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The Dryad's Cede
THE DRYAD’S CEDE is a collection of three original stories inspired by the characters from the tales of Hans Christian Andersen. The three stories are loosely connected to each other, and while they can be read in any order, the author recommends starting with KINDLED EMBERS, then visiting the past for the short bonus tale of SPRING TYDE, before proceeding to FEATHER FROST.
Kindled Embers:
When the Royal Pearl is stolen from the Palace, Eliza's foster father becomes the main suspect. The police assume the verse left behind is the thief's calling card, but Eliza believes it may be a riddle. The two embark on an adventure to clear his name, where Eliza proves to him just how resourceful a twelve-year-old girl can be.
Feather Frost:
Five years later, Eliza and her friends are brought together once again: When Prince Anders disappears from the Palace in very mysterious circumstances, his childhood friend Eliza suspects there may be truth in the myths and legends of the land. The decision to test her theories results in a test of her own strengths, and in searching for the missing Prince she finds answers to questions about her own past.
Spring Tyde:
Some 400 years earlier than Eliza’s adventures comes the short story that led to the legend of the Dryad’s Cede: Chastain is a dryad who has spent decades alone in the meadow where her chestnut tree grows. When Freddie stumbles across the meadow one day, an unexpected friendship develops between the lonely dryad and the ten-year-old little prince.
Kindled Embers:
When the Royal Pearl is stolen from the Palace, Eliza's foster father becomes the main suspect. The police assume the verse left behind is the thief's calling card, but Eliza believes it may be a riddle. The two embark on an adventure to clear his name, where Eliza proves to him just how resourceful a twelve-year-old girl can be.
Feather Frost:
Five years later, Eliza and her friends are brought together once again: When Prince Anders disappears from the Palace in very mysterious circumstances, his childhood friend Eliza suspects there may be truth in the myths and legends of the land. The decision to test her theories results in a test of her own strengths, and in searching for the missing Prince she finds answers to questions about her own past.
Spring Tyde:
Some 400 years earlier than Eliza’s adventures comes the short story that led to the legend of the Dryad’s Cede: Chastain is a dryad who has spent decades alone in the meadow where her chestnut tree grows. When Freddie stumbles across the meadow one day, an unexpected friendship develops between the lonely dryad and the ten-year-old little prince.
- GenresMiddle Grade
324 pages, Paperback
Published December 1, 2020
17 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Simos
8 books5 followersK. C. Simos is the author of middle-grade series 'The Dryad's Cede', and YA trilogy 'Ambrosia Chronicles'.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
July 22, 2025
A wonderful set of 3 short stories with the perfect elements for those who love fairy tales. We recognize many elements (some only true fairy tale lovers will. Eliza is a wonderful character. I love the mystery (clear father's name) story a lot, but also the legend one that takes us to the past is very magical.
April 10, 2024
I enjoyed reading these stories. Eliza is a character with ties in 2 of the tales which I enjoyed seeing. She is loyal, determined and free spirited. The writing created a strong sense of place and was so descriptive. I rarely read middle grade but this is a collection I’d definitely recommend.
April 18, 2024
A lovely collection of cosy, whimsical fairytales!
June 17, 2021
This book includes all three books in the Dryad’s Cede series. It is an entertaining modern fairytale for fans of Hans Christian Andersen. Below are my reviews of each of the installments!
Kindled Embers
Twelve-year-old Eliza has grown up as a beloved servant of the Palace, under the watchful gaze of her benefactor, Jonas. For the past year, Jonas and King Christian have been away at war, which is something they never want to repeat. In order to bring peace to the kingdom, King Christian decides to arrange his son Anders’ marriage—but Anders has other plans. When a prized gem goes missing from the Palace and Jonas is framed for the crime, Eliza and Jonas set off on an adventure to clear his name, and their journey ends up being more important than they realize.
This captivating and enjoyable middle grade story reads quickly because of the engrossing nature of the narrative. Clues are planted throughout the tale, leading readers to piece together the mystery along with the characters. Rich descriptions, action-focused text, and believable dialogue blend together to create a page-turning adventure for readers of all ages.
Placed in a fictionalized kingdom, the characters all speak with the refined elegance of English royalty. References to familiar classical literature anchor the story on Earth even when other elements are not recognizable. Subtle references to romantic interest and nuanced human relationships are important inclusions in the narrative, giving the story a humanistic feel alongside the action-oriented plot. Though Eliza is twelve years old, the complexity and maturity of the writing and story will appeal to older readers, as well.
This reimagining of The Princess and the Pea wrapped in a compelling, clue-driven mystery is one that will entertain a wide range of readers. Presented in a concise, well-executed package, readers will find themselves arriving at the satisfying ending feeling like no time has passed. Expertly crafted, this tale is developed for a sequel for which readers will be waiting with great anticipation. This is a highly recommended addition to libraries for middle grade readers with an interest in period-style fairy tale mysteries.
Feather Frost
Seventeen-year-old Eliza is no longer the tenacious twelve-year-old she once was; she has blossomed into an intelligent and beautiful young woman. After her benefactor, Jonas, was knighted by King Christian, Eliza transitioned into a life she never expected. Attending boarding school in the Capital, she is learning more about the greater world while coming into her own and embracing her new life. Returning home for the Christmas holidays, Eliza encounters several childhood companions, all of whom have grown up, as well. Adventurous Prince Anders proudly recounts a recent, harrowing mountain experience, and when he disappears suddenly from the palace, Eliza follows a hunch that may be the only way to bring him back.
This is the conclusion to the Dryad’s Cede series, beginning five years after the conclusion of Kindled Embers. Though it involves characters from the first novel, this book can stand on its own, as well. Reminders of events that took place in the first story are peppered throughout this narrative to give readers an orientation into Eliza’s world, whether or not they read the first installment.
Inspired by the works of Hans Christian Andersen, this story is written to be accessible to younger readers while simultaneously appealing to older ones, as well. Because Eliza is seventeen, this story includes slightly more romance and peril than the previous installment, but it still revolves around the general feeling of a fairy tale. Various supernatural additions enhance the mystery Eliza sets out to solve, flavoring Eliza’s backstory in a compelling way.
Beautiful, descriptive language fills this book, transporting readers into Eliza’s world and keeping them there until the story’s conclusion. Familiar stories like The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Wild Swans are reimagined here, connecting readers to a modern fairy tale experience. It is highly recommended to read this book along with the rest of the series, and this is a delightful addition to family read-aloud collections.
Spring Tyde
Over four hundred years ago, a story began that would affect the lives of generations to come. Chastain is a wood nymph, a dryad, who shares her heart with a great chestnut tree in the middle of a meadow. Far from the neighboring forest, she often feels distant from her kin and spends her time appreciating the natural beauty around her. One day, a young boy finds his way to the base of Chastain’s tree and quietly spends his time unknowingly in her presence. After several visits, the two officially meet and forge an unforgettable friendship.
The prequel to Kindled Embers, the first in the Dryad’s Cede series, this short story explains the origin of the kingdom’s most prized possession. Though the story itself is short in length, its depth and beauty are reminiscent of the fairy tales it was inspired by. Mentions of magic, nature fairies, and far away kingdoms give the story the feeling of a forgotten fable, especially as it teaches several meaningful lessons in an accessible way.
Beautifully descriptive language gives readers a clear sense of the locations and emotions described in the story. The bond between Chastain and Prince Frederick is rich, transcending their individual backgrounds. As in many fairy tales, this story reflects the fact that it is those who are true of heart who are most deserving of life’s bounty.
Though this is a piece of the Dryad’s Cede series, Spring Tyde can easily be read on its own. Elegantly presented and memorable, this story is just the right length for its intended purpose. Readers who enjoy fairy tales, especially those by Hans Christian Andersen, will appreciate this reimagining and look forward to reading the other installments in this series. This is a delightful and well-written story for teens and adults of all ages.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
Kindled Embers
Twelve-year-old Eliza has grown up as a beloved servant of the Palace, under the watchful gaze of her benefactor, Jonas. For the past year, Jonas and King Christian have been away at war, which is something they never want to repeat. In order to bring peace to the kingdom, King Christian decides to arrange his son Anders’ marriage—but Anders has other plans. When a prized gem goes missing from the Palace and Jonas is framed for the crime, Eliza and Jonas set off on an adventure to clear his name, and their journey ends up being more important than they realize.
This captivating and enjoyable middle grade story reads quickly because of the engrossing nature of the narrative. Clues are planted throughout the tale, leading readers to piece together the mystery along with the characters. Rich descriptions, action-focused text, and believable dialogue blend together to create a page-turning adventure for readers of all ages.
Placed in a fictionalized kingdom, the characters all speak with the refined elegance of English royalty. References to familiar classical literature anchor the story on Earth even when other elements are not recognizable. Subtle references to romantic interest and nuanced human relationships are important inclusions in the narrative, giving the story a humanistic feel alongside the action-oriented plot. Though Eliza is twelve years old, the complexity and maturity of the writing and story will appeal to older readers, as well.
This reimagining of The Princess and the Pea wrapped in a compelling, clue-driven mystery is one that will entertain a wide range of readers. Presented in a concise, well-executed package, readers will find themselves arriving at the satisfying ending feeling like no time has passed. Expertly crafted, this tale is developed for a sequel for which readers will be waiting with great anticipation. This is a highly recommended addition to libraries for middle grade readers with an interest in period-style fairy tale mysteries.
Feather Frost
Seventeen-year-old Eliza is no longer the tenacious twelve-year-old she once was; she has blossomed into an intelligent and beautiful young woman. After her benefactor, Jonas, was knighted by King Christian, Eliza transitioned into a life she never expected. Attending boarding school in the Capital, she is learning more about the greater world while coming into her own and embracing her new life. Returning home for the Christmas holidays, Eliza encounters several childhood companions, all of whom have grown up, as well. Adventurous Prince Anders proudly recounts a recent, harrowing mountain experience, and when he disappears suddenly from the palace, Eliza follows a hunch that may be the only way to bring him back.
This is the conclusion to the Dryad’s Cede series, beginning five years after the conclusion of Kindled Embers. Though it involves characters from the first novel, this book can stand on its own, as well. Reminders of events that took place in the first story are peppered throughout this narrative to give readers an orientation into Eliza’s world, whether or not they read the first installment.
Inspired by the works of Hans Christian Andersen, this story is written to be accessible to younger readers while simultaneously appealing to older ones, as well. Because Eliza is seventeen, this story includes slightly more romance and peril than the previous installment, but it still revolves around the general feeling of a fairy tale. Various supernatural additions enhance the mystery Eliza sets out to solve, flavoring Eliza’s backstory in a compelling way.
Beautiful, descriptive language fills this book, transporting readers into Eliza’s world and keeping them there until the story’s conclusion. Familiar stories like The Emperor’s New Clothes and The Wild Swans are reimagined here, connecting readers to a modern fairy tale experience. It is highly recommended to read this book along with the rest of the series, and this is a delightful addition to family read-aloud collections.
Spring Tyde
Over four hundred years ago, a story began that would affect the lives of generations to come. Chastain is a wood nymph, a dryad, who shares her heart with a great chestnut tree in the middle of a meadow. Far from the neighboring forest, she often feels distant from her kin and spends her time appreciating the natural beauty around her. One day, a young boy finds his way to the base of Chastain’s tree and quietly spends his time unknowingly in her presence. After several visits, the two officially meet and forge an unforgettable friendship.
The prequel to Kindled Embers, the first in the Dryad’s Cede series, this short story explains the origin of the kingdom’s most prized possession. Though the story itself is short in length, its depth and beauty are reminiscent of the fairy tales it was inspired by. Mentions of magic, nature fairies, and far away kingdoms give the story the feeling of a forgotten fable, especially as it teaches several meaningful lessons in an accessible way.
Beautifully descriptive language gives readers a clear sense of the locations and emotions described in the story. The bond between Chastain and Prince Frederick is rich, transcending their individual backgrounds. As in many fairy tales, this story reflects the fact that it is those who are true of heart who are most deserving of life’s bounty.
Though this is a piece of the Dryad’s Cede series, Spring Tyde can easily be read on its own. Elegantly presented and memorable, this story is just the right length for its intended purpose. Readers who enjoy fairy tales, especially those by Hans Christian Andersen, will appreciate this reimagining and look forward to reading the other installments in this series. This is a delightful and well-written story for teens and adults of all ages.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
April 30, 2024
I love fairy tales, I grew up reading them and as an adult, retelling is one of my favorite subgenres. Thanks to @mtmctours I read The Dyrad's Cede by @kcsimos, it is a collection of 3 interconnected short stories inspired by the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen. Such a charming read, the tales are atmospheric, mysterious, and magical. The author's style preserves the classic vibes, it's cozy and nostalgic.
It's not a retelling of a single story, but all of Andersen's stories are interwoven to create a longer story, there are some more obvious appearances (like the snow queen). But if you are a fan of the original fairytales, you will see the tribute subtleties of certain characters.
In the first two stories, the protagonist is Eliza, who solves mysteries, she is intelligent, loyal, and adventurous. In the first story, she is 12 years old, her father is blamed for a robbery and they both investigate who the real culprit is, they will travel all over the kingdom, and will receive help from unexpected characters, it's charming, their relationship is sweet. The biggest inspiration I think is the Tin Soldier,
A few years have passed when the second story occurs, the prince has disappeared and the queen asks Eliza to investigate. The biggest inspiration was the Ice Queen. The setting is wonderful, cold, and magical.
The third was my favorite, it is the one that I think reminds me of a fairy tale, it is also the shortest (just like the classic tales), it takes place a few centuries before and is the story of friendship between the prince of the kingdom and a Dryad, it was cute, and heartbroken at the same time.
The world-building is wonderful, we have the classic mix of royalty, magic, creatures, and forests: it never fails. Magic is in the air, it is not a world with a magic system with many explanations of how it works, there is no magic as such, it is subtle, it is rather that there are magical creatures everywhere, magic happens because it's a fairytale.
Those are lovely tales, middle-grade stories suitable for adults who still love magic.
Read it if you like
Fairytales
Short Stories
It's not a retelling of a single story, but all of Andersen's stories are interwoven to create a longer story, there are some more obvious appearances (like the snow queen). But if you are a fan of the original fairytales, you will see the tribute subtleties of certain characters.
In the first two stories, the protagonist is Eliza, who solves mysteries, she is intelligent, loyal, and adventurous. In the first story, she is 12 years old, her father is blamed for a robbery and they both investigate who the real culprit is, they will travel all over the kingdom, and will receive help from unexpected characters, it's charming, their relationship is sweet. The biggest inspiration I think is the Tin Soldier,
A few years have passed when the second story occurs, the prince has disappeared and the queen asks Eliza to investigate. The biggest inspiration was the Ice Queen. The setting is wonderful, cold, and magical.
The third was my favorite, it is the one that I think reminds me of a fairy tale, it is also the shortest (just like the classic tales), it takes place a few centuries before and is the story of friendship between the prince of the kingdom and a Dryad, it was cute, and heartbroken at the same time.
The world-building is wonderful, we have the classic mix of royalty, magic, creatures, and forests: it never fails. Magic is in the air, it is not a world with a magic system with many explanations of how it works, there is no magic as such, it is subtle, it is rather that there are magical creatures everywhere, magic happens because it's a fairytale.
Those are lovely tales, middle-grade stories suitable for adults who still love magic.
Read it if you like
Fairytales
Short Stories
December 8, 2020
Anyone who enjoys fairy tale and myth retellings is going to enjoy this one quite a bit.
While there is a main character, which threads through two of the tales, it's still a clever and wide weave of various tales and myths. Some are only slightly nodded at, while others swing with refreshing twists and places as Eliza works her way through several adventures. It was fun to see the different known characters from these traditional stories swing in with sometimes familiar and other times new aspects. And while there are familiar moments, the tales are by no means easy to predict. Eliza definitely has her work cut out for her as she solves various mysteries, meets old and new friends, and comes up against some very tricky odds.
The second tale shows the background of what is actually at the mid-point of this collection—the legend of the Dryad's Cede. It fills in the gaps which would otherwise leave the other two stories a little more empty on this end.
But what I still enjoyed most about this tale is Eliza. She's gentle hearted, determined, has a free spirit, and posses tons of loyalty. In this way, she holds many of the traditional values I always treasure in the original tales, and yet, she has enough of a slightly more modern flair to make her easy to like. It'd be wonderful to be able to accompany her on these adventures.
The stories are for teens, but I'd recommend them for upper middle-graders as well. There isn't any questionable content in any way shape or form, and this age group will enjoy her as much as the slightly older one will (or as much as I did as an adult). Because this one is about friendship, adventure, determination, caring, beating impossible odds, and simply a wonderful dive into old folklore, too.
While there is a main character, which threads through two of the tales, it's still a clever and wide weave of various tales and myths. Some are only slightly nodded at, while others swing with refreshing twists and places as Eliza works her way through several adventures. It was fun to see the different known characters from these traditional stories swing in with sometimes familiar and other times new aspects. And while there are familiar moments, the tales are by no means easy to predict. Eliza definitely has her work cut out for her as she solves various mysteries, meets old and new friends, and comes up against some very tricky odds.
The second tale shows the background of what is actually at the mid-point of this collection—the legend of the Dryad's Cede. It fills in the gaps which would otherwise leave the other two stories a little more empty on this end.
But what I still enjoyed most about this tale is Eliza. She's gentle hearted, determined, has a free spirit, and posses tons of loyalty. In this way, she holds many of the traditional values I always treasure in the original tales, and yet, she has enough of a slightly more modern flair to make her easy to like. It'd be wonderful to be able to accompany her on these adventures.
The stories are for teens, but I'd recommend them for upper middle-graders as well. There isn't any questionable content in any way shape or form, and this age group will enjoy her as much as the slightly older one will (or as much as I did as an adult). Because this one is about friendship, adventure, determination, caring, beating impossible odds, and simply a wonderful dive into old folklore, too.
April 14, 2024
The Dryad’s Cede is actually a series, and contains 3 books (well, two books and a prequel that’s a novella). There’s a lot of whimsy, fairytale vibes to this series, yet also mystery involved in each tale. This book is listed as middle grade, however I felt it could be enjoyable for all age ranges! (Though I will say, if you or a child who is interested in reading is sensitive to death, there is some deaths included in this, however the scenes are not gory and it’s not graphic.) While not scary, it is sad.😔
I enjoyed reading these stories which were sort of like unique mashed up versions of familiar tales from childhood, and some that aren’t very common. Some I wasn’t familiar with, but I definitely picked up on many and I feel readers will too, and be delighted by tales they aren’t used to seeing retold (such as the tin soldier and swan lake).💂🦢
There is a lot of adventure packed inside, and it will have you wanting to keep the pages turning so you can find answers and more on what happens!😱
Overall, I enjoyed all the books, but I think the final one had the most suspense and nail-biting scenario! I definitely recommend reading them in the order the author suggests on the back of the book! 📚
Overall, I rather this series as a whole:
🌟🌟🌟🌟/ 5 Stars (4/5)
I enjoyed reading these stories which were sort of like unique mashed up versions of familiar tales from childhood, and some that aren’t very common. Some I wasn’t familiar with, but I definitely picked up on many and I feel readers will too, and be delighted by tales they aren’t used to seeing retold (such as the tin soldier and swan lake).💂🦢
There is a lot of adventure packed inside, and it will have you wanting to keep the pages turning so you can find answers and more on what happens!😱
Overall, I enjoyed all the books, but I think the final one had the most suspense and nail-biting scenario! I definitely recommend reading them in the order the author suggests on the back of the book! 📚
Overall, I rather this series as a whole:
🌟🌟🌟🌟/ 5 Stars (4/5)
April 8, 2024
"A true fairy tale transports the child into another world on an adventure, yes, but it doesn't forget that there are adults in the room also, and they ought to be extended the same courtesy and at least be invited along. That makes a good fairy tale."
I binge read The Dryad's Cede and was so completely taken by the three stories included in this volume. 👏 I rarely read until late at night, but I couldn't help myself. Once I finished Kindled Embers, I knew I won't be putting this book down soon.
This middle grade series features modern fairytales that even adults can enjoy. The writing is descriptive and the worldbuilding is wonderful. Kingdoms, kings and princes along with magical creatures such as dryads - the perfect book to get lost in. Did I mention there is adventure! 🤩 The cover is absolutely beautiful and the book found its way to my five star shelf! 💫🙌
Many thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
I binge read The Dryad's Cede and was so completely taken by the three stories included in this volume. 👏 I rarely read until late at night, but I couldn't help myself. Once I finished Kindled Embers, I knew I won't be putting this book down soon.
This middle grade series features modern fairytales that even adults can enjoy. The writing is descriptive and the worldbuilding is wonderful. Kingdoms, kings and princes along with magical creatures such as dryads - the perfect book to get lost in. Did I mention there is adventure! 🤩 The cover is absolutely beautiful and the book found its way to my five star shelf! 💫🙌
Many thanks to MTMC Tours and the author for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2021
A bind-up of the 3 stories that make up The Dryad's Cede, this middle grade mystery/fantasy novel is a great read!
We follow Eliza as she first solves the mystery of a missing treasure, and then the mystery of a missing person. Throughout this, we get slowly introduced to the magic of this beautiful world, and see snippets of some classic fairy tales woven throughout.
The characters were entirely loveable, and it was great watching their relationships with each other develop. There was also the hint of a love triangle, which was really well written.
Overall, a great read for any age (though there are some deaths, so keep that in mind. They're very peaceful deaths, but could be difficult for children). In particular I think this series would be great for young girls, as Eliza is a fantastic role model.
We follow Eliza as she first solves the mystery of a missing treasure, and then the mystery of a missing person. Throughout this, we get slowly introduced to the magic of this beautiful world, and see snippets of some classic fairy tales woven throughout.
The characters were entirely loveable, and it was great watching their relationships with each other develop. There was also the hint of a love triangle, which was really well written.
Overall, a great read for any age (though there are some deaths, so keep that in mind. They're very peaceful deaths, but could be difficult for children). In particular I think this series would be great for young girls, as Eliza is a fantastic role model.
April 10, 2024
Reading this series was like revisiting my childhood all over again! Featuring exciting folk tales coming to life and the adventure of one little girl Eliza and her role in the midst of all the activity. Eliza is the FMC of two of the stories, and she's easily loveable with her free spirited ways. She's a servant to the royal family, but this isn't one of those harsh royal families, everyone interacts very easily. But Eliza is also close with the two princes who are near her age and as the adventures unwind, she's always at the center of activity!
It's also great for all ages. I'm going to be incorporating this into our family reading time as I think my kiddos will enjoy the excitement, lore and adventures in these stories!
It's also great for all ages. I'm going to be incorporating this into our family reading time as I think my kiddos will enjoy the excitement, lore and adventures in these stories!
April 17, 2024
The Dryad's Cede by K. C. Simos is a charming collection of three interconnected fairy tale adventures. From the gripping mystery of 'Kindled Embers' to the romantic quest in 'Feather Frost' and the enchanting origin story of 'Spring Tyde,' each tale is beautifully crafted with rich descriptions and engaging characters. I was delightfully surprised with how much I enjoyed these stories. They offered a delightful blend of traditional values with modern writing. Simos's writing style made The Dryad's Cede a captivating read for anyone seeking a quick fairy tale adventure.
Highly recommend if you are a fan of fairy tale retellings.
Highly recommend if you are a fan of fairy tale retellings.
May 7, 2024
this book is a collection of three middle grade fantasy short stories based on fairy tales by hans christian andersen, and are all interconnected, but can be read in any order.
the first one introduces us to the characters in a fictional kingdom that are featured in two of the stories (the second one set six years after the first). our main character, eliza, is a plucky, spirited, kindhearted girl and captured my heart from the very beginning. due to the nature of the genre, the whole book is very fast-paced — in a good way, because i never felt myself getting bored or bogged down. simos perfectly captures that middle grade charm that makes fairy tale retellings timeless stories for all ages.
the second story reads a bit more like YA — not because of content or anything inappropriate, but because the characters are now older teenagers and that coming-of-age element creeps in as well as lovely hints of romance. simos manages to give a full and complete vision of the whimsical world the book is set in, with all the nature magic and royalty dynamics, which is a difficult task for a couple short stories, and i loved it!
part of the way she accomplishes that is the third story itself, which tells the tale of a folk legend famous within the world of the first two stories (which is a narrative element i always love — it gives a deeper insight into the worldbuilding while still being entertaining). the ending was bittersweet but such a beautiful way to finish the collection.
the first one introduces us to the characters in a fictional kingdom that are featured in two of the stories (the second one set six years after the first). our main character, eliza, is a plucky, spirited, kindhearted girl and captured my heart from the very beginning. due to the nature of the genre, the whole book is very fast-paced — in a good way, because i never felt myself getting bored or bogged down. simos perfectly captures that middle grade charm that makes fairy tale retellings timeless stories for all ages.
the second story reads a bit more like YA — not because of content or anything inappropriate, but because the characters are now older teenagers and that coming-of-age element creeps in as well as lovely hints of romance. simos manages to give a full and complete vision of the whimsical world the book is set in, with all the nature magic and royalty dynamics, which is a difficult task for a couple short stories, and i loved it!
part of the way she accomplishes that is the third story itself, which tells the tale of a folk legend famous within the world of the first two stories (which is a narrative element i always love — it gives a deeper insight into the worldbuilding while still being entertaining). the ending was bittersweet but such a beautiful way to finish the collection.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews