What do you think?
Rate this book
Anchor and the Moon #1
Cinder and Black
I'm Cinder and I have a secret, many really.
From the outside, my life might seem easy, spoilt, even glamorous. Trust me, it's not.
I have the big house with the magnificent view and people to do my cooking and cleaning. I have everything I need and nothing I want.
But I meet someone. Someone kind, strong, reckless. Mother would not approve.
With him I feel free for the first time in years, but why have my nightmares returned and what is he doing every night while I sleep?
I'm Cinder and I'm beginning a new life. Will it be more dangerous than the one I am leaving behind?
Oh yes, I almost forgot, don't go out around here after dark..
From the outside, my life might seem easy, spoilt, even glamorous. Trust me, it's not.
I have the big house with the magnificent view and people to do my cooking and cleaning. I have everything I need and nothing I want.
But I meet someone. Someone kind, strong, reckless. Mother would not approve.
With him I feel free for the first time in years, but why have my nightmares returned and what is he doing every night while I sleep?
I'm Cinder and I'm beginning a new life. Will it be more dangerous than the one I am leaving behind?
Oh yes, I almost forgot, don't go out around here after dark..
236 pages, Paperback
Published October 11, 2021
21 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Maxx Victor
8 books15 followersMaxx Victor is an Australian author, musician, and secondary school science teacher, who has achieved award winning success with his short stories. A dedicated husband and proud father of two, he is also highly involved in his local arts community; performing in bands and producing and directing amateur films.
Maxx’s author journey began at a very young age. As a child with dyslexia, reading and writing were a constant struggle. To help, his father implemented the nightly routine of reading Titin and Asterix comics and Biggles books to Maxx and his brother; installing a lifelong passion for reading. Maxx’s mother also encouraged him to write stories (some which he has kept to this day).
During his secondary school years, Maxx unearthed a love for music. He regularly wrote poetry and song lyrics, as well as scripts for plays and short films. Something again sparked the curiosity for writing stories when Maxx’s children were toddlers. He frequently created impromptu, twisted fairy-tale bedtime stories, with his family members as the main characters. Maxx now writes teen fiction and hopes that his writing can inspire young people to be defined by their passions and talents, not by the things that the world will tell them are impairments.
Maxx’s author journey began at a very young age. As a child with dyslexia, reading and writing were a constant struggle. To help, his father implemented the nightly routine of reading Titin and Asterix comics and Biggles books to Maxx and his brother; installing a lifelong passion for reading. Maxx’s mother also encouraged him to write stories (some which he has kept to this day).
During his secondary school years, Maxx unearthed a love for music. He regularly wrote poetry and song lyrics, as well as scripts for plays and short films. Something again sparked the curiosity for writing stories when Maxx’s children were toddlers. He frequently created impromptu, twisted fairy-tale bedtime stories, with his family members as the main characters. Maxx now writes teen fiction and hopes that his writing can inspire young people to be defined by their passions and talents, not by the things that the world will tell them are impairments.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 25, 2022
This retelling has the essential Cinderella elements, the evil stepmother, the kind and supportive godmother and the princess locked away from the world. There is a prince of sorts who she does run away from at midnight, but the remainder of this story is very different and such a wonderful surprise for those who love a twist. There are animals involved, but not the feathery, chirping kind.
The author had me guessing right up until about halfway through, as to who or what exactly Cinder and Black were. It is very cleverly hinted at, so you think you know, then surprise! I didn't see that coming! This was a captivating ploy and gave the story a very mysterious vibe. It certainly kept me turning pages. I don't want to give anything away, the mystery is one of the appeals of this book.
Plot – the way the author has structured the plot around the Cinderella story is brilliant. The more I think about aspects of this book, I find more Cinderella-type references that relate to these characters and their story. They are sometimes subtle and other times, obvious to the reader. The small nuances are what give the story it's magic. Once again I would love to give you examples, but I just don't want to spoil the story for anyone.
Characters – Cinder is the MC and she is complicated to say the least. She is a kick-ass type, yet seems very vulnerable and unsure of herself. I believe there is a lot more we can learn about Cinder in future books in this series, as she grows and becomes more sure of herself and her place in this strange world.
Black or Angus is also a complicated character. He is not the brash, confident type like Dom, his cousin. He is more serious and just as unsure as Cinder. There is mystery surrounding him and his family. The whole surfing at night, kind of freaked me out a bit – have they heard that Sharks feed at night!!!
Marraine, is another intriguing character. She is the not-so-good-fairy-godmother type. I hope we find out more of her story in the next book.
The setting of this story is inventive, I love the idea of the huge, creepy old mansion on the hillside overlooking a sleepy beach side town. The fact that the majority of the story takes place at night, adds to the mystery and the supernatural vibe. Maybe the whole night surfing thing, relates to the theme that in the dark, you are not sure what lurks just below the surface. The danger and excitement they feel, mimics what the reader feels in the action scenes of the book.
This is a book full of mystery and intrigue. I was hooked from the prologue, with it's 1865, New Orleans setting. Bringing that mystical, magical voodoo vibe from the start. Having reread the prologue after finishing the book, it provides yet more mystery and questions for the future. There is so much more to this story and I am very keen to find out where Cinder and Black go from here. I am sure there are many more surprises to come.
If you love a romance with a Cinderella theme and a supernatural twist, you will love this book.
The author had me guessing right up until about halfway through, as to who or what exactly Cinder and Black were. It is very cleverly hinted at, so you think you know, then surprise! I didn't see that coming! This was a captivating ploy and gave the story a very mysterious vibe. It certainly kept me turning pages. I don't want to give anything away, the mystery is one of the appeals of this book.
Plot – the way the author has structured the plot around the Cinderella story is brilliant. The more I think about aspects of this book, I find more Cinderella-type references that relate to these characters and their story. They are sometimes subtle and other times, obvious to the reader. The small nuances are what give the story it's magic. Once again I would love to give you examples, but I just don't want to spoil the story for anyone.
Characters – Cinder is the MC and she is complicated to say the least. She is a kick-ass type, yet seems very vulnerable and unsure of herself. I believe there is a lot more we can learn about Cinder in future books in this series, as she grows and becomes more sure of herself and her place in this strange world.
Black or Angus is also a complicated character. He is not the brash, confident type like Dom, his cousin. He is more serious and just as unsure as Cinder. There is mystery surrounding him and his family. The whole surfing at night, kind of freaked me out a bit – have they heard that Sharks feed at night!!!
Marraine, is another intriguing character. She is the not-so-good-fairy-godmother type. I hope we find out more of her story in the next book.
The setting of this story is inventive, I love the idea of the huge, creepy old mansion on the hillside overlooking a sleepy beach side town. The fact that the majority of the story takes place at night, adds to the mystery and the supernatural vibe. Maybe the whole night surfing thing, relates to the theme that in the dark, you are not sure what lurks just below the surface. The danger and excitement they feel, mimics what the reader feels in the action scenes of the book.
This is a book full of mystery and intrigue. I was hooked from the prologue, with it's 1865, New Orleans setting. Bringing that mystical, magical voodoo vibe from the start. Having reread the prologue after finishing the book, it provides yet more mystery and questions for the future. There is so much more to this story and I am very keen to find out where Cinder and Black go from here. I am sure there are many more surprises to come.
If you love a romance with a Cinderella theme and a supernatural twist, you will love this book.
September 5, 2025
Cinder and Black is amazing star crossed lovers with paranormal romance with the twisted take of Cinderella loved this recommend for anyone that loves Shakespeare Romeo and Juliet and Disney Cinderella and twisted tales
the characters are amazing great way to start the series I will definitely be purchasing the rest of the series
the characters are amazing great way to start the series I will definitely be purchasing the rest of the series
July 5, 2022
One of my most favourite things about a book is if it can make me laugh. And this one did! The banter between characters was so cheeky, I really loved it.
The story introduces us to Cinder, a girl who is mistreated and trapped by her mother, until she leaves on a trip. Suddenly, Cinder is free to celebrate her birthday in town with her family friend. There she meets Angus, also known as Black, and the two hit it off. But they both have secrets they can't tell the other.
There were definitely times I felt that this book could have used a female beta reader to point out some of the situations that were portrayed as normal, but that would make a young woman actually feel uncomfortable. But overall I did enjoy the story, and was surprised by some of the reveals! Also, it is set in Australia, which is rare for fantasy or paranormal so I loved that!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a review copy.
The story introduces us to Cinder, a girl who is mistreated and trapped by her mother, until she leaves on a trip. Suddenly, Cinder is free to celebrate her birthday in town with her family friend. There she meets Angus, also known as Black, and the two hit it off. But they both have secrets they can't tell the other.
There were definitely times I felt that this book could have used a female beta reader to point out some of the situations that were portrayed as normal, but that would make a young woman actually feel uncomfortable. But overall I did enjoy the story, and was surprised by some of the reveals! Also, it is set in Australia, which is rare for fantasy or paranormal so I loved that!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a review copy.
March 7, 2022
I think the prologue did a great job at setting the scene for this story, with Black strolling along the French Quarter of New Orleans.
As well as being labeled a paranormal romance, I would also say this story has the undertone of a rom-com. Some of the the scenes were very comical, and the banter between characters literally had me laughing out loud.
I must say, this story was completely unpredictable and I was left trying to guess what the big secret was the whole way through. I definitely wasn’t expecting the ending I got!
If your looking for a fun paranormal romance with an added mystery, you should definitely give Cinder and Black a read.
As well as being labeled a paranormal romance, I would also say this story has the undertone of a rom-com. Some of the the scenes were very comical, and the banter between characters literally had me laughing out loud.
I must say, this story was completely unpredictable and I was left trying to guess what the big secret was the whole way through. I definitely wasn’t expecting the ending I got!
If your looking for a fun paranormal romance with an added mystery, you should definitely give Cinder and Black a read.
October 3, 2022
Good fast paced read
I enjoyed the characters in this book and it was a perfect start of a series. I am looking forward to following up what happens next. The characters were well written and likeable.
I enjoyed the characters in this book and it was a perfect start of a series. I am looking forward to following up what happens next. The characters were well written and likeable.
June 10, 2022
Book: Cinder and Black
Author: Maxx Victor
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cinder and Black is the first book in the Anchor and Moon series. A paranormal romance that is also a fairytale retelling with a twist- I was hooked straight away! This is a really unique, interesting story that is like none other I’ve read before. It follows the titular characters as they meet one night and instantly have a connection. However, all is not as it seems and both Cinder and Black have secrets they are hiding.
Filled with unexpected twists, the audience dives straight into the story. This is quite a short book, at 236 pages- it is also incredibly easy to binge. I was a little confused at the start and felt that there could have been some more world building. However, as I continued to read I came to the conclusion that this was a deliberate choice in order to shroud the story in more mystery and keep the reader wondering.
I would have loved for this book to be a little longer and have some more details filled in- because I really enjoyed what I read and just wanted more! There was great banter between the characters and the characters themselves were all really interesting, so it would have been great to get to know them more too, as well as having a bit of a deeper insight into Cinder and Black.
I rate Cinder and Black 4⭐️ and look forward to the next book in the series being released because I feel like the world of Cinder and Black is just getting started.
Author: Maxx Victor
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cinder and Black is the first book in the Anchor and Moon series. A paranormal romance that is also a fairytale retelling with a twist- I was hooked straight away! This is a really unique, interesting story that is like none other I’ve read before. It follows the titular characters as they meet one night and instantly have a connection. However, all is not as it seems and both Cinder and Black have secrets they are hiding.
Filled with unexpected twists, the audience dives straight into the story. This is quite a short book, at 236 pages- it is also incredibly easy to binge. I was a little confused at the start and felt that there could have been some more world building. However, as I continued to read I came to the conclusion that this was a deliberate choice in order to shroud the story in more mystery and keep the reader wondering.
I would have loved for this book to be a little longer and have some more details filled in- because I really enjoyed what I read and just wanted more! There was great banter between the characters and the characters themselves were all really interesting, so it would have been great to get to know them more too, as well as having a bit of a deeper insight into Cinder and Black.
I rate Cinder and Black 4⭐️ and look forward to the next book in the series being released because I feel like the world of Cinder and Black is just getting started.
Read
December 31, 2021Firstly congratulations on writing your book and for this gifted copy to read and review!
Basically there are two main stories here in 'Cinder and Black' each with their own MC and eventually the two stories combine and become one.
Story one involves Cinder who lives in this huge house, hates her life and personality wise- appears tough and strong.
Story two follows an MC called Black and his group of surfer friends who hang out together and joke around.
Eventually both Cinder and Black meet and a whole bunch of stuff happens (which I'm not getting into coz that will involve spoilers!). But let me just say it certainly is action packed and the dialogue at times is fun and funny - especially the banter between some of the characters.
This isn't your average read, it's fast, magical and mysterious at times.
Well done Maxx Victor!
Basically there are two main stories here in 'Cinder and Black' each with their own MC and eventually the two stories combine and become one.
Story one involves Cinder who lives in this huge house, hates her life and personality wise- appears tough and strong.
Story two follows an MC called Black and his group of surfer friends who hang out together and joke around.
Eventually both Cinder and Black meet and a whole bunch of stuff happens (which I'm not getting into coz that will involve spoilers!). But let me just say it certainly is action packed and the dialogue at times is fun and funny - especially the banter between some of the characters.
This isn't your average read, it's fast, magical and mysterious at times.
Well done Maxx Victor!
September 7, 2022
After reading the blurb, I was so excited to get my hands on a copy of Cinder and Black. Maxx has done an amazing job bringing the story of Cinder and Angus to life. Throughout the story, I could almost smell the salty air, and hear the washing of the waves against the night-cooled sand of a dark beach. Most of the book had the vibe of a gorgeous, sleepy seaside town just sailing along, but with an undercurrent of danger that most of its inhabitants remained oblivious to. Learning about the world through Cinder's eyes, and that of the colourful and amusing cast of characters was a real treat. If you like shifters, YA, a little hint of darkness, some good teenage angst, and budding romance, this is the book for you.
June 2, 2022
Cinder and Black features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ YA fantasy
○ Cinderella retelling
○ Paranormal
○ Secrets
○ Friendship
○ Light romance
My overall rating for Cinder and Black is...
3 Stars
The idea behind this book was intriguing and had huge potential, but the presentation fell flat for me. I loved the unique combination of paranormal fantasy and Cinderella retelling. Unfortunately, i struggled with the writing style the author used and often found myself feeling confused over the sudden character focus changes. Overall, I did enjoy the book and the unique plot, but it didn't pull me in as much as I'd hoped.
○ YA fantasy
○ Cinderella retelling
○ Paranormal
○ Secrets
○ Friendship
○ Light romance
My overall rating for Cinder and Black is...
3 Stars
The idea behind this book was intriguing and had huge potential, but the presentation fell flat for me. I loved the unique combination of paranormal fantasy and Cinderella retelling. Unfortunately, i struggled with the writing style the author used and often found myself feeling confused over the sudden character focus changes. Overall, I did enjoy the book and the unique plot, but it didn't pull me in as much as I'd hoped.
May 6, 2024
Masterful Retelling
Victor spins an old tale with new thread. The tension created to heighten the love story between Cinder and Black brings the original love story to new levels.
As the story unfolds you can feel the tension between rival factions thickening the more the secrets become dangerous to everyone's health. The twists and turns making this story unique from its original telling highlight the masterful storytelling.
Victor spins an old tale with new thread. The tension created to heighten the love story between Cinder and Black brings the original love story to new levels.
As the story unfolds you can feel the tension between rival factions thickening the more the secrets become dangerous to everyone's health. The twists and turns making this story unique from its original telling highlight the masterful storytelling.
September 25, 2024
I loved "Cinder and Black", the story kept me engrossed right from the start!. I am all for Fairytale twist and loved the mythological Cinderella spin. I think this story appeals to a wide audience, with different Genre themes of Rom-Com (their were parts I was in hysterics), Romance, Mythological and of course Fairytale.
Maxx Victor has produced a great read and I love supporting Indie Authors to.
Please read you will not be disappointed.
Maxx Victor has produced a great read and I love supporting Indie Authors to.
Please read you will not be disappointed.
May 31, 2023
Love between an a man and a lykan!
He is a relative of those Angels who fall in love with human females! So what does he do!? Falls for a human! She is not human but he loves her anyway!
He is a relative of those Angels who fall in love with human females! So what does he do!? Falls for a human! She is not human but he loves her anyway!
December 12, 2025
Mean rating for book club is 3-stars. Members feel the book seemed a little rushed and could have had a more interesting dynamic between the main characters. Members enjoyed the book but thought it had more potential.
January 1, 2022
You won't be able to put this down! A great mix of humor, mystery, action, and romance. It's like Twilight and Shadow hunters had a summer fling.
March 31, 2023
I purchased this book whilst at the Ballarat market and I wasn't disappointed. Great story line and I thoroughly enjoyed.
August 18, 2023
If you like fairytale inspired, YA paranormal/shifter romance with lots of action, then you’ll love this book!
January 5, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Such a different retelling of the classic Cinderella story with supernatural creatures and twists that I never saw coming. Maxx writes so incredibly well that I was hooked from chapter one!
I loved the small town feel that Cinder was introduced to and the characters she got to know and became close to as well. I loved the idea of the midnight surfing boys and how the family work and live together each day, and trying to protect the town from creatures they aren’t aware are in the town
I cannot wait to read the second book! Highly recommend!
I loved the small town feel that Cinder was introduced to and the characters she got to know and became close to as well. I loved the idea of the midnight surfing boys and how the family work and live together each day, and trying to protect the town from creatures they aren’t aware are in the town
I cannot wait to read the second book! Highly recommend!
August 3, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This story started out slow for me but by the end of chapter two I was hooked. Cinder has been living a sheltered life in the shadows because of her mother but on her 21st birthday everything changes when she meets Black. Cinder feels that there are secrets that Black and his family are keeping from her but with her own secrets who does she trust.
This story started out slow for me but by the end of chapter two I was hooked. Cinder has been living a sheltered life in the shadows because of her mother but on her 21st birthday everything changes when she meets Black. Cinder feels that there are secrets that Black and his family are keeping from her but with her own secrets who does she trust.
October 3, 2025
Great Concept. Needs More.
The story seemed a bit rushed and the love-interest build up could have been done better, but the concept is a solid one. Maybe if it was longer, it wouldn’t feel so unevenly paced. Definitely not bad, but it has the potential to be so much better!
The story seemed a bit rushed and the love-interest build up could have been done better, but the concept is a solid one. Maybe if it was longer, it wouldn’t feel so unevenly paced. Definitely not bad, but it has the potential to be so much better!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews