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The Emerald Realm #1
Poisoned Heart
The first installment of The Emerald Realm... A magical collection of clean fantasy romances.
A Retelling of Snow White.
Princess Arabella is truly the fairest in all the land, and she knows it. With her pretty face, elaborate ball gowns, and glorious castle, she truly lives the perfect royal life. That is, until she is forced out of her home by a mysterious assassin.
With only the clothes on her back and the tiara on her head, Arabella flees from her castle in the dead of winter. As a last resort for shelter, Arabella takes up work in a laundry mill with seven other women. The once adored princess is now subjected to sleeping in piles of dirty laundry, but at least she is hidden. Well, she hopes so…
In the midst of her deadly game of hide-and-seek, she discovers that her kingdom is endangered by her absence. With the help of a dashing captain, a quirky noble, and her seven new companions, she must protect both her life and her kingdom. Will Arabella learn what true beauty is as she navigates her new life as a nameless commoner? While evil builds and secrets unfold, there may be more than her heart that’s poisoned.
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A Retelling of Snow White.
Princess Arabella is truly the fairest in all the land, and she knows it. With her pretty face, elaborate ball gowns, and glorious castle, she truly lives the perfect royal life. That is, until she is forced out of her home by a mysterious assassin.
With only the clothes on her back and the tiara on her head, Arabella flees from her castle in the dead of winter. As a last resort for shelter, Arabella takes up work in a laundry mill with seven other women. The once adored princess is now subjected to sleeping in piles of dirty laundry, but at least she is hidden. Well, she hopes so…
In the midst of her deadly game of hide-and-seek, she discovers that her kingdom is endangered by her absence. With the help of a dashing captain, a quirky noble, and her seven new companions, she must protect both her life and her kingdom. Will Arabella learn what true beauty is as she navigates her new life as a nameless commoner? While evil builds and secrets unfold, there may be more than her heart that’s poisoned.
For more information on The Emerald Realm sign up for my free monthly newsletter Abigailmanningauthor.com
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 6, 2021
82 people are currently reading
769 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 28, 2022
3 stars, personally.
What is it about fairytales that you can read 28 different versions of them and yet still go "oooh!" at all the appropriate times?
I'm not sure, but it's definitely a reason why fairytale books are so lovedand so popular on Kindle Unlimited.
To be frankly honest, I nearly DNF this one about 50 pages in because the main girl, Arabella, was very annoying and, well, selfish/vain. Which makes sense on how she was raised and I knew there would be character development eventually, but it took me until chapter seven (of twenty) to get into the plot-line. (Which happened to be when the Male Lead enters in, completely not a coincidence, I'll tell you.)
Once the character development starts and Arabella became more bearable, the actual plot of the classic fairytale, Snow White, came into play. And even though there were a lot of parts that were more of Arabella telling than showing (particularly in plans and ideas that felt out of character for what we've seen of her), the author did make the story different and her own. Which is why I'm giving it a 3 star rating. It wasn't the best version of Snow White I've read, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't the worst either. It was a quick little hour-long read that I suppose you can say that I mostly enjoyed.
Main Content:
No major cussing, minor words like 'blasted', 'blooming' (instead of freaking), 'sucking up', and 'geez' were used.
One daughter isn't a fan of her parents telling her what to do (or their interest in society things, which she has absolutely no interest in) and comments her displeasure about their thoughts to our main girl.
Arabella doesn't have a relationship with her mother & there is an assassin trying to stalk and kill her.
Fight scenes, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, being poisoned, and passing out (up to semi-detailed).
A few light kisses. Some touches and embraces. Noticing & Falling for someone.
There is no Christian content in this book as it's defined as a "clean book". There is a magic system and a character has a type of magic to be able to heal others. (All magic is looked upon well, no information about those who misuse their magical powers.)
What is it about fairytales that you can read 28 different versions of them and yet still go "oooh!" at all the appropriate times?
I'm not sure, but it's definitely a reason why fairytale books are so loved
To be frankly honest, I nearly DNF this one about 50 pages in because the main girl, Arabella, was very annoying and, well, selfish/vain. Which makes sense on how she was raised and I knew there would be character development eventually, but it took me until chapter seven (of twenty) to get into the plot-line. (Which happened to be when the Male Lead enters in, completely not a coincidence, I'll tell you.)
Once the character development starts and Arabella became more bearable, the actual plot of the classic fairytale, Snow White, came into play. And even though there were a lot of parts that were more of Arabella telling than showing (particularly in plans and ideas that felt out of character for what we've seen of her), the author did make the story different and her own. Which is why I'm giving it a 3 star rating. It wasn't the best version of Snow White I've read, but I'm pretty sure it wasn't the worst either. It was a quick little hour-long read that I suppose you can say that I mostly enjoyed.
Main Content:
No major cussing, minor words like 'blasted', 'blooming' (instead of freaking), 'sucking up', and 'geez' were used.
One daughter isn't a fan of her parents telling her what to do (or their interest in society things, which she has absolutely no interest in) and comments her displeasure about their thoughts to our main girl.
Arabella doesn't have a relationship with her mother & there is an assassin trying to stalk and kill her.
Fight scenes, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, being poisoned, and passing out (up to semi-detailed).
A few light kisses. Some touches and embraces. Noticing & Falling for someone.
There is no Christian content in this book as it's defined as a "clean book". There is a magic system and a character has a type of magic to be able to heal others. (All magic is looked upon well, no information about those who misuse their magical powers.)
December 20, 2022
I originally bought this book on kindle because A, it was cheap and B because I could read it in one sitting on the plane. I went into this with low expectations, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised!
First off, the world building was absolutely fantastic! The author really created an elaborate world and did a solid job constructing it and laying out the background information.
The characters were also very well developed. I really appreciated the protagonist’s journey from self-centered princess to a strong, compassionate leader. All of the other side characters were also well-developed as well.
With regard to the plot, the author did a very unique retelling of Snow White, which I thought was really creative. And the ending was absolutely fantastic!
The only drawback is that the novel could have been written a bit better and had a more competent editor, but not enough for me to dock a star from my review. If you want a quick, short read for the plane, this book is it!
First off, the world building was absolutely fantastic! The author really created an elaborate world and did a solid job constructing it and laying out the background information.
The characters were also very well developed. I really appreciated the protagonist’s journey from self-centered princess to a strong, compassionate leader. All of the other side characters were also well-developed as well.
With regard to the plot, the author did a very unique retelling of Snow White, which I thought was really creative. And the ending was absolutely fantastic!
The only drawback is that the novel could have been written a bit better and had a more competent editor, but not enough for me to dock a star from my review. If you want a quick, short read for the plane, this book is it!
February 14, 2023
This is a cute retelling of Snow White! I really liked the washing girls and Peter was just SO SWOONY! It was an interesting take to make it a bit of a coming of age, spoiled girl redemption story along with the Snow White aspects!
February 28, 2022
Snow White
Reader’s Notes:
– this is book one of a series; it can be read on it’s own, just be aware that there is an unresolved plot point that isn’t connected to the main characters’ storylines
– this is told mainly from Princess Arabella’s point of view, but also includes a few scenes told from other characters’ points of view since she is not around to witness them
Review:
I was teetering back and forth a bit on if I liked Princess Arabella in the beginning. At times she was an enjoyable character who was nice and liked playing pranks on the visiting nobles. Then for a bit she seemed to be a little self-centered and haughty. But once we got to the laundry mill, I was able to settle on liking Arabella’s character. The story itself was very interesting as well! I liked how the author tweaked the original tale’s main plot points and made you wonder if she kept certain ones or changed them entirely. Because of this, I was highly surprised by some of the events of the story! It was awesome!
Princess Arabella is the fairest in the land and everyone tells her. Despite being the fairest, Arabella enjoys playing pranks on the visiting nobles and is reprimanded more times than expected of a princess. One day the prank goes too far and an assassin is able to trick the princess into fleeing the castle. But once she realizes what happened, her purpose of fleeing changes to protect her life from the assassin hunting her.
Hiding in the least likely place to find a princess, Arabella lies about her name and finds work with seven other women to clean clothes at a mill. With no one around her knowing who she truly is, she feels relaxed and able to be herself. But when she is recognized by captain, she worries that everything she did to hide herself will be for nothing. However, Arabella’s fears are unfounded and instead she gains a new confidant who knows her real name, who she truly is, and her predicament. It’s refreshing and makes it possible for her to get to know him, and then fall for him. But they can’t act on their feelings until they figure out who is truly after the princess and possibly the fall of her kingdom…
Reader’s Notes:
– this is book one of a series; it can be read on it’s own, just be aware that there is an unresolved plot point that isn’t connected to the main characters’ storylines
– this is told mainly from Princess Arabella’s point of view, but also includes a few scenes told from other characters’ points of view since she is not around to witness them
Review:
I was teetering back and forth a bit on if I liked Princess Arabella in the beginning. At times she was an enjoyable character who was nice and liked playing pranks on the visiting nobles. Then for a bit she seemed to be a little self-centered and haughty. But once we got to the laundry mill, I was able to settle on liking Arabella’s character. The story itself was very interesting as well! I liked how the author tweaked the original tale’s main plot points and made you wonder if she kept certain ones or changed them entirely. Because of this, I was highly surprised by some of the events of the story! It was awesome!
Princess Arabella is the fairest in the land and everyone tells her. Despite being the fairest, Arabella enjoys playing pranks on the visiting nobles and is reprimanded more times than expected of a princess. One day the prank goes too far and an assassin is able to trick the princess into fleeing the castle. But once she realizes what happened, her purpose of fleeing changes to protect her life from the assassin hunting her.
Hiding in the least likely place to find a princess, Arabella lies about her name and finds work with seven other women to clean clothes at a mill. With no one around her knowing who she truly is, she feels relaxed and able to be herself. But when she is recognized by captain, she worries that everything she did to hide herself will be for nothing. However, Arabella’s fears are unfounded and instead she gains a new confidant who knows her real name, who she truly is, and her predicament. It’s refreshing and makes it possible for her to get to know him, and then fall for him. But they can’t act on their feelings until they figure out who is truly after the princess and possibly the fall of her kingdom…
May 2, 2022
A fairytale retelling of Snow White, Poisoned Heart is the first in a series of retellings. Arabella, princess of Isalla, knows that she is beautiful and privileged. In fact, her father would always brag about her to anyone. But with his death, she is left with her mother, who she had never connected with. The arrival of a neighboring king and his son sets into motion changes for her kingdom and the rest of her life. She finds herself being hunted by a mysterious assassin and seeks shelter amongst a group of women working at a laundry mill. Suddenly forced to work and sleep amongst dirty laundry, she hopes that she is at least safe. However, when her kingdom is endangered, she must join forces with a dashing captain, a quirky noble, and her seven new companions to protect it
Will Arabella discover true beauty and the hidden secrets embedded within her land?
This is a new-to-me author who we connected with through Instagram. I love fairytale retellings and this one was really fun! Arabella definitely grew over this story. In the beginning, she was a bit spoiled and selfish, but it was very sweet to see her grow over the story. I appreciated how influential the people around her were in her growth. It is much easier to understand and be compassionate when you truly see what others are going through and connect to them. It was so sweet to read about how she built friendships with the other ladies at the laundry mill. Hazel in particular was such a sweetheart!
I also enjoyed how Arabella grew as she interacted with Aurelia and Peter. Aurelia was so fun and I loved her passion. She really sought to use her privilege for helping others. Hopefully, we get to see more of her story! Peter was also so swoony! He was kind and supportive, while being competent and strong.
There were points where I felt like things moved a bit quickly in the story, like with Arabella's character development, but overall it was an engaging and interesting story. There were definitely some surprises in there too! This is the first in a series, so there were some hanging strings that I am sure will be picked up further along in the series. I am excited to read more! This is a clean fairytale retelling that I would recommend to teens and up. There are some mentions of death and assassins, but nothing darker than the original fairytale.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Will Arabella discover true beauty and the hidden secrets embedded within her land?
This is a new-to-me author who we connected with through Instagram. I love fairytale retellings and this one was really fun! Arabella definitely grew over this story. In the beginning, she was a bit spoiled and selfish, but it was very sweet to see her grow over the story. I appreciated how influential the people around her were in her growth. It is much easier to understand and be compassionate when you truly see what others are going through and connect to them. It was so sweet to read about how she built friendships with the other ladies at the laundry mill. Hazel in particular was such a sweetheart!
I also enjoyed how Arabella grew as she interacted with Aurelia and Peter. Aurelia was so fun and I loved her passion. She really sought to use her privilege for helping others. Hopefully, we get to see more of her story! Peter was also so swoony! He was kind and supportive, while being competent and strong.
There were points where I felt like things moved a bit quickly in the story, like with Arabella's character development, but overall it was an engaging and interesting story. There were definitely some surprises in there too! This is the first in a series, so there were some hanging strings that I am sure will be picked up further along in the series. I am excited to read more! This is a clean fairytale retelling that I would recommend to teens and up. There are some mentions of death and assassins, but nothing darker than the original fairytale.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
May 10, 2023
This was such a great read. I didn't want to put it down. This author takes a classic fairy tale and gives it an interesting twist. I found myself wanting to read more so I could try to figure out how she was going to weave together all the elements of the classic tale into her new take on the story. I can't wait to read the next in her series.
March 21, 2022
I thought this Snow White retelling was extremely well done! You never really see this story being retold all that often compared to others, but I loved the fun twist of it. Highly recommend to anyone that wants a quick easy read, the plot gets going right away and maintains a great pace to keep you on your toes!
March 17, 2022
DNF pg 41
March 30, 2022
This retelling of Snow White was very well done! I enjoyed it so much. In this tale the heroine starts out being a spoiled princess who likes to play pranks and is not very likable. When she is pursued by an assassin she flees and starts work with other girls in the village to hide. Through her new circumstances and new friends she learns hard work and compassion. Peter, a palace guard, finds Arabella and protects her as they secretly try to uncover the plot against her and the kingdom. There were several exciting twists that kept me on my toes and I fully enjoyed reading!
March 17, 2022
At first, this novel doesn’t appear to be a retelling of Snow White. Its main character, Arabella, is already a princess, and readers might believe this is a fairy tale continuation. But don’t worry, events occur quickly, and Arabella ends up running for her life the same as her fairytale princess counterpart.
Snow White, with a dash of the Prince and Pauper thrown in for good measure, is the general narrative of Poisoned Heart. Most of the familiar elements from the fairytale have survived although not in a way the reader expects. A mystery, a romance, and a bit of magic all come together to build a gripping story of maturity and sacrifice.
More stories of the Emerald Realm are forthcoming, and the author has laid down enough details to make this reviewer want to visit this world again. If this delightful first novel is any indication of what’s to come, readers are in for many wonderful stories.
Snow White, with a dash of the Prince and Pauper thrown in for good measure, is the general narrative of Poisoned Heart. Most of the familiar elements from the fairytale have survived although not in a way the reader expects. A mystery, a romance, and a bit of magic all come together to build a gripping story of maturity and sacrifice.
More stories of the Emerald Realm are forthcoming, and the author has laid down enough details to make this reviewer want to visit this world again. If this delightful first novel is any indication of what’s to come, readers are in for many wonderful stories.
February 27, 2025
Good but dragged a bit
It was a bit too predictable and straightforward, and I found it overly long, but it was a sweet Snow White retelling, and appropriate for a younger YA age range maybe just beginning to explore fairytale retellings.
It was a bit too predictable and straightforward, and I found it overly long, but it was a sweet Snow White retelling, and appropriate for a younger YA age range maybe just beginning to explore fairytale retellings.
June 11, 2022
Creativity & Imagination - re-enjoying some classics with remarkable twists and turns that will have racing for the next in the series. A Satisfying Escape that will make you smile!
February 26, 2022
I enjoyed reading this Snow White retelling! The story is unique, yet has plenty of the fairytale elements I expected to see, and I liked the twists the author put on the traditional tale!
Arabella is self-centered at the beginning of the story, but she has a great character arc, and I enjoyed her growth throughout the book. The ending is great, and I’m interested to see what happens throughout the series! The main character for the next book is introduced in this story, and I’m looking forward to reading her story soon!
Arabella is self-centered at the beginning of the story, but she has a great character arc, and I enjoyed her growth throughout the book. The ending is great, and I’m interested to see what happens throughout the series! The main character for the next book is introduced in this story, and I’m looking forward to reading her story soon!
October 12, 2022
I adore retelling of different fairy tales and this one is another good one. While it was on the shorter side, it made me hate the main character and then love her. Even though I knew it was a snow white retelling, I was shocked at the lengths that Arabellas own mother was willing to go to get rid of her. That twist with the mirror was awesome! I love love love that it was an actual person. And who he was is shocking in itself. Peter is so cute and I adore him with Arabella. The girls from the mill and Aurelia were perfect people to teach young Arabella the many lessons she needed to learn. I'm so glad she learned compassion and the value of hard work. It only made her a better person and an even better Queen.
February 2, 2022
I couldn't put this book down! It didn't take me very long to get hooked to the characters and story! Every chance I had I was reading more and more. I loved how this book included a beautiful romance, the discovery of new friendships, a mystery enemy, suspense, and a lovely (not over the top) homage to Snow White. I never saw the ending that came and was delightfully surprised with how everything came so neatly together. I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out! I highly recommend you read this treasure!
September 17, 2022
I went in blindly and it was really good. I liked the simple world building and how the princess changed throughout the book.
I believe that the princess got a very nice reality check and that she started to see and appreciate the people around her for everything they did for her.
I loved how her character developed and how the plot kept changing and me wanting to know more.
A lot of people say this is a snow white retelling because of what happens in this book but I just think that it is its own unique story that is similar in one part but not the rest.
I would definitely Recommend.
I believe that the princess got a very nice reality check and that she started to see and appreciate the people around her for everything they did for her.
I loved how her character developed and how the plot kept changing and me wanting to know more.
A lot of people say this is a snow white retelling because of what happens in this book but I just think that it is its own unique story that is similar in one part but not the rest.
I would definitely Recommend.
November 7, 2022
This book was captivating! In the first few chapters, I was amused by Princess Arabella's stubborn, selfish, and cunning ways. Throughout the story, I enjoyed her growth, learning, and love. Although the title stated that this was a re-telling of Snow White, I couldn't remember details of the original tale. After finishing "Poisoned Heart" I reviewed the original tale of Snow White; I was so impressed with the cleverness of the Poisoned Heart story! Such a wonderful twist of The Seven Dwarfs, The Mirror, the poisoned apple, and Love's First Kiss.
May 17, 2022
Poisoned Heart by Abigail Manning, was an excellent retelling of the Snow White story. I loved the gender swapping of the 7 "dwarves", the sweet romance that blossoms throughout the book, and the level of suspense about the outcome. Not predictable, keeps you guessing, and characters you'll love. I love a good fairy tale retelling and this one did not disappoint!
October 1, 2024
I absolutely love love love fairytale retailings. This was a retailing of Snow White. Princess Arabella leaves her castle quickly, believing she can trust the soldier who tells her she is in danger. She soon learns he is not on her side and is a trained assassin. He tells her she has 24 hours to run, and then he will be on the hunt for her.
There is romance and closed door. The love interest is so swoony and will have you seeing hearts for days!
This is the first in a series, but can be read fine as a standalone. If you do plan on reading the rest of the series, I think I read somewhere while all the books can be read as stand alones and out of order it is better to read them in order because of spoilers as the characters are all from the same realm and so their lives will cross.
There is romance and closed door. The love interest is so swoony and will have you seeing hearts for days!
This is the first in a series, but can be read fine as a standalone. If you do plan on reading the rest of the series, I think I read somewhere while all the books can be read as stand alones and out of order it is better to read them in order because of spoilers as the characters are all from the same realm and so their lives will cross.
July 12, 2022
First in clean fairytale retelling series.
Book 1, Princess Arabella is our Snow White figure of the story. Her journey is a bit humorous and sometimes endearing.
It is a clean sweet romance and I recommend.
Book 1, Princess Arabella is our Snow White figure of the story. Her journey is a bit humorous and sometimes endearing.
It is a clean sweet romance and I recommend.
July 13, 2022
This book really keep me interested
The great plot twists and the strong, fun loving characters will have you addicted from page one! Can't wait to get into Author Abigail Mannings next book.
The great plot twists and the strong, fun loving characters will have you addicted from page one! Can't wait to get into Author Abigail Mannings next book.
January 14, 2026
Whew! What a ride. There were some plot points I thought I got pivot to doubt myself, change my mind obit to be proven right. A few missing words in this one. Not enough to toss you out of the fantastic story though! Very clever retelling!
July 14, 2022
Loved it!
I picked up this book because I saw the beautiful covers online. I love fairytale retellings that are not so close to the original that the story is predictable, and I was not disappointed. Just a few details from Snow White but definitely its own story.
I picked up this book because I saw the beautiful covers online. I love fairytale retellings that are not so close to the original that the story is predictable, and I was not disappointed. Just a few details from Snow White but definitely its own story.
May 19, 2022
A clean uplifting adventure with a storybook romance. I finished it so fast because I could not stop turning the pages! I love the imagery of the detailed descriptions and I can’t wait to read the next book.
June 16, 2022
I LOVED this story!! It is such a creative retelling of the story and it really surprised me in some areas.
December 3, 2021
If you enjoy the classic fairytales but don't want the same old story, this is the book for you. It has elements of the original tale but told in a new and refreshing way.the characters are charming and you often find yourself loving and hating the hero's and villians because the story draws you in. It's a short read perfect for if you have a day to just relax and dive into a new twist on an old tale. Perfect for younger female audience that love a clean romance with good plot that has lovable side characters.
February 18, 2022
I barely got through this book. I needs more editing and vocabulary work (it's imminent danger, not eminent danger). And I didn't really know what was happening for the whole book, and not in a good way. I also didn't feel anything through the whole book. No suspense, no foreboding, no hope and joy for the lovers, no surprise at the "twist." The characters were also pretty dumb. Of course the assassin was lying. What self-respecting assassin will tell the victim who exactly is trying to kill them, and then miss multiple opportunities to kill her? I'm still confused how the poison kept killing Arabella even after the medicine, but maybe I skimmed over that part. Thank goodness it was short.
I will give props to an original way to retell Snow White. Creativity was there, execution was not.
I will give props to an original way to retell Snow White. Creativity was there, execution was not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2022
If this had been marketed as a middle grade book I'd have enjoyed it a lot more. But since it was marketed as a YA book I expected the narration, plot, and character development to be a lot more mature. The language of the narration felt rudimentary, every problem Arabella encountered was solved fairly easily, and the romance felt SO forced and cheesy. It was insta-love and I didn't see much chemistry between the characters at all. Again, if I were 10 years old or expecting to read a children's book I'd have enjoyed it a lot more.
February 17, 2025
Content:
Profanity: None.
Violence: Mild. There is mostly threat on page, dagger to the throat, dodging arrows etc. There is an aspect of poisoning and being ill in that way, but no blood depicted that I recall.
Sexual: Mild. Hand holding, hugs, and chaste kissing.
Trigger: Negligent/manipulative parental figures.
Snow White has never been my favorite fairy tale, so it's hard to impress me with retellings (but there are some freaking amazing ones I've read that I adore) so it's not surprising that this one fell into the 'meh' category for me.
There were some unique story choices that were fun, namely the 7 laundresses that stood in for the dwarves, and The Mirror was an interesting aspect that really hooked my interest the most out of everything in the book. I wanna know the story there, a lot. And the author had me low-key frustrated/obsessed with the "is she evil or isn't she?" on Arabella's (Snow White's) mother. Which I won't tell, because that's half the fun.
The romance was instant. It was boring and had little depth or connection. Arabella is attracted on a surface level to Peter for the entire book. The only thing I can say about him is he's sweet and he's protective. But we don't get any background on him, and the one time there's tension between the two of them, I was trying to figure out what the heck happened. It was not well written at all. He suddenly goes cold without warning or a real explanation, then he's fine the next day again. It was an obvious forced tension moment that was poorly executed.
Arabella's character arc was lack-luster as well. She's touted as spoiled and proud, but the second she's put into danger her entire personality about-faced without any conflict besides one tiny scene where she says something about nobility not conversing with servants. It was too easy, and therefore unrealistic. It made it hard to like her, or to believe much of anything that is stated in the book as "Fact" about her (the proud brat thing). She didn't display this much at all. It made her 'change of heart' vague and boring.
Overall, it was a fluff read that I had a hard time getting through. I know this is one of the author's earlier books, and I've read her later works, so I know she's improved a lot. And I also started the next book in the Emerald Realm series, and I already like it ten times better than this one.
So, I didn't hate it, didn't love it.
The epilogue though...that got me wanting the story of the Ashbourne peeps. Interesting royalty you got there.
Profanity: None.
Violence: Mild. There is mostly threat on page, dagger to the throat, dodging arrows etc. There is an aspect of poisoning and being ill in that way, but no blood depicted that I recall.
Sexual: Mild. Hand holding, hugs, and chaste kissing.
Trigger: Negligent/manipulative parental figures.
Snow White has never been my favorite fairy tale, so it's hard to impress me with retellings (but there are some freaking amazing ones I've read that I adore) so it's not surprising that this one fell into the 'meh' category for me.
There were some unique story choices that were fun, namely the 7 laundresses that stood in for the dwarves, and The Mirror was an interesting aspect that really hooked my interest the most out of everything in the book. I wanna know the story there, a lot. And the author had me low-key frustrated/obsessed with the "is she evil or isn't she?" on Arabella's (Snow White's) mother. Which I won't tell, because that's half the fun.
The romance was instant. It was boring and had little depth or connection. Arabella is attracted on a surface level to Peter for the entire book. The only thing I can say about him is he's sweet and he's protective. But we don't get any background on him, and the one time there's tension between the two of them, I was trying to figure out what the heck happened. It was not well written at all. He suddenly goes cold without warning or a real explanation, then he's fine the next day again. It was an obvious forced tension moment that was poorly executed.
Arabella's character arc was lack-luster as well. She's touted as spoiled and proud, but the second she's put into danger her entire personality about-faced without any conflict besides one tiny scene where she says something about nobility not conversing with servants. It was too easy, and therefore unrealistic. It made it hard to like her, or to believe much of anything that is stated in the book as "Fact" about her (the proud brat thing). She didn't display this much at all. It made her 'change of heart' vague and boring.
Overall, it was a fluff read that I had a hard time getting through. I know this is one of the author's earlier books, and I've read her later works, so I know she's improved a lot. And I also started the next book in the Emerald Realm series, and I already like it ten times better than this one.
So, I didn't hate it, didn't love it.
The epilogue though...that got me wanting the story of the Ashbourne peeps. Interesting royalty you got there.
April 30, 2023
I love fairytale retellings. That's nothing new. If you've been following my reviews you know that I read around one a week. I guess it's because fairytales automatically come with a warm and comforting feeling (these ones at least), with some nice and heartwarming romance and since they mix the known and the unknown and promise a happily ever after the reads are pretty safe. So, I was very curious about this one!
I have to admit that this was not the kind of tale I had expected. I personally think that Snow White is one of the most interesting fairytales to retell. There are so many elements to play with, so many ways you can twist the tale and make it your own. However, in this book I never really reached the moment I got attached to the characters or was invested in the plot. It's hard to pinpoint what the issue is exactly.
I think my first issue is with the writing style. There was nothing really wrong with it, but it never felt like the book was an easy read. It was as if the flow of the sentences and the way I like to read simply didn't completely match. The second issue seems to be the plot and mostly the pacing. It feels like a lot of scenes are described in way too much detail even though they are not really important in the end. I guess it's to help us connect to the characters, but for me that didn't really work either.
And I guess that's partly because this Snow White feels off. I know that Snow White is naive and innocent and yet in this case it never really worked for me. It's hard to pinpoint why. I guess it's partly because it feels like she's not really learning or growing much during the story, although she does broaden her perspective. I guess it's mostly because there is a lot of tell and little show when it comes to her emotions and feelings.
I can't say it was a bad book. I just think there are way better fairytale retellings out there. I therefore won't be reading the sequel(s).
I have to admit that this was not the kind of tale I had expected. I personally think that Snow White is one of the most interesting fairytales to retell. There are so many elements to play with, so many ways you can twist the tale and make it your own. However, in this book I never really reached the moment I got attached to the characters or was invested in the plot. It's hard to pinpoint what the issue is exactly.
I think my first issue is with the writing style. There was nothing really wrong with it, but it never felt like the book was an easy read. It was as if the flow of the sentences and the way I like to read simply didn't completely match. The second issue seems to be the plot and mostly the pacing. It feels like a lot of scenes are described in way too much detail even though they are not really important in the end. I guess it's to help us connect to the characters, but for me that didn't really work either.
And I guess that's partly because this Snow White feels off. I know that Snow White is naive and innocent and yet in this case it never really worked for me. It's hard to pinpoint why. I guess it's partly because it feels like she's not really learning or growing much during the story, although she does broaden her perspective. I guess it's mostly because there is a lot of tell and little show when it comes to her emotions and feelings.
I can't say it was a bad book. I just think there are way better fairytale retellings out there. I therefore won't be reading the sequel(s).
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