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Cinders In Midnight Glass #1
Heart of Cinders
Her world was turned to ashes and soot, now she’s out to return the favor. One knife to the heart at a time.
War destroyed her lands and killed her parents. In the seven years since, Cinder forged herself into a killer at the behest of her brother, Duke Ash. Now, she acts as a highly trained assassin, dealing out justice on behalf of the Duke.
The siblings dream of exacting the ultimate revenge upon King Tristan, the man they think is responsible for the death of their parents. When opportunity strikes, Duke Ash dispatches Cinder to King Tristan’s palace to masquerade as one of the King’s potential future brides.
King Tristan would have never imagined that a Lady and a potential bride would arrive with a knife hidden in her dress and a heart full of cinders.
War destroyed her lands and killed her parents. In the seven years since, Cinder forged herself into a killer at the behest of her brother, Duke Ash. Now, she acts as a highly trained assassin, dealing out justice on behalf of the Duke.
The siblings dream of exacting the ultimate revenge upon King Tristan, the man they think is responsible for the death of their parents. When opportunity strikes, Duke Ash dispatches Cinder to King Tristan’s palace to masquerade as one of the King’s potential future brides.
King Tristan would have never imagined that a Lady and a potential bride would arrive with a knife hidden in her dress and a heart full of cinders.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 19, 2021
8 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 5, 2022
Heart of Cinders is the first in a trilogy that is a loose Cinderella retelling. Series follows Cinder, an assassin as she is sent in her most dangerous and important mission yet, kill the king. Cinder’s parents were murdered when she was young, leaving her in the car of her abusive brother Ash. She knows nothing of life beyond being her brother’s sword arm. Her brother Ash dispatches her to King Tristan’s palace to masquerade as one of his possible suitors. But as Cinder gets to know the king, she finds that things might not be as she was led to believe. I had some mixed feelings while reading this book that I will get into below.
Let me start by saying that nothing was inherently bad about this book. Its more that certain aspects weren’t working for me. First the world building had me kind of confused. I never really understood the different dukedoms and the war that had happened. I feel like a map would have GREATLY improved my reading experience so that I can identify people with their “areas” and the fighting ect. My next issue was that there were times this book dragged. Mostly while Cinder was at Court. And this wouldn’t have been an issue if I’d been invested in Cinder romancing Tristan. But it took about half of the book for me to care about Tristan and Cinder as a couple. Though spoiler, once I did care, I was HIGHLY invested.
So why did I still give this book 4 stars? Because I’m a sucker for the “I have come to kill you! OH NO!! I LOOOOOOVE YOU!!” trope. Its cheesy and predictable but its my bread and butter. Also as mentioned above, I did really ship Tristan with Cinder. I liked seeing them train together and really come to understand the other. Another thing I appreciated was that we are not just told that Cinder is an Assassin. The book opens up with her murdering someone. I enjoyed seeing Cinder really start to put together the pieces of what Ash has been telling her as well as what he has NOT been telling her.
Overall, I look forward to seeing Cinder overcome her brother and learn to process the abuse she has been living with. I am also here for all the swoony Cinder and Tristan kisses.
Note: TW for physical & mental abuse.
Let me start by saying that nothing was inherently bad about this book. Its more that certain aspects weren’t working for me. First the world building had me kind of confused. I never really understood the different dukedoms and the war that had happened. I feel like a map would have GREATLY improved my reading experience so that I can identify people with their “areas” and the fighting ect. My next issue was that there were times this book dragged. Mostly while Cinder was at Court. And this wouldn’t have been an issue if I’d been invested in Cinder romancing Tristan. But it took about half of the book for me to care about Tristan and Cinder as a couple. Though spoiler, once I did care, I was HIGHLY invested.
So why did I still give this book 4 stars? Because I’m a sucker for the “I have come to kill you! OH NO!! I LOOOOOOVE YOU!!” trope. Its cheesy and predictable but its my bread and butter. Also as mentioned above, I did really ship Tristan with Cinder. I liked seeing them train together and really come to understand the other. Another thing I appreciated was that we are not just told that Cinder is an Assassin. The book opens up with her murdering someone. I enjoyed seeing Cinder really start to put together the pieces of what Ash has been telling her as well as what he has NOT been telling her.
Overall, I look forward to seeing Cinder overcome her brother and learn to process the abuse she has been living with. I am also here for all the swoony Cinder and Tristan kisses.
Note: TW for physical & mental abuse.
April 4, 2022
I received a free copy via BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
Heart of Cinders and I didn't have an easy start, but towards the end, I grew to love the book and would like to know what's next.
What was difficult for me? The book is marketed as a loose retelling based on Cinderella's fairy tale: Honestly, if I hadn't read that somewhere beforehand, I wouldn't have thought of it. Now, unfortunately, I'm a big fan of retelling, and I probably wouldn't have started the book otherwise. For me, there weren't enough parallels. Apart from the name, I didn't recognize much.
I also found it problematic that large parts of the book were just too nebulous at the beginning. Why? What is the intention? Why is this just accepted now?
Despite the protagonist's age, I often had a strong YA feeling. I read The Selection years ago and sadly didn't like it. Somehow this love casting is not mine at all.
However, I found the main character interesting. She goes through a change, even if I think a lot is still possible in the following volumes. I also liked the friendship with her maids very much. Overall I found the second half of the novel much stronger, and the hint of magic intrigues me.
Heart of Cinder was a solid first volume, and I'm excited for volume 2.
Heart of Cinders and I didn't have an easy start, but towards the end, I grew to love the book and would like to know what's next.
What was difficult for me? The book is marketed as a loose retelling based on Cinderella's fairy tale: Honestly, if I hadn't read that somewhere beforehand, I wouldn't have thought of it. Now, unfortunately, I'm a big fan of retelling, and I probably wouldn't have started the book otherwise. For me, there weren't enough parallels. Apart from the name, I didn't recognize much.
I also found it problematic that large parts of the book were just too nebulous at the beginning. Why? What is the intention? Why is this just accepted now?
Despite the protagonist's age, I often had a strong YA feeling. I read The Selection years ago and sadly didn't like it. Somehow this love casting is not mine at all.
However, I found the main character interesting. She goes through a change, even if I think a lot is still possible in the following volumes. I also liked the friendship with her maids very much. Overall I found the second half of the novel much stronger, and the hint of magic intrigues me.
Heart of Cinder was a solid first volume, and I'm excited for volume 2.
January 21, 2022
This was absolutely amazing. This book is the reason why I love fantasy romance. This book is why I love the “on my way to kill you, but oops I fell in love trope.” Every single page was delicious, and I devoured the romance. Thank GOD book sirens has the sequel because I would not know what to do with myself. This is easily a 2022 fav, and maybe an all time fav if I think about it enough.
January 27, 2022
I very much enjoyed this book. I was lucky enough to receive a free advanced reader electronic copy and am leaving this review voluntarily . I am hopeful that I will be able to get a hard copy someday to add to my shelves so that my daughter can read it.
I found the character dynamics wonderful, a few I found a little lackluster but I think that was the whole point. I’m excited to read more from J. Darlene Everly.
I found the character dynamics wonderful, a few I found a little lackluster but I think that was the whole point. I’m excited to read more from J. Darlene Everly.
December 27, 2021
"Heart of Cinders" was a good read, but it definitely feels like something I've read before. I feel like the tag line could be "Throne of Glass" meets "The Selection." Seeing as I enjoyed both of those books I didn't really mind the similarities between them. Although, this does make it a trope minefield, but that's not necessarily a bad thing.
The world building was particularly interesting and I'm curious how it will play out in the next book in the series. I think the magic and the world this takes place in, are some of the things that made this book stand out from some of the other YA/NA romance fantasies out there.
So while I enjoyed "Heart of Cinders," it does feel like one of the many, many YA romantic fantasies already published. In fact, the more I think about it, the more books it reminds me of. So if you're looking for a Sarah J Maas, Sara Wolf, Kiera Cass, etc, etc, etc read alike, look no further.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The world building was particularly interesting and I'm curious how it will play out in the next book in the series. I think the magic and the world this takes place in, are some of the things that made this book stand out from some of the other YA/NA romance fantasies out there.
So while I enjoyed "Heart of Cinders," it does feel like one of the many, many YA romantic fantasies already published. In fact, the more I think about it, the more books it reminds me of. So if you're looking for a Sarah J Maas, Sara Wolf, Kiera Cass, etc, etc, etc read alike, look no further.
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 5, 2022
4.5
Brilliant, Encapting, New Bad-ass Assasin Fantasy Romance Novel!
Let's start with the characters. Cinder is just overall very very cool, yes she's killed many people however she has reasons, fears, and everything she's done is easily forgivable (or maybe I just have a soft spot for the morally grey characters). Deep down she's lovely, she cares for the few people she gets close to and that just rounds out her characterisation. The characters along the way are well written however most lack those small details that help readers to form true connections to them.
The plot is very well done, the ideas themselves while the main points felt predicable little things and the ending where complete surprises and shocks leaving me extremely captivated in the plot and continuation. The pacing was a nice medium that picked up towards the end, however, the very ending felt extremely jarring in the sense of "omg what did I just read."
The world itself didn't feel as well described as it should've given the territories and a potential war was a part of the story mentioned often. I felt lost as to who owned what, where is everything and what control people had. A possible map could definitely help grasp what is going on.
The writing is very easy to follow, well done, flowed nicely, nothing extremely fancy or new but it was comfortable to read.
Very hooked on the series and cannot wait for the next book!
Brilliant, Encapting, New Bad-ass Assasin Fantasy Romance Novel!
Let's start with the characters. Cinder is just overall very very cool, yes she's killed many people however she has reasons, fears, and everything she's done is easily forgivable (or maybe I just have a soft spot for the morally grey characters). Deep down she's lovely, she cares for the few people she gets close to and that just rounds out her characterisation. The characters along the way are well written however most lack those small details that help readers to form true connections to them.
The plot is very well done, the ideas themselves while the main points felt predicable little things and the ending where complete surprises and shocks leaving me extremely captivated in the plot and continuation. The pacing was a nice medium that picked up towards the end, however, the very ending felt extremely jarring in the sense of "omg what did I just read."
The world itself didn't feel as well described as it should've given the territories and a potential war was a part of the story mentioned often. I felt lost as to who owned what, where is everything and what control people had. A possible map could definitely help grasp what is going on.
The writing is very easy to follow, well done, flowed nicely, nothing extremely fancy or new but it was comfortable to read.
Very hooked on the series and cannot wait for the next book!
October 30, 2021
Ash wanted to go to war as long as it was his sword arm against someone else’s. As long as I was the one who was at risk and not him.
Cinder thinks of herself as the sword arm for her brother's revenge or ambition. She is brainwashed. Told to infiltrate the castle and kill the king, Cinder immediately obeys, even though applying makeup and displaying courtly manners is a foreign concept. However, Ash, her brother, first sends her to princess training to prepare.
What they don’t expect is that Cinder’s distancing from her brother allows her to make two new friends and second-guess her assignment. The king is nice. The king cares for orphans. The army is loyal, and killing the king would create chaos. Let’s not even mention her attraction to Tristan.
As a romance, it is decidedly young adult. I did not get any emotional tie to them, but I enjoyed the plot. The moments of training were surprisingly interesting. Her maids, although thrust upon her, are loyal and aggressive in dressing her up like a barbie.
Yes, the maids of honor are not really distinguishable from each other, but there is room for growth. Tristan himself is too sweet for my taste, and Cinder whines a bit. The story is still strong, and I am glad I read it.
Beware, the ending is the start of the adventure… or war.
Cinder thinks of herself as the sword arm for her brother's revenge or ambition. She is brainwashed. Told to infiltrate the castle and kill the king, Cinder immediately obeys, even though applying makeup and displaying courtly manners is a foreign concept. However, Ash, her brother, first sends her to princess training to prepare.
What they don’t expect is that Cinder’s distancing from her brother allows her to make two new friends and second-guess her assignment. The king is nice. The king cares for orphans. The army is loyal, and killing the king would create chaos. Let’s not even mention her attraction to Tristan.
As a romance, it is decidedly young adult. I did not get any emotional tie to them, but I enjoyed the plot. The moments of training were surprisingly interesting. Her maids, although thrust upon her, are loyal and aggressive in dressing her up like a barbie.
Yes, the maids of honor are not really distinguishable from each other, but there is room for growth. Tristan himself is too sweet for my taste, and Cinder whines a bit. The story is still strong, and I am glad I read it.
Beware, the ending is the start of the adventure… or war.
November 6, 2021
I really loved this novel. The only regret I have is to have actually picked it up without checking to see if the second volume was out. And now I have to wait. Too bad really.
Heart of cinders is the first volume of a trilogy retelling the tale of cinderella. I was skeptical at first. How would the author manage to build an entire trilogy from a single fairy tale?
And yet this first volume was a complete success. I was captivated by the world built in the novel and the characters of cinderella and the prince. I just couldn't put the book down and found myself reading it for hours until the end.
Here you can forget the plot of a a woman abused by stepsisters and stepmother escaping through marriage.
Cinderella is more complexe, the abuse heaped upon her more extreme and well…. what a hero she's become!
Lovers of the genre, you should really grab a copy of this novel, I am sure you will enjoy it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Heart of cinders is the first volume of a trilogy retelling the tale of cinderella. I was skeptical at first. How would the author manage to build an entire trilogy from a single fairy tale?
And yet this first volume was a complete success. I was captivated by the world built in the novel and the characters of cinderella and the prince. I just couldn't put the book down and found myself reading it for hours until the end.
Here you can forget the plot of a a woman abused by stepsisters and stepmother escaping through marriage.
Cinderella is more complexe, the abuse heaped upon her more extreme and well…. what a hero she's become!
Lovers of the genre, you should really grab a copy of this novel, I am sure you will enjoy it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 7, 2021
I definitely enjoyed this retelling of Cinderella, you have assassinations, palace life and intrigue, and war. Yes it is a different take on the fairy tell, but enjoyable. The story flowed smoothly, no awkwardness in how it was written. The author even included Gus and Jacq, they were Lady Cinder's ladies in waiting. Cinder is an assassin, her brother's sword arm; she did what needed to be done while her brother Ash ruled their duchy. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 15, 2022
First time reading this author
Lets talk about the stunning artwork that is the cover!!! 😍😍 aint that super pretty i liked that alot, its my guilty pleasure i do often judge a book by its cover but this one made it all the way to my kindle because the blurb sold the deal for me!
Scrolling away from the cover passed all the copywrighted stuff we get a little note which i liked alot! 🗡 stabby mcgee 😋.
Now we get to the content page and i liked what i saw! The chapters have a description not the simple chapter 1 or just one.
Now on to the main question of the day! Do we have multiple pov's?... sadly no but I would of loved a duel pov from not just Cinder but Tristan too and maybe from Gus & Jac too. Eventho we didnt have that i stil loved the story so so much
I do like to note that i received an advances reading copy of this book on booksirens and i am leaving this review voluntarily! And it may contain small *spoilers*
So ive just finished the book and my mind is going a million miles a minute, this is a series so i thought oke we going to get a major cliffhanger but no we get a little one which i like.
Im pretty sure book 2 will take off where this one ended which i will like for sure
Im giving the book a 5 ⭐ review because i loved the cover, loved the story, loved the character devolpment and the world building, i also loved the difference between the kingdoms/lands/dutchries
The story didnt feel rushed or just pasted together at all the flow was just right and i like that in a book.
The book is well written and i love Cinder, Gus & Jac their adventures and road is not an easy one specialy not for Cinder because of her abusive Duke twaffle of a brother, i do not like him! It takes real skill to get me to dislike a character this much but the author did it and that alone is worth a whole ⭐ in this review.
I like the connection between Cinder & Tristan its very subtle but also you can tell they are connected/ drawn towards each other and i loved reading that and making guesses in my mind.
We see that Duke waffle altho hes not there in person he does come up alot either in her mind or in small conversation and we see cinder struggle with that alot.
Her journey throughout the book is one of strenght and i admire that.
The way the author made the story so smooth and wrote it to keep you wanting more by each page, is amazing it kept me up more then one night.
So heres 5⭐s for this book and i bet book 2 will be even better!
Lets talk about the stunning artwork that is the cover!!! 😍😍 aint that super pretty i liked that alot, its my guilty pleasure i do often judge a book by its cover but this one made it all the way to my kindle because the blurb sold the deal for me!
Scrolling away from the cover passed all the copywrighted stuff we get a little note which i liked alot! 🗡 stabby mcgee 😋.
Now we get to the content page and i liked what i saw! The chapters have a description not the simple chapter 1 or just one.
Now on to the main question of the day! Do we have multiple pov's?... sadly no but I would of loved a duel pov from not just Cinder but Tristan too and maybe from Gus & Jac too. Eventho we didnt have that i stil loved the story so so much
I do like to note that i received an advances reading copy of this book on booksirens and i am leaving this review voluntarily! And it may contain small *spoilers*
So ive just finished the book and my mind is going a million miles a minute, this is a series so i thought oke we going to get a major cliffhanger but no we get a little one which i like.
Im pretty sure book 2 will take off where this one ended which i will like for sure
Im giving the book a 5 ⭐ review because i loved the cover, loved the story, loved the character devolpment and the world building, i also loved the difference between the kingdoms/lands/dutchries
The story didnt feel rushed or just pasted together at all the flow was just right and i like that in a book.
The book is well written and i love Cinder, Gus & Jac their adventures and road is not an easy one specialy not for Cinder because of her abusive Duke twaffle of a brother, i do not like him! It takes real skill to get me to dislike a character this much but the author did it and that alone is worth a whole ⭐ in this review.
I like the connection between Cinder & Tristan its very subtle but also you can tell they are connected/ drawn towards each other and i loved reading that and making guesses in my mind.
We see that Duke waffle altho hes not there in person he does come up alot either in her mind or in small conversation and we see cinder struggle with that alot.
Her journey throughout the book is one of strenght and i admire that.
The way the author made the story so smooth and wrote it to keep you wanting more by each page, is amazing it kept me up more then one night.
So heres 5⭐s for this book and i bet book 2 will be even better!
January 4, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this story, Cinder’s the sword arm for her brother, the Duke. They’ve grown so deep into their hatred of the king for the death of their parents, that’s pretty much all her brother lives for, though it seems she’s not really known much else. Though this is loosely related to the fairytale, it’s missing almost all of the key components of Cinderella. There’s no step family, but there is abuse and deception, but not quite the same types. Though this is the first in a trilogy, it starts off on an interesting path, and doesn’t build the romance too far, too fast for the planned length. I think this has a lot of interesting places to go in the series, and it will be fun to see how it ends.
Though this came with a sneak peek of the prequel, I feel like it would have helped more to see her youth in the main story, (and what happened to her parents) so it would be less of this vague, nebulous thing hanging over her head, and would explain why she is the woman she became in the years since.
In this story, Cinder’s the sword arm for her brother, the Duke. They’ve grown so deep into their hatred of the king for the death of their parents, that’s pretty much all her brother lives for, though it seems she’s not really known much else. Though this is loosely related to the fairytale, it’s missing almost all of the key components of Cinderella. There’s no step family, but there is abuse and deception, but not quite the same types. Though this is the first in a trilogy, it starts off on an interesting path, and doesn’t build the romance too far, too fast for the planned length. I think this has a lot of interesting places to go in the series, and it will be fun to see how it ends.
Though this came with a sneak peek of the prequel, I feel like it would have helped more to see her youth in the main story, (and what happened to her parents) so it would be less of this vague, nebulous thing hanging over her head, and would explain why she is the woman she became in the years since.
November 10, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is gorgeous. The cover art is just fabulous. The story line is amazing. I love the characters and all of the development. I cannot stress how swept away I was with this. Also I just have to say I got an ebook of this and I am seriously just thinking of buying a hardback just because it is a gorgeous story and the cover art.
The ending though... I just cant understand why it was left off like that. I get that people will have to read on to see what happens next but I was kind of hoping to see cinders struggle in the next book if the king had publicly proposed.
I am excited about the prequel to see what happened with Ash i am curious about his back story and Cinders past. I have to say I will most likely be reading the rest of the books but still seriously annoyed with that cliff hanger.
I will also say this is supposed to be a Cinderella retale and while I can see the storyline being loosely based on Cinderella, Cinder is nothing like Cinderella. Cinder is a straight up Bad A##
This book is gorgeous. The cover art is just fabulous. The story line is amazing. I love the characters and all of the development. I cannot stress how swept away I was with this. Also I just have to say I got an ebook of this and I am seriously just thinking of buying a hardback just because it is a gorgeous story and the cover art.
The ending though... I just cant understand why it was left off like that. I get that people will have to read on to see what happens next but I was kind of hoping to see cinders struggle in the next book if the king had publicly proposed.
I am excited about the prequel to see what happened with Ash i am curious about his back story and Cinders past. I have to say I will most likely be reading the rest of the books but still seriously annoyed with that cliff hanger.
I will also say this is supposed to be a Cinderella retale and while I can see the storyline being loosely based on Cinderella, Cinder is nothing like Cinderella. Cinder is a straight up Bad A##
March 21, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Slow start… sometimes I find epic stories tend to have a slower beginning and so I continued reading. I was a little dissatisfied that the story line didn’t pick up quicker; it was more than half way through before I was invested. I think maybe I was looking for more romance when the author spent a lot of time on prepping Cinder before arriving at the castle. But once Cinder met King Tristan I was really interested… eventually I was hooked and I was not disappointed!! I had a really hard time putting the book down. The battle towards the end, EPIC! The author wrote the battle so well I could really picture everything happening. Pure action and entertainment. I enjoyed Cinders character, and her ladies in waiting are perfect supporting characters. I do wish I knew more about Tristan. Hopefully as the series progresses I will find out more about him. Fingers crossed maybe even some chapters from his point of view! I can’t wait to read the next one.
Slow start… sometimes I find epic stories tend to have a slower beginning and so I continued reading. I was a little dissatisfied that the story line didn’t pick up quicker; it was more than half way through before I was invested. I think maybe I was looking for more romance when the author spent a lot of time on prepping Cinder before arriving at the castle. But once Cinder met King Tristan I was really interested… eventually I was hooked and I was not disappointed!! I had a really hard time putting the book down. The battle towards the end, EPIC! The author wrote the battle so well I could really picture everything happening. Pure action and entertainment. I enjoyed Cinders character, and her ladies in waiting are perfect supporting characters. I do wish I knew more about Tristan. Hopefully as the series progresses I will find out more about him. Fingers crossed maybe even some chapters from his point of view! I can’t wait to read the next one.
January 28, 2022
This was a fun book for a lot of reasons, but has some content that may be best left alone for some. It was an interesting take on the Cinderella story, and had some good intrigue and a good place in the plot. Bring the first in a series it did well setting up a lot of the world in which it takes place, with some fun spins on magic and fantasy. The story got a bit touchy with the analog to the step family, taking the abuse beyond just the psychological and into the physical as well. It did not go into detail for the most part, but rather showcased the main characters acceptance of the abuse. They did later overcome that acceptance and saw it for what it was, but that part was frustrating. Overall it was a good read, and I look forward to continuing on with the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2021
WOW! When I tell you I didn’t put this book down since I picked it up, boy do I mean it. I found myself loving and rooting for the characters. The story pulls you in, and the author keeps you hanging on every word. There’s action, love interest, and a fast developing story.
The main characters grow throughout the story, which I love to see in books. Growth, challenges and changes help to shape who these characters are and why they are that way. But beyond the “main” characters, I felt there was opportunity for some more development in “secondary” characters (but this might just be a personal reader preference!). While there was some background, the story truly only focuses on the main interests.
The world building was very well done. As you read things piece together and begin to make more sense.
Already pre-ordered the next book! January can’t come soon enough.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The main characters grow throughout the story, which I love to see in books. Growth, challenges and changes help to shape who these characters are and why they are that way. But beyond the “main” characters, I felt there was opportunity for some more development in “secondary” characters (but this might just be a personal reader preference!). While there was some background, the story truly only focuses on the main interests.
The world building was very well done. As you read things piece together and begin to make more sense.
Already pre-ordered the next book! January can’t come soon enough.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 3, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Heart of Cinders took me on a ride, and sometimes the ride wasn't the best. While overall I enjoyed the story, I felt at times it fell a little flat, it dragged too long, yet the scenes I would have liked to have more of cut too short. The world-building was a bit confusing and hard to understand, but I loved every character, my favorite being Gus or the King.
The fight scene just felt a bit too long and then everything else happened very quickly, the ending was a cliffhanger and I shouted out in frustration,(the good kind). In the end, I still loved the book and can't wait for the sequel.
Heart of Cinders took me on a ride, and sometimes the ride wasn't the best. While overall I enjoyed the story, I felt at times it fell a little flat, it dragged too long, yet the scenes I would have liked to have more of cut too short. The world-building was a bit confusing and hard to understand, but I loved every character, my favorite being Gus or the King.
The fight scene just felt a bit too long and then everything else happened very quickly, the ending was a cliffhanger and I shouted out in frustration,(the good kind). In the end, I still loved the book and can't wait for the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2022
So good!! On my way to Amazon to see what else this author has that I can binge. The characters were well developed, the plot felt original - and considering how many times we have seen retellings of this tale, that is a feat. I am a sucker for retellings and I love callbacks to the previous well known versions; Ms. Everly did that with just the right amount of subtlety for it to be charming. Overall, I was very pleased to discover this new author; it's been a while since I read an entire book in one day. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 22, 2022
Thank you to the author, publisher and BookSirens for allowing me to review this ARC with honesty.
This was a very interesting take on what I thought was a basic retelling of Cinderella. Oh hell, was I so far off. Not exactly in the retelling (I think) but more so the basic part. A very developed story far beyond simple romance is Heart of Cinders and I found myself having a hard time putting it down. The writing style made it very easy to follow as well as the pacing. The slow burn on this (and I don't simply mean the romance) was well done as well. I never got bored with the shifting of scenery. My favorite though has to be the Ladies in Waiting.
Had lots of fun. Plan on reading the second installment very soon.
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was a very interesting take on what I thought was a basic retelling of Cinderella. Oh hell, was I so far off. Not exactly in the retelling (I think) but more so the basic part. A very developed story far beyond simple romance is Heart of Cinders and I found myself having a hard time putting it down. The writing style made it very easy to follow as well as the pacing. The slow burn on this (and I don't simply mean the romance) was well done as well. I never got bored with the shifting of scenery. My favorite though has to be the Ladies in Waiting.
Had lots of fun. Plan on reading the second installment very soon.
My Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 29, 2021
This book has a strong, well-developed and an interesting story line with twists and unexpected turns keep you reading and turning the pages. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention. Amazing world building that is detailed and imaginable. I felt like I was right there watching, feeling, and experiencing the book...not just reading it. The atmosphere created and characters were so realistic. Strong, interesting, and fascinating characters that are well developed and diverse. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 18, 2022
Heart of Cinders is the first book in a trilogy (second book was just released a month ago). Overall, I have to say I enjoyed this book. The beginning was a bit slow for me and so, it took me longer than usual to get into it. But once I was in it, the storyline was solid ride. The ending cut off in an unexpected part, but I also understand how it's setting up the plot for the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 13, 2022
This is much more an a Cinderella retelling. Cinder, orphaned at 15 years old, is moulded to become her brother's sword arm and assassin. Given a new target, she is to kill King Tristan himself, as he seeks for a bride. However, Tristan is much more than she expected and she begins to question her brother's understanding of the situation. The writing is incredible and the characters are well developed. 5/5 stars
March 14, 2022
Started out slow, but it really started to pick up about 1/3 of the way through and I was hooked. Looking forward to the next installment. The political issues surrounding this story get a little confusing so I’m hoping this clears up further on down the road. The FMC is developing well so I look forward the more backstory for King Tristan as well.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2022
This book is a Cinderella retelling but it’s not like any other retelling I have read! I fell in love with this book from the beginning and it held my attention throughout. The world and character building is some of the best I’ve ever seen! I’m excited for book 2!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 26, 2022
I adored this book. I love a strong lead female character, and Cinders doesn't disappoint. The storyline is great, and it unravels wonderfully the farther into the book you get. I very much look forward to the next installment.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2021
this was a unique fairy tale retelling, it was a wonderfully done tale with great characters. It left me excited to read the second book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2021
If you like fairytale retellings and The Selection series by Kiera Cass then you should read this. Also did I mention Cinder is an assassin. The storytelling is very well written. I can't wait for the second book because the ending on this one leaves it on a cliffhanger. It does have some cussing in it but other than that I would recommend this. I'm giving Heart of Cinders a 3 out of 5 stars.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 12, 2021
With the opening act in Heart of Cinders being one of revenge as delivered by assassin Cinder, a fantasy tale both grand in scale and wide of scope begins. The intriguing plot and twisted familial loyalties keep the storyline flowing at an even pace with excellent world building and well written prose. The reader is kept engaged by the myriad of events unfolding and the mesmerizing fully descriptive characters that power the narrative along. Vivid and at times haunting this was a compulsively readable story, profound yet never boring.
A good read that does end on a cliff hanger I look forward to picking up the threads again and finding out where they will lead.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A good read that does end on a cliff hanger I look forward to picking up the threads again and finding out where they will lead.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2022
A stunning retelling of the Cinderella mythos, Heart of Cinders stole my heart with characters who's journeys celebrate strength in friendship, learning to trust after years of being sheltered, and girls becoming women who become unafraid into show their fierceness and strength in front of men especially when women are expected to be more gentile but cunning and wise. Don't mess with a woman who wields knives and spikes.
I loved the descriptions of the scenery, the dresses (I want those!) and the beauty of a budding relationship. And I need a food ordering system like the palace!
You'll want to read this book. Because the second book is releasing in January 2022 and its hot on my radar as is author J. Darlene Everly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the descriptions of the scenery, the dresses (I want those!) and the beauty of a budding relationship. And I need a food ordering system like the palace!
You'll want to read this book. Because the second book is releasing in January 2022 and its hot on my radar as is author J. Darlene Everly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 14, 2022
A special thanks to the publisher and BookSirens for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed this loose Cinderella retelling quite a lot! I enjoyed the fierceness of Cinder and the worldbuilding in general, although I think it would be nice to have some sort of map at the beginning to get a better understanding of the geography of the world. It was also a little slow at the beginning, but that it typical for the first book in a series like this where the author has to build up the world initially. It felt a little "tropey" with the falling in love with someone you are sent to kill, but I did not mind it too much.
I appreciated this darker twist to the classic Cinderella story since it is something that I have not read before. I am definitely going to be getting the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this loose Cinderella retelling quite a lot! I enjoyed the fierceness of Cinder and the worldbuilding in general, although I think it would be nice to have some sort of map at the beginning to get a better understanding of the geography of the world. It was also a little slow at the beginning, but that it typical for the first book in a series like this where the author has to build up the world initially. It felt a little "tropey" with the falling in love with someone you are sent to kill, but I did not mind it too much.
I appreciated this darker twist to the classic Cinderella story since it is something that I have not read before. I am definitely going to be getting the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 15, 2022
Well, what an interesting piece. It was boring for me, quite honestly. And I feel that's because there were too many things distracting me from the story itself. I feel like the author should have done more research before writing this, or at least try not to be so aggressive and judgemental.
The way she portrayed the female characters (most of them are, and it felt kind of forced honestly) feel ignorant to me, you must first know how a lady acts and carries herself before you try to deviate from that, this is clearly not shown in the way Lady Cinder and others act…
One thing that drove me CRAZY was the constant mention of what she calls herself, every time she said it I just cringed, it was bad.
Another thing, how some information was thrown in to later in the book tell me something 180 degrees from it, characters being things they were not supposed to be without showing a clear development, and many other. I kept asking myself "what time period is this supposed to be again? What kind of dresses are they wearing again?". And ok, maybe this isn't historical fiction but for grace, at least be coherent or explain context clearly. And the fashion part… Wow, such ugly dresses that made no sense whatsoever for the occasion they were being worn, so-called ladies who didn't know how to act like a decent person and called other people names, hating whole nations in the act before even trying to be human and getting to know the individual, off-putting. I understand that perhaps the main character was supposed to be viewed as grey and flawed and almost a villain, but I couldn't make myself feel neither sorry nor angry for her. I didn't like her one bit, to be honest, she was the one acting like what she called other female characters first and worse. And the use of that word (word for female dog used in a pejorative way)… Again, off-putting. Almost like the author wants us to hate women but at the same time feel proud of them for being soldiers while also feeling condescendent towards the women who are more "plain minded" and pay more attention to being proper and fashionable (which of course they'll grow out of, because ew, feminine women). That's what I felt through the words of the author, whether that was the goal or not, and it was so distracting!
I'm giving this book 2 stars for 3 reasons, two of which didn't exactly cut it:
1. Romance. There were about two moments when I started to believe what was going on and get excited, but it was never enough and just got me bored and rolling my eyes. What a poor portrayal of a King, of men, of Ladies… Too easy-too convenient romance, no thank you.
2. Action. Towards the end of the book things got moving a little (I think the sole reason I might be intrigued to continue with the next book). The promise of war and magic is always a hook for me, regardless of how boring the whole of the book was to me.
3. I will read the next book because I need to know what happens next. Only because there's some magic now and oh do I love magic! So bonus points for sparking my curiosity there.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The way she portrayed the female characters (most of them are, and it felt kind of forced honestly) feel ignorant to me, you must first know how a lady acts and carries herself before you try to deviate from that, this is clearly not shown in the way Lady Cinder and others act…
One thing that drove me CRAZY was the constant mention of what she calls herself, every time she said it I just cringed, it was bad.
Another thing, how some information was thrown in to later in the book tell me something 180 degrees from it, characters being things they were not supposed to be without showing a clear development, and many other. I kept asking myself "what time period is this supposed to be again? What kind of dresses are they wearing again?". And ok, maybe this isn't historical fiction but for grace, at least be coherent or explain context clearly. And the fashion part… Wow, such ugly dresses that made no sense whatsoever for the occasion they were being worn, so-called ladies who didn't know how to act like a decent person and called other people names, hating whole nations in the act before even trying to be human and getting to know the individual, off-putting. I understand that perhaps the main character was supposed to be viewed as grey and flawed and almost a villain, but I couldn't make myself feel neither sorry nor angry for her. I didn't like her one bit, to be honest, she was the one acting like what she called other female characters first and worse. And the use of that word (word for female dog used in a pejorative way)… Again, off-putting. Almost like the author wants us to hate women but at the same time feel proud of them for being soldiers while also feeling condescendent towards the women who are more "plain minded" and pay more attention to being proper and fashionable (which of course they'll grow out of, because ew, feminine women). That's what I felt through the words of the author, whether that was the goal or not, and it was so distracting!
I'm giving this book 2 stars for 3 reasons, two of which didn't exactly cut it:
1. Romance. There were about two moments when I started to believe what was going on and get excited, but it was never enough and just got me bored and rolling my eyes. What a poor portrayal of a King, of men, of Ladies… Too easy-too convenient romance, no thank you.
2. Action. Towards the end of the book things got moving a little (I think the sole reason I might be intrigued to continue with the next book). The promise of war and magic is always a hook for me, regardless of how boring the whole of the book was to me.
3. I will read the next book because I need to know what happens next. Only because there's some magic now and oh do I love magic! So bonus points for sparking my curiosity there.
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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