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The Glass Gate: A Retelling of Cinderella
Sometimes all a girl needs is a good dress and some magic shoes.
Prince Charming is optional.
My goal was simple: create a killer fashion design portfolio, win the scholarship to the school of my dreams, and never have to clean my step-family’s house again. I just needed some inspiration. Something to set my portfolio apart from all the other up-and-coming designers. A little fashion magic.
I didn’t expect literal magic.
But then my friend dressed me up like a fae princess, and whisked me away to Faerie. The food! The dancing! The dresses! This was just the inspiration I needed, so when the crown prince asked me to stay and be his fake girlfriend, I jumped at the opportunity.
Prince Tiernan is gorgeous and charming, but I’m just a part of a plot to find his bride. That’s fine by me. I’m just here for the fashion. No messy feelings. On the other hand, it’s very hard to not have my head turned by a boy who gives me a dragon egg.
The longer I stay in Faerie with Tiernan, the more caught up I get in the magic of his kingdom, and I start to believe the stories we’re spinning for everyone. Stories of magic and sacrifice and maybe even true love.
I can’t lose sight of my goals. I need to win that scholarship. Putting my heart on the line for a prince and his kingdom is just too risky. Am I brave enough to try? Maybe if I find the right dress.
Where’s a fairy godmother when you need one?
Prince Charming is optional.
My goal was simple: create a killer fashion design portfolio, win the scholarship to the school of my dreams, and never have to clean my step-family’s house again. I just needed some inspiration. Something to set my portfolio apart from all the other up-and-coming designers. A little fashion magic.
I didn’t expect literal magic.
But then my friend dressed me up like a fae princess, and whisked me away to Faerie. The food! The dancing! The dresses! This was just the inspiration I needed, so when the crown prince asked me to stay and be his fake girlfriend, I jumped at the opportunity.
Prince Tiernan is gorgeous and charming, but I’m just a part of a plot to find his bride. That’s fine by me. I’m just here for the fashion. No messy feelings. On the other hand, it’s very hard to not have my head turned by a boy who gives me a dragon egg.
The longer I stay in Faerie with Tiernan, the more caught up I get in the magic of his kingdom, and I start to believe the stories we’re spinning for everyone. Stories of magic and sacrifice and maybe even true love.
I can’t lose sight of my goals. I need to win that scholarship. Putting my heart on the line for a prince and his kingdom is just too risky. Am I brave enough to try? Maybe if I find the right dress.
Where’s a fairy godmother when you need one?
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2022
67 people are currently reading
1378 people want to read
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September 23, 2023
3.5/4 stars, personally.
Based off of my recent reads, I’m apparently in a fairytale retelling mood. ✨
I totally took a chance on this book when Amazon randomly decided to meddle and show me this book I’d never seen before. (I say meddle because it’s book two in a series and I didn’t even notice when looking at this book??) When I first read the backcover of this book, I literally went “Oooooh~!” out loud and downloaded it right away because, well, go read it and come back. Doesn’t it sound so interesting? I’m not really one for faes and all of that, but I grew up in the Pixie Hollow franchise and this fairy world really reminded me of that (+ a manga or manhwa because of the plot).
I was completely sucked into this book. I read The Lunar Chronicles for the first time earlier this year and it reminded me of it—but only because of the unique reimaging of Cinderella and because it was kind of addicting to read, hahaha. Did it have quite a few clichés and go almost exactly how I was expecting at times? Yes, but I really didn’t care. Their emotions and falling in love happened really quick, but, again, don’t care because I was enjoying the book with the faking dating trope.
I do wish there had been more politics in the fairy world, but that’s probably only me who wished for that. I think having a bit more about the workings of the world would have added more layers besides the whole “Crown Prince has to marry” plot line (which I liked regardless but it would have been nice to have more details on the fairy world and how everything works). I wanted more of his POV and I’ll be honest that I’m ignoring the age difference thing because that’s weird but common for fairy books (so I’ve been told).
Was this perfect? No, but it was a lot of fun. It was also pretty clean which I really appreciate since I knew nothing about this author or the book besides what the backcover said. A risky move, definitely, but it paid off with a fun and imaginative story. I definitely plan to see about the rest of the series and possibly go back and read the first book because Amazon had the audacity to show me book 2 first.
Main Content-
Fairytale magic, magical hums in the air, faeries, curses, and all of that (As they say on TikTok, it's giving Pixie Hollow 😌); Lots of mystical, magical beings that are in fairytales and folklore; Humans can learn magic as well but we don't see really any of that besides a couple mentions; There's some mentions of spells, but we don't see any casted on page; Different gates/portals for going to the human world and the faerie world; A priestess officiates a wedding; A few mentions of Danu (an Irish goddess) as an exclamation and for "Danu help us all"; A few mentions of Kami (a divine being in the Shinto religion); A few mentions of superstitions & luck; A couple mentions of praying (but it's never said who they are praying to); A couple mentions of a priest; A mention of a sin.
Prologue starts off with Tiernan's mother dying after childbirth; A couple of assassination attempts; Ella has anxiety and we see her have a couple anxiety attacks along with some discussions about mental health; Some references to pop culture (Project Runaway, The Queen's Gambit, Lokie, Netflix, Harry Styles, & Chris Hemsworth); Mentions of deaths & grief (including a man who was never the same after his wife died); Mentions of wars, deaths, & countries trading their children to prevent wars; Mentions of humans being "glamoured" (enslaved) by the faes in their world (Ella is very uncomfortable with this and other magical creatures being trapped along with the servants not being paid well); Mentions of alcohol & social drinking at parties; Mentions of peeing (& a cut off explanation of how guys use the bathroom when in a tree).
No language stronger than "crap" and "frickin'"; The phrase "Sweet Duna" is used as an exclamation (Danu is an Irish goddess); Ella is lying to the others about being a human and feels guilt about it; Ella's stepfamily are the classic evil stepfamily (think the Hilary Duff Cinderella movie for comparison level).
An almost kiss and about a ten or so kisses (longest one lasts a few sentences or semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Warmth, etc (up to semi-detailed); Tiernan teases Ella by taking off his shirt with sparing (he does this on purpose and flexes to show off his tattoos); Ella and Tiernan have a big age difference (19 and 199) but faes live for a loooooong time and look young; Ella's friend calls Tiernan different forms of "hot/hottie", also says that Ella looks "smexy" once, and they both call Tiernan delicious a couple times; Tiernan is known to be a flirt and leave a trail of broken hearts (he says that he's never done more than kiss a girl though as he's loyal to his future queen); When planning the fake dating, Ella adds the rule about "no bedroom business"; Ends with a wedding night, going into a bedroom, and mentions of clothes; A couple mentions of a honeymoon (which makes Ella blush).
Based off of my recent reads, I’m apparently in a fairytale retelling mood. ✨
I totally took a chance on this book when Amazon randomly decided to meddle and show me this book I’d never seen before. (I say meddle because it’s book two in a series and I didn’t even notice when looking at this book??) When I first read the backcover of this book, I literally went “Oooooh~!” out loud and downloaded it right away because, well, go read it and come back. Doesn’t it sound so interesting? I’m not really one for faes and all of that, but I grew up in the Pixie Hollow franchise and this fairy world really reminded me of that (+ a manga or manhwa because of the plot).
I was completely sucked into this book. I read The Lunar Chronicles for the first time earlier this year and it reminded me of it—but only because of the unique reimaging of Cinderella and because it was kind of addicting to read, hahaha. Did it have quite a few clichés and go almost exactly how I was expecting at times? Yes, but I really didn’t care. Their emotions and falling in love happened really quick, but, again, don’t care because I was enjoying the book with the faking dating trope.
I do wish there had been more politics in the fairy world, but that’s probably only me who wished for that. I think having a bit more about the workings of the world would have added more layers besides the whole “Crown Prince has to marry” plot line (which I liked regardless but it would have been nice to have more details on the fairy world and how everything works). I wanted more of his POV and I’ll be honest that I’m ignoring the age difference thing because that’s weird but common for fairy books (so I’ve been told).
Was this perfect? No, but it was a lot of fun. It was also pretty clean which I really appreciate since I knew nothing about this author or the book besides what the backcover said. A risky move, definitely, but it paid off with a fun and imaginative story. I definitely plan to see about the rest of the series and possibly go back and read the first book because Amazon had the audacity to show me book 2 first.
Main Content-
Fairytale magic, magical hums in the air, faeries, curses, and all of that (As they say on TikTok, it's giving Pixie Hollow 😌); Lots of mystical, magical beings that are in fairytales and folklore; Humans can learn magic as well but we don't see really any of that besides a couple mentions; There's some mentions of spells, but we don't see any casted on page; Different gates/portals for going to the human world and the faerie world; A priestess officiates a wedding; A few mentions of Danu (an Irish goddess) as an exclamation and for "Danu help us all"; A few mentions of Kami (a divine being in the Shinto religion); A few mentions of superstitions & luck; A couple mentions of praying (but it's never said who they are praying to); A couple mentions of a priest; A mention of a sin.
Prologue starts off with Tiernan's mother dying after childbirth; A couple of assassination attempts; Ella has anxiety and we see her have a couple anxiety attacks along with some discussions about mental health; Some references to pop culture (Project Runaway, The Queen's Gambit, Lokie, Netflix, Harry Styles, & Chris Hemsworth); Mentions of deaths & grief (including a man who was never the same after his wife died); Mentions of wars, deaths, & countries trading their children to prevent wars; Mentions of humans being "glamoured" (enslaved) by the faes in their world (Ella is very uncomfortable with this and other magical creatures being trapped along with the servants not being paid well); Mentions of alcohol & social drinking at parties; Mentions of peeing (& a cut off explanation of how guys use the bathroom when in a tree).
No language stronger than "crap" and "frickin'"; The phrase "Sweet Duna" is used as an exclamation (Danu is an Irish goddess); Ella is lying to the others about being a human and feels guilt about it; Ella's stepfamily are the classic evil stepfamily (think the Hilary Duff Cinderella movie for comparison level).
An almost kiss and about a ten or so kisses (longest one lasts a few sentences or semi-detailed); Touches, Embraces, Dancing, Warmth, etc (up to semi-detailed); Tiernan teases Ella by taking off his shirt with sparing (he does this on purpose and flexes to show off his tattoos); Ella and Tiernan have a big age difference (19 and 199) but faes live for a loooooong time and look young; Ella's friend calls Tiernan different forms of "hot/hottie", also says that Ella looks "smexy" once, and they both call Tiernan delicious a couple times; Tiernan is known to be a flirt and leave a trail of broken hearts (he says that he's never done more than kiss a girl though as he's loyal to his future queen); When planning the fake dating, Ella adds the rule about "no bedroom business"; Ends with a wedding night, going into a bedroom, and mentions of clothes; A couple mentions of a honeymoon (which makes Ella blush).
July 5, 2022
5 stars // read June 2022
things I really liked:
-Worldbuilding! One of the reasons I loved the Rose Gate was the way Irish mythology was incorporated, and this book continued with that. As someone who has an (admittedly distant) Irish background, it's so cool to see fantasy with those elements. Plus, how can you go wrong with tiny dragons ?!? *heart eyes*
-Characters! Three cheers for a realistic depiction of social anxiety. While it wasn't the focus of the book, I really appreciate the way that topic was handled. Also, unlike so many books with "culturally diverse" characters that only include different ethnicities for brownie points, the MC's Canadian-Japanese background added to the story. The side characters were also really unique; even the ones that didn't have much screen time didn't feel like stereotypes.
I could go on about the romance and the gorgeous cover, but suffice it to say that I enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a sweet, original retelling.
content: none! :)
disclaimer: An enormous thank-you to the author for giving me an ARC!! I was not obligated in any way to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
things I really liked:
-Worldbuilding! One of the reasons I loved the Rose Gate was the way Irish mythology was incorporated, and this book continued with that. As someone who has an (admittedly distant) Irish background, it's so cool to see fantasy with those elements. Plus, how can you go wrong with tiny dragons ?!? *heart eyes*
-Characters! Three cheers for a realistic depiction of social anxiety. While it wasn't the focus of the book, I really appreciate the way that topic was handled. Also, unlike so many books with "culturally diverse" characters that only include different ethnicities for brownie points, the MC's Canadian-Japanese background added to the story. The side characters were also really unique; even the ones that didn't have much screen time didn't feel like stereotypes.
I could go on about the romance and the gorgeous cover, but suffice it to say that I enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it to anyone who's looking for a sweet, original retelling.
content: none! :)
disclaimer: An enormous thank-you to the author for giving me an ARC!! I was not obligated in any way to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
May 31, 2022
This lovely retelling of Cinderella spans human and fae worlds. In the human realm, Ella is forced to slave away in her home and stepmother's dress shop. Prince Tiernan, heir to the Seelie kingdom, must find a bride by his 200th birthday or marry a woman of his father's choosing. When Ella overhears the prince's dilemma, she volunteers to step in as his pretend fiancée. Of course, he makes her promise not to fall in love with him. But that won't be easy, because the more she gets to know him, the more of a Prince Charming he turns out to be.
There are so many things to love about this story. The characters are wonderful. The scheming fairy godmother is a librarian in Ella's hometown who is unlikely to return to Faerie until she watches the final episodes of her favorite TV series. Ella adopts a baby dragon that constantly steals her favorite snacks (and shiny things) and causes mischief around the palace. And there were other fun twists. Ella is frequently caught with ashes on her fingers from drawing, so the prince jokes that he might need to start calling her Cinder Ella. The dialogue and witty banter from the opening scene was outstanding!
But the story also tackled some hard issues. Anxiety and insomnia were addressed as normative. While medicines varied between the human and fae realms, those who struggled with anxiety had access to treatment and were shown compassion and understanding instead of judgment from those closest to them. I will be interested to see how these issues continue to play out in future books.
Hanna's stories have always immediately captured me, making me laugh and want to know more about the delightful characters on each page. This book was no exception. As always, I eagerly await whatever she writes next.
There are so many things to love about this story. The characters are wonderful. The scheming fairy godmother is a librarian in Ella's hometown who is unlikely to return to Faerie until she watches the final episodes of her favorite TV series. Ella adopts a baby dragon that constantly steals her favorite snacks (and shiny things) and causes mischief around the palace. And there were other fun twists. Ella is frequently caught with ashes on her fingers from drawing, so the prince jokes that he might need to start calling her Cinder Ella. The dialogue and witty banter from the opening scene was outstanding!
But the story also tackled some hard issues. Anxiety and insomnia were addressed as normative. While medicines varied between the human and fae realms, those who struggled with anxiety had access to treatment and were shown compassion and understanding instead of judgment from those closest to them. I will be interested to see how these issues continue to play out in future books.
Hanna's stories have always immediately captured me, making me laugh and want to know more about the delightful characters on each page. This book was no exception. As always, I eagerly await whatever she writes next.
July 3, 2022
A very satisfying delight!
[I recommend starting this series from the beginning, The Rose Gate, so you'll have a fuller idea of the background of the story that Ella stumbles into with Tiernan & the king]
I think Ella's story is my favorite. She's certainly sympathetic, but she's also warm, gifted & funny. - And her steps will make you want to lock them up for life!
I did have a little difficulty believing how readily she went with Tiernan. I have only low level anxiety, so don't need meds, & I still would have had to work overtime to talk myself into doing that.
It also gets a little cutesy at times, but it fits into the relatively light tone of the story. If you're looking for something deep & gritty, forget it; but if you enjoy modernized fairytales, this is a very satisfying delight!
*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
[I recommend starting this series from the beginning, The Rose Gate, so you'll have a fuller idea of the background of the story that Ella stumbles into with Tiernan & the king]
I think Ella's story is my favorite. She's certainly sympathetic, but she's also warm, gifted & funny. - And her steps will make you want to lock them up for life!
I did have a little difficulty believing how readily she went with Tiernan. I have only low level anxiety, so don't need meds, & I still would have had to work overtime to talk myself into doing that.
It also gets a little cutesy at times, but it fits into the relatively light tone of the story. If you're looking for something deep & gritty, forget it; but if you enjoy modernized fairytales, this is a very satisfying delight!
*Romance level: sweet kisses, nothing graphic
November 7, 2023
Exactly what I needed <3
June 23, 2022
3.5✨
This is a really lovely, whimsical Cinderella retelling perfect for young readers. It transported me straight into my childhood/adolescent years, where I devoured happily ever afters fairytales filled with magic, romance, and adventure.
This book combines modernity and fantasy quite well. I haven't read the first book in this interconnected series, so I was a bit taken aback when we transitioned from a magical faerie realm into the Instagram-riddled reality of our modern times. Yet as it went on, I thought the author seamlessly wove the two worlds together, heightening the magic of the tale and Ella's journey into it.
I enjoyed following Ella into the realm of faeries, dragons, and magic; it brought a lot of nostalgia of my young adolescent adventures in reading.
This is a really lovely, whimsical Cinderella retelling perfect for young readers. It transported me straight into my childhood/adolescent years, where I devoured happily ever afters fairytales filled with magic, romance, and adventure.
This book combines modernity and fantasy quite well. I haven't read the first book in this interconnected series, so I was a bit taken aback when we transitioned from a magical faerie realm into the Instagram-riddled reality of our modern times. Yet as it went on, I thought the author seamlessly wove the two worlds together, heightening the magic of the tale and Ella's journey into it.
I enjoyed following Ella into the realm of faeries, dragons, and magic; it brought a lot of nostalgia of my young adolescent adventures in reading.
June 26, 2022
Full of banter, whimsy and a shoulder sized dragon. What more could you want? With amazing fashion and advice on living with anxiety thrown in.
Read
August 12, 2024****DNFed at 47%****
Well, at least I’m cleaning out my Kindle…
There’s nothing wrong with this book besides that it’s more cozy fantasy then anything and I just don’t vibe with that genre very much. Also have a feeling the lying to each other fake dating plot line isn’t really my thing, especially since I’m suspecting this may end up with the over dramatic “you betrayed/lied to me!” plot device that I just hate, though that’s just a suspicion at this point.
I liked the interactions between our leads but they didn’t really have many by this point, oddly enough, and the tiny dragon was SO STINKING CUTE, but other then that I just don’t care enough to continue.
‼️Content (up to 47%)‼️
Language: crap; smexy; gee; freakin’
Violence: a knife is held to a character’s throat; injury and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: mild suggestive hints/comments; a kiss (not detailed); a guy is called hot
Other: magical races/objects/creatures; magic; fae; death and grief; abusive stepfamily
Well, at least I’m cleaning out my Kindle…
There’s nothing wrong with this book besides that it’s more cozy fantasy then anything and I just don’t vibe with that genre very much. Also have a feeling the lying to each other fake dating plot line isn’t really my thing, especially since I’m suspecting this may end up with the over dramatic “you betrayed/lied to me!” plot device that I just hate, though that’s just a suspicion at this point.
I liked the interactions between our leads but they didn’t really have many by this point, oddly enough, and the tiny dragon was SO STINKING CUTE, but other then that I just don’t care enough to continue.
‼️Content (up to 47%)‼️
Language: crap; smexy; gee; freakin’
Violence: a knife is held to a character’s throat; injury and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: mild suggestive hints/comments; a kiss (not detailed); a guy is called hot
Other: magical races/objects/creatures; magic; fae; death and grief; abusive stepfamily
March 27, 2025
Hanna is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors! I mean, fae, magic, romance, comedy, and overall fluff is exactly my cup of tea.
My only complaint about this book is sometimes it felt a little rushed. Not in pacing, but in how it felt like it was in a rush to be published and a few things may have been missed in the editing phases. But overall I of course still loved the book!
My only complaint about this book is sometimes it felt a little rushed. Not in pacing, but in how it felt like it was in a rush to be published and a few things may have been missed in the editing phases. But overall I of course still loved the book!
May 23, 2022
Cozy, clever, and adorable! You are not going to want to miss this one!
Read
December 8, 2024Je le DNF pour l'instant. Je n'arrive vraiment pas à accrocher.
Peut être que je le reprendrai en 2025...
Peut être que je le reprendrai en 2025...
June 23, 2022
** I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. **
What an incredible book! The plot and characters were very well written and a lot of fun to read about. And the world building was incredible!! There was the perfect amount of detail and action, and it was unique and refreshing. I absolutely loved it! I loved it so much, in fact, that I couldn't stop reading, even when I got to the point where my late-night reading turned into early morning reading, without any sleep in between. I have no regrets though because it was incredible! I was hooked from the very first line:
"I was eight when my mother died. Too young to realize how much she meant to me. Too naive to know I should be saying goodbye."
Wow. Isn't that incredible? It just tugs at your heartstrings, and rest of the book is even better. I found myself laughing out loud at certain points, trying not to tear up at others, and smiling throughout it all because it is such a great book. It was also clean, sweet, and very enjoyable. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, fantastical read filled with romance, hope, and an adorable baby dragon named Kiyo.
What an incredible book! The plot and characters were very well written and a lot of fun to read about. And the world building was incredible!! There was the perfect amount of detail and action, and it was unique and refreshing. I absolutely loved it! I loved it so much, in fact, that I couldn't stop reading, even when I got to the point where my late-night reading turned into early morning reading, without any sleep in between. I have no regrets though because it was incredible! I was hooked from the very first line:
"I was eight when my mother died. Too young to realize how much she meant to me. Too naive to know I should be saying goodbye."
Wow. Isn't that incredible? It just tugs at your heartstrings, and rest of the book is even better. I found myself laughing out loud at certain points, trying not to tear up at others, and smiling throughout it all because it is such a great book. It was also clean, sweet, and very enjoyable. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, fantastical read filled with romance, hope, and an adorable baby dragon named Kiyo.
September 3, 2022
4,5/5
Hace poco leí el nuevo libro de la saga Faerie Tale Romances de Hanna Sandvig y es de mis favoritos.
ㅤ
En esta ocasión nos encontramos con un retelling moderno de La Cenicienta lleno de fantasía, cultura asiática y dragones mágicos.
ㅤ
La historia me ha gustado mucho, ese fake dating en el que Ella y Tiernan fingen estar prometidos para poder llevar a cabo cada uno sus deseos, Ella pasar más tiempo en Faerie para crear diseños para su portfolio y Tiernan necesita tiempo para encontrar a la candidata perfecta para el trono.
ㅤ
Me ha gustado como poco a poco va surgiendo el amor. También me he sentido identificada con Ella, su inseguridad y andiedad. Y me ha encantado descubrir al verdadero Tiernan, ese que esconde delante de su padre.
ㅤ
Muy recomendado si os gustan los retellings y el inglés no es nada avanzado, así que podéis animaros a leerlo (se puede leer aunque no hayáis leído los anteriores)
-------------------------------------------
I recently read the new book in the Faerie Tale Romances seried by Hanna Sandvig and it's one of my favorites.
ㅤ
On this occasion we find a modern retelling of Cinderella full of fantasy, Asian culture and magical dragons.
ㅤ
I liked the story a lot, that fake dating trope in which Ella and Tiernan pretend to be engaged in order to carry out each of their wishes, Ella spending more time in Faerie to create designs for her portfolio and Tiernan needs time to find the perfect queen for the throne.
ㅤ
I liked how little by little love is emerging. I have also felt identified with Ella, her insecurity and anxiety. And I was delighted to discover the real Tiernan, the one he hides in front of his father.
ㅤ
Highly recommended if you like retellings (you can read it even if you haven't read the previous books)
Hace poco leí el nuevo libro de la saga Faerie Tale Romances de Hanna Sandvig y es de mis favoritos.
ㅤ
En esta ocasión nos encontramos con un retelling moderno de La Cenicienta lleno de fantasía, cultura asiática y dragones mágicos.
ㅤ
La historia me ha gustado mucho, ese fake dating en el que Ella y Tiernan fingen estar prometidos para poder llevar a cabo cada uno sus deseos, Ella pasar más tiempo en Faerie para crear diseños para su portfolio y Tiernan necesita tiempo para encontrar a la candidata perfecta para el trono.
ㅤ
Me ha gustado como poco a poco va surgiendo el amor. También me he sentido identificada con Ella, su inseguridad y andiedad. Y me ha encantado descubrir al verdadero Tiernan, ese que esconde delante de su padre.
ㅤ
Muy recomendado si os gustan los retellings y el inglés no es nada avanzado, así que podéis animaros a leerlo (se puede leer aunque no hayáis leído los anteriores)
-------------------------------------------
I recently read the new book in the Faerie Tale Romances seried by Hanna Sandvig and it's one of my favorites.
ㅤ
On this occasion we find a modern retelling of Cinderella full of fantasy, Asian culture and magical dragons.
ㅤ
I liked the story a lot, that fake dating trope in which Ella and Tiernan pretend to be engaged in order to carry out each of their wishes, Ella spending more time in Faerie to create designs for her portfolio and Tiernan needs time to find the perfect queen for the throne.
ㅤ
I liked how little by little love is emerging. I have also felt identified with Ella, her insecurity and anxiety. And I was delighted to discover the real Tiernan, the one he hides in front of his father.
ㅤ
Highly recommended if you like retellings (you can read it even if you haven't read the previous books)
June 30, 2022
The coziest of reads
The Glass Gate is a portal fantasy Cinderella retelling, and it's absolutely charming. When Ella's friend drags her through a fairy gate for a party, she stumbles on a charming prince, a world of magic, and, most importantly to her, a plethora of beautiful gowns to inspire her portfolio so she can get into a fashion design school and escape her awful stepmother.
This story has all the familiar elements of the original(not the original-original, it's not so gruesome as to be cutting off feet), but it spins them in new, fresh ways that leaves us with a cozy, funny story.
My favorite parts: Kiyohime. 100%. I will love this book forever for the tiny Japanese dragon. She's adorable, mischievous, and absolutely hilarious.
Ella made for a relatable, sweet MC. Her struggle with anxiety was familiar without pulling the story down into dark places.
Tiernan was occasionally a dumb dumb, but I really loved seeing him falling in love with Ella against his will. And even when I was exasperated with his choices, he was still a very likable character.
The found family themes were great, as was the selfless goals of the MCs. I did think the political intrigue aspects were a bit on the simplistic side, but that's not necessarily a complaint: some people want complex intrigue stories, but that's not what this story is about. This is a story about finding your place, accepting yourself and others, and standing up for what you believe in. And it achieves those things in a cozy, funny, sweet, romantic plot and setting.
I received an ARC of this book, and I wrote this review completely willingly.
The Glass Gate is a portal fantasy Cinderella retelling, and it's absolutely charming. When Ella's friend drags her through a fairy gate for a party, she stumbles on a charming prince, a world of magic, and, most importantly to her, a plethora of beautiful gowns to inspire her portfolio so she can get into a fashion design school and escape her awful stepmother.
This story has all the familiar elements of the original(not the original-original, it's not so gruesome as to be cutting off feet), but it spins them in new, fresh ways that leaves us with a cozy, funny story.
My favorite parts: Kiyohime. 100%. I will love this book forever for the tiny Japanese dragon. She's adorable, mischievous, and absolutely hilarious.
Ella made for a relatable, sweet MC. Her struggle with anxiety was familiar without pulling the story down into dark places.
Tiernan was occasionally a dumb dumb, but I really loved seeing him falling in love with Ella against his will. And even when I was exasperated with his choices, he was still a very likable character.
The found family themes were great, as was the selfless goals of the MCs. I did think the political intrigue aspects were a bit on the simplistic side, but that's not necessarily a complaint: some people want complex intrigue stories, but that's not what this story is about. This is a story about finding your place, accepting yourself and others, and standing up for what you believe in. And it achieves those things in a cozy, funny, sweet, romantic plot and setting.
I received an ARC of this book, and I wrote this review completely willingly.
October 3, 2022
Oh, wow! I LOVED this Cinderella retelling! I have loved this entire series, but this one was particularly riveting!
This time, we get Ella's story (first introduced as a side character in The Rose Gate). Ella and Tiernan are a lovely pair, and I LOVED that this also has the found family/band of brothers trope with Tiernan's fianna.
This also had a fun baby dragon, dangerous fae politics, and Amber as the fairy godmother (which a little help from Miss Chloe) is the BEST!
This time, we get Ella's story (first introduced as a side character in The Rose Gate). Ella and Tiernan are a lovely pair, and I LOVED that this also has the found family/band of brothers trope with Tiernan's fianna.
This also had a fun baby dragon, dangerous fae politics, and Amber as the fairy godmother (which a little help from Miss Chloe) is the BEST!
December 15, 2023
I truly enjoyed this Cinderella retelling where we learn a bit more about the Faerie and its inhabitants, with a bit of politics and related drama, solid plot and great characters. Plus a tiny dragon!
April 7, 2025
This was the best book in the series so far! 🤩🤩🤩It was so cute, sweet and relatable! I love the chemistry between Ella and Tiernan! One of the best Cinderella I have ever read. 🧡🧡🧡
July 24, 2022
Rule number one. Don’t fall in love. I had thought it would be easy.
Oh my stars……Hanna has done it again! The Glass Gate has all the magic, wonder, and sweet romance I’ve come to love in the Faerie Tale Romance series. And can I just point out that this book had me chuckling in my bed way past midnight.
“I’ve already swallowed two bugs, had one fly up my nose, and had something bite my ear earlier. It was not a mosquito.”
I have always loved retellings and Hanna’s stories are some of my favorites!! She is a gifted writer and knows how to put a delightfully fun and unique twist on fairy tales. Her characters are so relatable and lovable. The humor, world building, and unlikely romance seals the deal for me!
My eyes adjusted to the night without the lantern. Above me, millions of stars came into focus, like someone had gathered and armload of sequins and thrown them across deep blue velvet.
If you’re looking for a modern day Cinderella retelling with magical worlds, found family, clean romance, and the cutest little dragon you’ll ever meet, you’ll love The Glass Gate. However, I highly recommend reading the other books in the series first as many characters have a small cameo in this book.
I had thought he had made my heart beat fast then, but as he laid his hand on my lower back and drew me close, I realized that I hadn’t known then what my heart could do.
Oh my stars……Hanna has done it again! The Glass Gate has all the magic, wonder, and sweet romance I’ve come to love in the Faerie Tale Romance series. And can I just point out that this book had me chuckling in my bed way past midnight.
“I’ve already swallowed two bugs, had one fly up my nose, and had something bite my ear earlier. It was not a mosquito.”
I have always loved retellings and Hanna’s stories are some of my favorites!! She is a gifted writer and knows how to put a delightfully fun and unique twist on fairy tales. Her characters are so relatable and lovable. The humor, world building, and unlikely romance seals the deal for me!
My eyes adjusted to the night without the lantern. Above me, millions of stars came into focus, like someone had gathered and armload of sequins and thrown them across deep blue velvet.
If you’re looking for a modern day Cinderella retelling with magical worlds, found family, clean romance, and the cutest little dragon you’ll ever meet, you’ll love The Glass Gate. However, I highly recommend reading the other books in the series first as many characters have a small cameo in this book.
I had thought he had made my heart beat fast then, but as he laid his hand on my lower back and drew me close, I realized that I hadn’t known then what my heart could do.
December 15, 2024
After reading all the previous books in the series I was really looking forward to this one. Cinderella might be one of my favorite fairytales and I was curious what the author would do with it. Just like all the previous books the author combines the well known core element of the original tale with some new and fresh content. I really loved the fake dating part in this story, which gave Ella and her prince the chance to get to know each other before falling in love. I also loved the politics, which led to a really awesome finale! I also loved how this Ella was still very much an Ella. She was kind, understanding and willing to take risks to make the world a better place. I can't wait for the next book in this series to be released in paperback!
June 22, 2022
I received a RAC- and I must say it was very enjoyable, I had taken a break from reading and this was a clean interesting story that got me going for more.
I loved the two persons POVs (could have done with more male lead POVs but was still good)
There were some areas that could of done with fleshing out a little more it felt a little choppy like it could have done with something smoothing the transition between scenes
I liked the Cinderella story- I love the trop used (fake boyfriend )
It was hard to pick favourite characters I honestly really loved all of them (I love a redheaded lead!)
I can't wait for more from this author her writing get better for each book.
I loved the two persons POVs (could have done with more male lead POVs but was still good)
There were some areas that could of done with fleshing out a little more it felt a little choppy like it could have done with something smoothing the transition between scenes
I liked the Cinderella story- I love the trop used (fake boyfriend )
It was hard to pick favourite characters I honestly really loved all of them (I love a redheaded lead!)
I can't wait for more from this author her writing get better for each book.
June 20, 2022
*I read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book*
Loved this book! It was a Cinderella retelling where the prince and "Cinderella" got to know each other before the ball, but still had all the classic elements: fairy godmother, evil stepfamily, glass slippers, and a magic outfit that fell apart at midnight. I have really enjoyed this series of faire tale romances and this book did not disappoint. It was nice to get cameos from the previous couples. I really appreciated the depiction of anxiety and insomnia in this book as a sufferer myself.
Loved this book! It was a Cinderella retelling where the prince and "Cinderella" got to know each other before the ball, but still had all the classic elements: fairy godmother, evil stepfamily, glass slippers, and a magic outfit that fell apart at midnight. I have really enjoyed this series of faire tale romances and this book did not disappoint. It was nice to get cameos from the previous couples. I really appreciated the depiction of anxiety and insomnia in this book as a sufferer myself.
June 21, 2022
This book made me cry more than once. I love watching this author grow and really blossom with the continuing story arc. The threads of found family, and talking about mental health hit really close for me. The continued world building and character development are excellent. I’m am so very glad this author and this book found its way to me just when I needed it. Thank you Hanna for your stories!
May 27, 2024
This book lost its way a bit in the middle, bit redeemed itself by the end.
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I really enjoyed a Cinderella story where the prince and Cinderella actually get to know each other outside of their meeting at a ball.
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The fairy elements in this were fun.
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And there's an adorable dragon.
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An enjoyable tale all around.
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I really enjoyed a Cinderella story where the prince and Cinderella actually get to know each other outside of their meeting at a ball.
.
The fairy elements in this were fun.
.
And there's an adorable dragon.
.
An enjoyable tale all around.
June 18, 2022
The Glass Gate was my first Fae Fiction read—a totally new genre for me! My teen daughter has been raving about Hanna Sandvig's books, so when I had the chance to pre-read her latest, I decided to try it out.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but I found myself completely caught up in this tale that blends our country with the Faerie world—much in the same way that our heroine, Ella, was swept into Faerie with few expectations and surprising enjoyment.
The Glass Gate can be read as a stand-alone, but beware, you'll want to read more of the series to find out what happens in the Seelie kingdom in Tír na nÓg.
I wasn't sure what to expect, but I found myself completely caught up in this tale that blends our country with the Faerie world—much in the same way that our heroine, Ella, was swept into Faerie with few expectations and surprising enjoyment.
The Glass Gate can be read as a stand-alone, but beware, you'll want to read more of the series to find out what happens in the Seelie kingdom in Tír na nÓg.
June 25, 2022
Love fairy tales! And the way Hanna writes transports you directly in this wonderful world 💖
The Glass Gate is another beautiful retelling, this time of Cinderella. Loved hers & Tiernan's story, and the way modern and fairytale worlds were mixed together.
The Glass Gate is another beautiful retelling, this time of Cinderella. Loved hers & Tiernan's story, and the way modern and fairytale worlds were mixed together.
June 20, 2022
I acted as a typo hunter for this new release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hanna has done it again! I love her books with creative twists to fairy tale re-tellings, and this one hits the mark too! Her plots are fun, the dialogue is snappy, and the relationships are relatable (some healthy and some unhealthy).
If you enjoy clean, sweet re-rellings, this one is for you!
Hanna has done it again! I love her books with creative twists to fairy tale re-tellings, and this one hits the mark too! Her plots are fun, the dialogue is snappy, and the relationships are relatable (some healthy and some unhealthy).
If you enjoy clean, sweet re-rellings, this one is for you!
October 13, 2023
1: This is the best Cinderella retelling ever, change my mind.
2: I need a ryū dragon now. Pretty please!
3: I might write a full review, though I pretty busy right now. =)
2: I need a ryū dragon now. Pretty please!
3: I might write a full review, though I pretty busy right now. =)
March 30, 2024
I loved this book so so much. It’s such a perfect cozy fantasy! Very well written, loved the character development, and the illustrations were phenomenal. Definitely give this book a read!
June 18, 2022
Such a sweet retelling of Cinderella! Another really wonderful story by Hanna Sandvig.
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