Melanie Karsak has created a steampunk universe where historical figures, like Horace Walpole, interact with fictional ones, and where — hallelujah! — women have career options and are treated with the same respect as men (at least by the men who matter.) It makes for a particularly delightful escape fantasy.
This installment takes place a generation or so before the Clemeny (Little Red Riding Hood) series, and tells the story of how the Red Cape Society came into being, in a plot loosely based on the fairytale of the Elves and the Shoemaker, mashed up with Christina Rossetti’s poem, The Goblin Market.
Our heroine, Scarlette Rossetti, the “niece” of Horace Walpole, is a natural tinker, and it is her work on the dolls at the local toy shop, to help out the proprietors, that drives the plot forward.
Throw in some magic, goblins, a handsome young genius romantic interest, and the Rude Mechanicals, all in the few days leading up to Christmas, and the plot thickens and tension mounts.
The best part is that Scarlette manages to save the day with only minimal help—it’s more of a team effort; no “damsel in distress” rescuing required. AND [SPOILER ALERT!] I love that the Red Cap Society owes its name to her!
All in all, another delightful jaunt through Karsak’s magical steampunk universe. More! More!
November 18, 2018
Scarlett thought her visit with her uncle Horace would be boring, but it certainly wasn't. Never one to be idle, she fell in love with the town of Twickenham and made several friends. From helping the twin sisters in their doll and toy shop to helping a family in need, Scarlett is thoroughly enjoying herself and finding out that she really likes tinkering with things. Uncle Horace has friends coming to visit during part of the Christmas season and Scarlett is happy to meet them, especially one in particular. While it appears that she might just be gallivanting about, there is a mystery and possibly magic involved. This is a delightful retelling of The Shoemaker and the Elves. I really enjoyed several nice surprises that relate to some of the other steampunk books or series from this author. Great world building with well written characters and a fun plot. I was drawn right in and thoroughly enjoyed this holiday novella!
November 15, 2018
I love these novellas from Melanie. Every time I read one I never want to leave. If you have read any of her other Steampunk Fairy Tales, you will love this. If you have not this is a great place to start as this happens before a lot of the other books. Scarlette is a great character with a big heart and a brilliant mind. Archie is a perfect match for her. It was also nice to get a pick inside R.M. as you only get a glimpse from the outside in the other books, you get more of inside look in this book. You also see how the Red Caps come to light.
*I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
*I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
December 6, 2018
Not to be read on an empty stomach! The first chapter had me salivating with all the descriptions of the goods at the bakery! Yum!
This is definitely one to get you in the Christmas spirit, set on the run up to and Christmas day itself, with a key theme of giving. An interesting steampunk twist on the Elves and the Shoemaker tale as well as an absolute delight for fans of Rossetti’s Goblin Market.
I’ve not read any of Karsak’s work before but this really captured my imagination. I’ll certainly be checking out more of her steampunk fairytales in the near future as this was great fun with just a dash of ominous tension.
This is definitely one to get you in the Christmas spirit, set on the run up to and Christmas day itself, with a key theme of giving. An interesting steampunk twist on the Elves and the Shoemaker tale as well as an absolute delight for fans of Rossetti’s Goblin Market.
I’ve not read any of Karsak’s work before but this really captured my imagination. I’ll certainly be checking out more of her steampunk fairytales in the near future as this was great fun with just a dash of ominous tension.
December 22, 2018
I love Scarlette Rossetti, the heroine in Melanie Karsak’s Goblins and Snowflakes, and the marvelous steampunk universe that the novel inhabits. This is a wonderful holiday treat with a perfect plot and really beautifully crafted cast of characters. Truly enjoyable and just what any steampunk fan needs for the holiday season. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend.
December 13, 2020
Tinkering a Gnome
Scarlette Rosetti is Intelligent never idle and beautiful! She doesn't know it surrounded by magic! Archie Boatswain III was visiting her (Uncle) fathers best friend and men er of a secret society! Archie is a brilliant, tall handsome tinker and sees gifts in Scarlette she doesn't see in herself! Things are happening around her that can't be explained but Goblins are evil and persistent what happens when Scarlette buys something from them will they request something in exchange? Not her new budding romance with Archie? Read on.....certainly want more adventures with this couple!
Scarlette Rosetti is Intelligent never idle and beautiful! She doesn't know it surrounded by magic! Archie Boatswain III was visiting her (Uncle) fathers best friend and men er of a secret society! Archie is a brilliant, tall handsome tinker and sees gifts in Scarlette she doesn't see in herself! Things are happening around her that can't be explained but Goblins are evil and persistent what happens when Scarlette buys something from them will they request something in exchange? Not her new budding romance with Archie? Read on.....certainly want more adventures with this couple!
November 19, 2018
ONE FASCINATING ADVENTURE!!!
Oh my! Talk about a walk on the wild side. I loved this little jewel. This is one exciting, action packed, fast paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, page turning bombshell that's as riveting as it is captivating. All the twists and turns, unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for incredible experience. The drama, mystery, magic and suspense steadily increases and tension thickens keeping you frozen to your seat and sole focus on the pages. Melanie created a world around us until everything else ceases to exist. The characters are well developed, complex and believable with such depth you feel like your part of the tale instead of on the sidelines. Melanie has such a vast and varied insight as she graphically describes each scenario as they play off one another in a perfect balance. Melanie did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Incredible job Melanie, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
Oh my! Talk about a walk on the wild side. I loved this little jewel. This is one exciting, action packed, fast paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, page turning bombshell that's as riveting as it is captivating. All the twists and turns, unexpected circumstances and unpredictable surprises around every corner make for incredible experience. The drama, mystery, magic and suspense steadily increases and tension thickens keeping you frozen to your seat and sole focus on the pages. Melanie created a world around us until everything else ceases to exist. The characters are well developed, complex and believable with such depth you feel like your part of the tale instead of on the sidelines. Melanie has such a vast and varied insight as she graphically describes each scenario as they play off one another in a perfect balance. Melanie did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Incredible job Melanie, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
November 22, 2018
This is a sweet steampunk fairy tale retelling of the classic The Elves and The Shoemaker. 18-year-old Scarlette is staying with her honorary uncle during the Christmas season near Twickenham. Her uncle is scholarly and reclusive, but she has a curious mind and spends a lot of her time in town. She has a generous spirit. She's also not idle and puts her mind to work. But all of her energy and curiosity get her into trouble. This is a jaunty tale with interesting characters, sinister goblins, and a bit of romance. It's a page-turner of a story and a quick read. I highly recommend this story for young adults and up.
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I received an ARC of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 19, 2020
Series Info/Source: This is the fifth book (more like a novella) in the Steampunk Fairy Tales series. I borrowed this through Kindle Unlimited.
Story (4/5): This is a very cute winter holiday story. Scarlette is staying at her Uncle’s while her father travels, her Uncle resides in the village of Twickenham. Scarlette likes to stay busy and has taken to helping the pair of older sisters that runs the local toy store. They task her with figuring out how to make a toy piano player and Scarlette is up to the challenge. Meanwhile her uncle is hosting the Rude Mechanicals for the holidays, including a rather handsome young inventor who is drawn to Scarlette for both her tinkering talent and kind nature. When Scarlette starts tinkering with clockwork gnomes and strange goblin men get involved she finds that there is more than romance in the air, there may be magic as well.
I enjoyed this story a lot. It’s a cute and magical holiday read, that is fun and romantic. It leaves you feeling happy and light-hearted. This book is a precursor to other books in this series and describes the formation of the Red Cape Society (which is featured both in books in the Steampunk Fairy Tale series and in the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series).
Characters (4/5): Scarlette is a woman of privilege who goes out of her way to make sure everyone in Twickenham village is taken care of. I loved her kind and inquisitive nature, she was easy to engage with and fun to read about. Pretty much all of the characters in here were like that. They were all well developed, kind, and creative types.
Setting (4/5): Twickenham village is a magical winter setting that I really enjoyed getting to know. The description here is magical and makes it easy to picture the town and its simple winter beauty.
Writing Style (4/5): This is well written and easy to read. I enjoyed how both the story of “The Elves and the Shoemaker” and the poem of “The Goblin Market” were incorporated into this steampunk setting. I enjoyed this story a lot and thought it was all in all well done.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was a really well done story and a fun addition to the Steampunk Fairy Tales world. It is a sweet story and has a very wintery magical feel to it. I would recommend this story if you are looking for a heartwarming and magical story to read during the holiday season, especially if you enjoy steampunk worlds.
Story (4/5): This is a very cute winter holiday story. Scarlette is staying at her Uncle’s while her father travels, her Uncle resides in the village of Twickenham. Scarlette likes to stay busy and has taken to helping the pair of older sisters that runs the local toy store. They task her with figuring out how to make a toy piano player and Scarlette is up to the challenge. Meanwhile her uncle is hosting the Rude Mechanicals for the holidays, including a rather handsome young inventor who is drawn to Scarlette for both her tinkering talent and kind nature. When Scarlette starts tinkering with clockwork gnomes and strange goblin men get involved she finds that there is more than romance in the air, there may be magic as well.
I enjoyed this story a lot. It’s a cute and magical holiday read, that is fun and romantic. It leaves you feeling happy and light-hearted. This book is a precursor to other books in this series and describes the formation of the Red Cape Society (which is featured both in books in the Steampunk Fairy Tale series and in the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series).
Characters (4/5): Scarlette is a woman of privilege who goes out of her way to make sure everyone in Twickenham village is taken care of. I loved her kind and inquisitive nature, she was easy to engage with and fun to read about. Pretty much all of the characters in here were like that. They were all well developed, kind, and creative types.
Setting (4/5): Twickenham village is a magical winter setting that I really enjoyed getting to know. The description here is magical and makes it easy to picture the town and its simple winter beauty.
Writing Style (4/5): This is well written and easy to read. I enjoyed how both the story of “The Elves and the Shoemaker” and the poem of “The Goblin Market” were incorporated into this steampunk setting. I enjoyed this story a lot and thought it was all in all well done.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was a really well done story and a fun addition to the Steampunk Fairy Tales world. It is a sweet story and has a very wintery magical feel to it. I would recommend this story if you are looking for a heartwarming and magical story to read during the holiday season, especially if you enjoy steampunk worlds.
April 20, 2020
Oh what a pleasant surprise! I really enjoyed this one!
I liked Scarlette immediately and really enjoyed that she was genuinely so helpful and a thinker. Her thought processes were also quite nice and thankfully quite practical. Sometimes it happens that heroines seem to make bad decisions with such certainty of their being right, but that’s not the case here. Yes, you get the impression that there are things that shouldn’t be done (which she is also thinking) but at least she minimizes the hole she’s digging for herself. Really, she was quite sensible. I really felt her trepidation whenever she encountered the merchant troupe.
Speaking of the merchant troupe, man oh man did they creep me out! I started reading at 11pm so in the darkness they are extra creepy. Even if all they were doing (initially) was singing and being aggressive salespeople, they were still quite unsettling.
Archie was also such a sweetheart, and I liked him a lot too. I was quite happy to see he was actually helpful to Scarlette and that they really had a meeting of the minds too. I’d actually like to read a sequel or something with them in it. Perhaps with that Rossetti and Boatswain shop he proposed? ;)
Overall, a really enjoyable read that took me by surprise. I must remember to read it again around Christmas.
I liked Scarlette immediately and really enjoyed that she was genuinely so helpful and a thinker. Her thought processes were also quite nice and thankfully quite practical. Sometimes it happens that heroines seem to make bad decisions with such certainty of their being right, but that’s not the case here. Yes, you get the impression that there are things that shouldn’t be done (which she is also thinking) but at least she minimizes the hole she’s digging for herself. Really, she was quite sensible. I really felt her trepidation whenever she encountered the merchant troupe.
Speaking of the merchant troupe, man oh man did they creep me out! I started reading at 11pm so in the darkness they are extra creepy. Even if all they were doing (initially) was singing and being aggressive salespeople, they were still quite unsettling.
Archie was also such a sweetheart, and I liked him a lot too. I was quite happy to see he was actually helpful to Scarlette and that they really had a meeting of the minds too. I’d actually like to read a sequel or something with them in it. Perhaps with that Rossetti and Boatswain shop he proposed? ;)
Overall, a really enjoyable read that took me by surprise. I must remember to read it again around Christmas.
December 16, 2025
MY RATING GUIDE: 3.5 (rounded to 4 Stars). I found this a cute story but understand I missed the author’s ’Easter eggs’ as this is the first I have read by her. I love the cover.
1=DNF/What was that?; 2=Not for me; 3=Ok; 3.5=I ENJOYED THIS; 4=I really liked; 5=I really loved this! (5 is rare for me).
Twickenham, England, nearing Christmas ~
Miss Scarlett discovers secrets and love in the little village of Twickenham while the Christmas season draws near. She also realizes a tinkering talent she never knew she had.
Comments ~
GOBLINS & SNOWFLAKES, published in 2018, is a quick reading novella set during the Christmas season and based on the fairy tale, The Elves and the Shoemaker. The story contains Fairy Tale and Steampunk elements with a sweet HEA. The author mentions at the end of the story that this novella ties in with her other works. This was my first work by Karsak - the lovely cover and blurb caught my attention. I would imagine that readers familiar with her series would gain much more enjoyment by this ‘tie in’ story than I. I still enjoyed it but feel I missed a number of ‘Easter eggs’ due to ignorance. GOBLINS & SNOWFLAKES has spiked my interest in Karsak’s other books.
READER CAUTIONS ~ This is a G rated rendition of a fairy tale.
PROFANITY - None.
VIOLENCE - None.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
1=DNF/What was that?; 2=Not for me; 3=Ok; 3.5=I ENJOYED THIS; 4=I really liked; 5=I really loved this! (5 is rare for me).
Twickenham, England, nearing Christmas ~
Miss Scarlett discovers secrets and love in the little village of Twickenham while the Christmas season draws near. She also realizes a tinkering talent she never knew she had.
Comments ~
GOBLINS & SNOWFLAKES, published in 2018, is a quick reading novella set during the Christmas season and based on the fairy tale, The Elves and the Shoemaker. The story contains Fairy Tale and Steampunk elements with a sweet HEA. The author mentions at the end of the story that this novella ties in with her other works. This was my first work by Karsak - the lovely cover and blurb caught my attention. I would imagine that readers familiar with her series would gain much more enjoyment by this ‘tie in’ story than I. I still enjoyed it but feel I missed a number of ‘Easter eggs’ due to ignorance. GOBLINS & SNOWFLAKES has spiked my interest in Karsak’s other books.
READER CAUTIONS ~ This is a G rated rendition of a fairy tale.
PROFANITY - None.
VIOLENCE - None.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
December 22, 2022
Spoiler Free
This novella was the perfect winter read. It’s set in a cozy village during the Christmas season. There’s plenty of snow, delicious treats, romance and… goblins. There was a creepy element to this story that I wasn’t expecting but really enjoyed. The goblins were truly unsettling.
If you read my last review for Peppermint and Pentacles, also by Melanie Karsak, you might remember that it’s part of the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series and follows the escapades of the Red Cape Society. The Red Cape Society is basically law enforcement for supernatural creatures and in this novella, we see the start of the organization and meet the founding members. I love when authors tie their books together like that.
I truly have nothing bad to say about this. Karsak knows how to write an excellent, fully fleshed out story while keeping it at novella length. During the hectic holiday season, I prefer novellas so the three I’ve read from her have been exactly what I wanted.
For other reviews, go to https://thebookandbeautyblog.com/
This novella was the perfect winter read. It’s set in a cozy village during the Christmas season. There’s plenty of snow, delicious treats, romance and… goblins. There was a creepy element to this story that I wasn’t expecting but really enjoyed. The goblins were truly unsettling.
If you read my last review for Peppermint and Pentacles, also by Melanie Karsak, you might remember that it’s part of the Steampunk Red Riding Hood series and follows the escapades of the Red Cape Society. The Red Cape Society is basically law enforcement for supernatural creatures and in this novella, we see the start of the organization and meet the founding members. I love when authors tie their books together like that.
I truly have nothing bad to say about this. Karsak knows how to write an excellent, fully fleshed out story while keeping it at novella length. During the hectic holiday season, I prefer novellas so the three I’ve read from her have been exactly what I wanted.
For other reviews, go to https://thebookandbeautyblog.com/
November 28, 2018
This is my first book from Melanie Karsak -- and I picked up this novella simply because one of my favorite authors, Bec McMaster, put the cover of this book on her Pinterest account. I thought the cover was pretty, and I was intrigued with this steampunk retelling of Grimm's The Elves and the Shoemaker
Scarlette Rossetti is a great heroine! She's kindhearted -- she helps the people at Twickenham, including the dollmakers and a seamstress widow. But she's also very smart and resourceful -- the way she tinkers with the dolls and automaton, and later of course, when she . Archibald Boatswain the Third -- or Archie -- is right to be fascinated by her *laugh*. I think Archie is a good match for Scarlette, but she can definitely hold her own as well.
It's an enjoyable novella - and I like this universe Karsak writes. Maybe I'll check on her other steampunk works. The covers are definitely pretty ^^
Scarlette Rossetti is a great heroine! She's kindhearted -- she helps the people at Twickenham, including the dollmakers and a seamstress widow. But she's also very smart and resourceful -- the way she tinkers with the dolls and automaton, and later of course, when she . Archibald Boatswain the Third -- or Archie -- is right to be fascinated by her *laugh*. I think Archie is a good match for Scarlette, but she can definitely hold her own as well.
It's an enjoyable novella - and I like this universe Karsak writes. Maybe I'll check on her other steampunk works. The covers are definitely pretty ^^
October 23, 2022
Entertainment with a fantasy flare that will capture your heart! This sweet little Christmas novella is absolutely charming and perfectly paced. These characters were delightful and the tale gave me all the holiday cheer.
What made this such fun was the whimsy and the bits of magic and mayhem. I instantly fell for the independent main character who had a heart of gold and her adventure which was enchanting. The supporting characters were excellent and I wanted to pop in and have tea amongst them as I took in their world. A toy shop and secret meetings! What's not to be intrigued by?! I certainly wanted more because this was a world that kept my imagination riveted and wondering what would happen next.
If the idea of a holiday fairy tale retelling with supernatural touches and swoony characters sounds fantastic, you're going to want to purchase this beautiful book. There are bewitching surprises with spectacular world building. I've just found a new favorite to treasure!
What made this such fun was the whimsy and the bits of magic and mayhem. I instantly fell for the independent main character who had a heart of gold and her adventure which was enchanting. The supporting characters were excellent and I wanted to pop in and have tea amongst them as I took in their world. A toy shop and secret meetings! What's not to be intrigued by?! I certainly wanted more because this was a world that kept my imagination riveted and wondering what would happen next.
If the idea of a holiday fairy tale retelling with supernatural touches and swoony characters sounds fantastic, you're going to want to purchase this beautiful book. There are bewitching surprises with spectacular world building. I've just found a new favorite to treasure!
October 30, 2022
Entertainment with a fantasy flare that will capture your heart! This sweet little Christmas novella is absolutely charming and perfectly paced. These characters were delightful and the tale gave me all the holiday cheer.
What made this such fun was the whimsy and the bits of magic and mayhem. I instantly fell for the independent main character who had a heart of gold and her adventure which was enchanting. The supporting characters were excellent and I wanted to pop in and have tea amongst them as I took in their world. A toy shop and secret meetings! What's not to be intrigued by?! I certainly wanted more because this was a world that kept my imagination riveted and wondering what would happen next.
If the idea of a holiday fairy tale retelling with supernatural touches and swoony characters sounds fantastic, you're going to want to purchase this beautiful book. There are bewitching surprises with spectacular world building. I've just found a new favorite to treasure!
What made this such fun was the whimsy and the bits of magic and mayhem. I instantly fell for the independent main character who had a heart of gold and her adventure which was enchanting. The supporting characters were excellent and I wanted to pop in and have tea amongst them as I took in their world. A toy shop and secret meetings! What's not to be intrigued by?! I certainly wanted more because this was a world that kept my imagination riveted and wondering what would happen next.
If the idea of a holiday fairy tale retelling with supernatural touches and swoony characters sounds fantastic, you're going to want to purchase this beautiful book. There are bewitching surprises with spectacular world building. I've just found a new favorite to treasure!
December 19, 2019
2 stars feels a little harsh to me, but there wasn't a whole lot going for this book.
Usually I reserve a 2 star rating for books that are badly written, which isn't necessarily the case for this, but there just wasn't anything happening until over halfway through the book.
For a story that is only 100 or so pages, something needs to happen before I read 50% of it.
And another thing, this is supposed to be a retelling of The Elves and The Shoemaker with a little bit of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti thrown in, but neither of those things truly come into play until the book is almost over and even then they don't matter much. Hardly any time is spent on either of them and it feels like they're more a part of the background than the main story.
The writing was okay, but other than that there isn't much to this story.
Usually I reserve a 2 star rating for books that are badly written, which isn't necessarily the case for this, but there just wasn't anything happening until over halfway through the book.
For a story that is only 100 or so pages, something needs to happen before I read 50% of it.
And another thing, this is supposed to be a retelling of The Elves and The Shoemaker with a little bit of Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti thrown in, but neither of those things truly come into play until the book is almost over and even then they don't matter much. Hardly any time is spent on either of them and it feels like they're more a part of the background than the main story.
The writing was okay, but other than that there isn't much to this story.
February 26, 2023
I liked this book, but it was too short to show enough of the characters and their stories.
I liked Scarlette and her tinkering was interesting, but I wanted to see more of it. Archie was fine, but he didn’t really have a personality. There were some other characters mentioned, but they were always in the background.
I liked the idea of the gnomes, but they weren’t really shown doing anything. Also, there was something about a secret society, but I had no idea what their purpose was. It could just be that I haven’t read the previous books in this series, but it’s not even shown how Scarlette got a pin. In one chapter she’s confused about what the pins symbolise, and then in the next she has one.
I think that if this book was a bit longer, I really would have liked the characters and the plot. I might try some of the other books in this series though.
I liked Scarlette and her tinkering was interesting, but I wanted to see more of it. Archie was fine, but he didn’t really have a personality. There were some other characters mentioned, but they were always in the background.
I liked the idea of the gnomes, but they weren’t really shown doing anything. Also, there was something about a secret society, but I had no idea what their purpose was. It could just be that I haven’t read the previous books in this series, but it’s not even shown how Scarlette got a pin. In one chapter she’s confused about what the pins symbolise, and then in the next she has one.
I think that if this book was a bit longer, I really would have liked the characters and the plot. I might try some of the other books in this series though.
December 8, 2020
Short, fast, and romantic story full of festive mood, radiating the Christmas atmosphere, magic, love, and beauty of the fairytales. This creative steampunk retelling brought smile to my face and improved my day in these hard times, warming my heart and brightening my mood. Scarlette is an adorable woman, with heart full of love and skillful fingers, and with mind full of creative ideas. Her meeting with Archie and their share of mutual interests brought the couple naturally together, even in the short time they have known each other. And the goblins gave the story the right magical/ fairy tale feeling. It's been some time since I last read a book by this author, and this little one was waiting on my device for more than a year, but I am extremely glad I picked it today for reading.
December 16, 2020
4.5 Stars
I absolutely loved this story. I'm not very familiar with the fairy tale it was based on, but that didn't hinder my enjoyment one bit. It's a super fun Christmassy read that transported me right into the story. Seriously, that first chapter? It made me so hungry! All those baked goods were described so well that I could almost taste them!
The characters were great and the romance was sweet. Scarlette and Archie had such great camaraderie. They were the perfect pair.
The world building was stunning. I'm so excited there are more books set in this world for me to explore! I can't wait to check them out. If you're a fan of steampunk or fairy tales, check this novella out. I highly recommend it.
I absolutely loved this story. I'm not very familiar with the fairy tale it was based on, but that didn't hinder my enjoyment one bit. It's a super fun Christmassy read that transported me right into the story. Seriously, that first chapter? It made me so hungry! All those baked goods were described so well that I could almost taste them!
The characters were great and the romance was sweet. Scarlette and Archie had such great camaraderie. They were the perfect pair.
The world building was stunning. I'm so excited there are more books set in this world for me to explore! I can't wait to check them out. If you're a fan of steampunk or fairy tales, check this novella out. I highly recommend it.
February 3, 2020
This is a lovely expansion of the fairytale about the shoemaker and the elves. The elves are replaced with automaton gnomes in a toy shop.
Scarlette Rossetti is staying with her "uncle" Earl Walpole. Walpole holds a meeting of tinkers and thinkers close to Christmas at his house near Twickenham.
Scarlette helps in the toy shop in the village and encounters a "market" on her walk to and from town.
I don't know enough of Melanie Karsak's work to understand fully the references to Red Capes and Rude Mechanicals, but the entire story is enjoyable. I look forward to future encounters with Karsak's stories.
Scarlette Rossetti is staying with her "uncle" Earl Walpole. Walpole holds a meeting of tinkers and thinkers close to Christmas at his house near Twickenham.
Scarlette helps in the toy shop in the village and encounters a "market" on her walk to and from town.
I don't know enough of Melanie Karsak's work to understand fully the references to Red Capes and Rude Mechanicals, but the entire story is enjoyable. I look forward to future encounters with Karsak's stories.
December 16, 2023
Beautiful rendition of an often forgotten tale
Oh, I don’t think I’ve ever read a retelling of the Elves and the Shoemaker! I love when authors dip into old stories we all know and give them a new twist.
And what a perfect setting for it! The steampunk aesthetic lends itself perfectly into the story and the author takes full advantage of it! I loved how the story of shoes was conveyed into automatons and toys! What a perfect way to set up a Christmas tale!
Scarlette is a beautiful protagonist—kind, intelligent but not unrealistic. I adored all her relationships here!
A beautiful new rendition, perfect for the holidays!
Oh, I don’t think I’ve ever read a retelling of the Elves and the Shoemaker! I love when authors dip into old stories we all know and give them a new twist.
And what a perfect setting for it! The steampunk aesthetic lends itself perfectly into the story and the author takes full advantage of it! I loved how the story of shoes was conveyed into automatons and toys! What a perfect way to set up a Christmas tale!
Scarlette is a beautiful protagonist—kind, intelligent but not unrealistic. I adored all her relationships here!
A beautiful new rendition, perfect for the holidays!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews