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The Skazka Fairy Tales #2
The Golden Slipper
A girl with a dream. A prince without magic. A masquerade ball that changes their lives forever.
Miraslava has spent her life dreaming of freedom from her family and servitude. Her cruel step mother and step sisters have done everything in their power to make Mira’s existence unbearable. But Mira is a planner. She’s been taking odd jobs around town, saving up for a portal passage to the human realm—the one place her family can’t reach her. When the royal family announces a week-long celebration—with a ball every other night—her friend offers her a job that lands her in the castle. And right into the arms of the crowned prince of Skazka. Luca isn’t exactly what Mira has pictured, with his mischievous eyes and a kind smile, keeping his own secrets. She knows she has no time to dream about unattainable boys, but the more time they spend together, the harder it is to remember to stay away. But fate—and magic—have other plans. A little makeover, a dance beneath the Skazka stars, and a giant turquoise cat throw Mira down a path she never could’ve imagined. With her cruel family watching her every move, and a gorgeous prince trying to steal her heart, is it any surprise Mira loses a shoe? And when the clock strikes midnight, Mira might lose more than that—she might lose her heart.
The Golden Slipper is a retelling of the traditional Russian Cinderella fairytale. Set in the world of Skazka, this complete stand-alone novel is full of slow-burn romance, banter, strong friendships, and heart!
Miraslava has spent her life dreaming of freedom from her family and servitude. Her cruel step mother and step sisters have done everything in their power to make Mira’s existence unbearable. But Mira is a planner. She’s been taking odd jobs around town, saving up for a portal passage to the human realm—the one place her family can’t reach her. When the royal family announces a week-long celebration—with a ball every other night—her friend offers her a job that lands her in the castle. And right into the arms of the crowned prince of Skazka. Luca isn’t exactly what Mira has pictured, with his mischievous eyes and a kind smile, keeping his own secrets. She knows she has no time to dream about unattainable boys, but the more time they spend together, the harder it is to remember to stay away. But fate—and magic—have other plans. A little makeover, a dance beneath the Skazka stars, and a giant turquoise cat throw Mira down a path she never could’ve imagined. With her cruel family watching her every move, and a gorgeous prince trying to steal her heart, is it any surprise Mira loses a shoe? And when the clock strikes midnight, Mira might lose more than that—she might lose her heart.
The Golden Slipper is a retelling of the traditional Russian Cinderella fairytale. Set in the world of Skazka, this complete stand-alone novel is full of slow-burn romance, banter, strong friendships, and heart!
458 pages, Paperback
Published September 27, 2022
138 people are currently reading
4794 people want to read
About the author
Valia Lind
65 books450 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author. Photographer. Artist. Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Russia, Valia Lind has always had a love for the written word. She wrote her first published book on the bathroom floor of her dormitory, while procrastinating to study for her college classes. Upon graduation, she has moved her writing to more respectable places, and has found her voice in Young Adult fiction.
In 2015, her YA thriller, Pieces of Revenge, was the recipient of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award.
You can visit her online at http://valialind.com or follow her on Instagram, where she spends way too much time, @ValiaLind.
For a free book, sign up for her newsletter --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/f0t1xi1qmr
In 2015, her YA thriller, Pieces of Revenge, was the recipient of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award.
You can visit her online at http://valialind.com or follow her on Instagram, where she spends way too much time, @ValiaLind.
For a free book, sign up for her newsletter --> https://dl.bookfunnel.com/f0t1xi1qmr
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 1, 2022
I received a free ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I really found this interpretation of the fairy tale Cinderella fascinating. The author applies a Russian feel to it and influence which really helps give it a unique flavor. Given the fairy tale has origins in lots of different countries, it was great fun to see one based in Russia.
The characters are some of the best parts of this book. Each one is unique and I loved that our main character has her own friends and has actively been working to improve her life from behind closed doors. She has drive and motivation.
The world… a creative mix of magic and mortal… makes for a reading experience you will have a hard time duplicating. Definitely add it to your TBR.
I really found this interpretation of the fairy tale Cinderella fascinating. The author applies a Russian feel to it and influence which really helps give it a unique flavor. Given the fairy tale has origins in lots of different countries, it was great fun to see one based in Russia.
The characters are some of the best parts of this book. Each one is unique and I loved that our main character has her own friends and has actively been working to improve her life from behind closed doors. She has drive and motivation.
The world… a creative mix of magic and mortal… makes for a reading experience you will have a hard time duplicating. Definitely add it to your TBR.
July 27, 2023
This book was fun! The romance was so adorable! I haven't read a fantasy retelling in a while so this was perfect!
August 10, 2024
Such a cute, cozy fairytale!
June 6, 2025
One of my favorite things about Valia Lind is how well she develops romance in her fairy tale books. The Skazka Fairy Tales take place in a unique fantasy world built on Russian folklore that's split between the magical realm and the human realm. The Golden Slipper is a "Cinderella" retelling from this series that provides a slow-burn romance where a prince and a hard-working peasant girl fall in love over time. It does a great job of providing both perspectives and building them into realistic, fleshed-out characters. There are also a lot of great supporting characters that give the protagonist someone to turn to when she feels overwhelmed by her stepfamily. The story is brimming with magic and romance.
Mira is a hard worker who is skilled in many areas. She runs a flower shop and also helps her best friend, Oksana, with her bakery. Her least favorite duty is tending to her stepmother and stepsisters, who seem to be out to get her. When a clumsy young man shows up disturbing her flowers, it only makes her already difficult life even harder. Oksana helps Mira get a job at the palace to prepare for the upcoming season of balls, and Mira learns the clumsy man she insulted is none other than Prince Luca. Fortunately for her, Luca is enamored by Mira and how she doesn't treat him differently due to his royal status. When Mira's friends notice that a romance could be blossoming, they begin scheming to get her to the upcoming royal ball.
In this version of the story, Mira has several fairy godmothers helping her sneak into the ball. Her supportive friends root for her as they help her acquire the perfect gown. She received a pair of enchanted golden slippers that make her unrecognizable when she wears them, a common theme in "Cinderella" retellings. Since Luca is already in love with Mira, the magic creates an existential crisis for him because he has a hard time accepting that the mysterious princess from the ball is a different person from the prickly peasant girl who likes to speak her mind. However, this problem is easily resolved.
The final portion of the book brings back the Baba Yaga lore that is an ongoing theme in this Russian-inspired fantasy world. It creates a thrilling climax for an otherwise cozy read, but there is very little buildup to it. The burst of excitement at the end gives the book just the right push to reach a satisfying conclusion. There was also some great worldbuilding throughout the story where characters reference the human realm, showing that our world is a real place in the Skazka universe. Luca struggles with not having magic like his mother, adding depth to his personality. While Mira fits the "Cinderella" archetype, there is more to her than a mere abuse victim. She has friends and hobbies and feels like a real person.
The Golden Slipper by Valia Lind is a charming retelling of "Cinderella" that shines with its well-developed romance, relatable characters, and rich worldbuilding. The slow-burn romance between Mira and Prince Luca is a highlight, and the supporting cast adds depth and warmth to the story. While the climax feels somewhat abrupt, the book's cozy tone and satisfying conclusion make it a delightful read. Lind's unique blend of Russian folklore and fairy tale elements creates a rich and enchanting world that's worth exploring further in the Skazka series. If you're a fan of fairy tale retellings with a touch of magic and romance, The Golden Slipper is a must-read.
Mira is a hard worker who is skilled in many areas. She runs a flower shop and also helps her best friend, Oksana, with her bakery. Her least favorite duty is tending to her stepmother and stepsisters, who seem to be out to get her. When a clumsy young man shows up disturbing her flowers, it only makes her already difficult life even harder. Oksana helps Mira get a job at the palace to prepare for the upcoming season of balls, and Mira learns the clumsy man she insulted is none other than Prince Luca. Fortunately for her, Luca is enamored by Mira and how she doesn't treat him differently due to his royal status. When Mira's friends notice that a romance could be blossoming, they begin scheming to get her to the upcoming royal ball.
In this version of the story, Mira has several fairy godmothers helping her sneak into the ball. Her supportive friends root for her as they help her acquire the perfect gown. She received a pair of enchanted golden slippers that make her unrecognizable when she wears them, a common theme in "Cinderella" retellings. Since Luca is already in love with Mira, the magic creates an existential crisis for him because he has a hard time accepting that the mysterious princess from the ball is a different person from the prickly peasant girl who likes to speak her mind. However, this problem is easily resolved.
The final portion of the book brings back the Baba Yaga lore that is an ongoing theme in this Russian-inspired fantasy world. It creates a thrilling climax for an otherwise cozy read, but there is very little buildup to it. The burst of excitement at the end gives the book just the right push to reach a satisfying conclusion. There was also some great worldbuilding throughout the story where characters reference the human realm, showing that our world is a real place in the Skazka universe. Luca struggles with not having magic like his mother, adding depth to his personality. While Mira fits the "Cinderella" archetype, there is more to her than a mere abuse victim. She has friends and hobbies and feels like a real person.
The Golden Slipper by Valia Lind is a charming retelling of "Cinderella" that shines with its well-developed romance, relatable characters, and rich worldbuilding. The slow-burn romance between Mira and Prince Luca is a highlight, and the supporting cast adds depth and warmth to the story. While the climax feels somewhat abrupt, the book's cozy tone and satisfying conclusion make it a delightful read. Lind's unique blend of Russian folklore and fairy tale elements creates a rich and enchanting world that's worth exploring further in the Skazka series. If you're a fan of fairy tale retellings with a touch of magic and romance, The Golden Slipper is a must-read.
September 25, 2022
Skazka is a land of magic where fairytales and human technology blend. The Golden Slipper is the second book in the Skazka Fairy Tales series. This is Valia's retelling of Cinderella but with a Russian flare.
The story is told from Mira's and Luca's perspectives. Mira's life mirrors the Cinderella story, a servant to her stepmother and sisters who goes to a ball and meets the prince but Mira is more than that. She has such a good heart, she is kind, caring, and loyal. She loves nature, dances wonderfully, and sees the beauty in simple things. However due to the abusive nature of her stepmother Mira has toned herself down, doing anything she can to survive but her spirit hasn't been broken, she's sassy and strong-willed underneath it all and that is what Luca is attracted to even if she can be a bit prickly and hard-headed at times.
Omg, Luca is adorable! Seriously whenever someone thinks fairytale prince it's him they are envisioning. Luca is down-to-earth, kind, and caring. He doesn't see his status as anything but a way to serve his kingdom. He physically helps his people when needed, he has his ears open willing to help, and is such a loving son, he had great parents. Luca is all the good things even with all that's on his shoulders. He deserves to be protected, he deserves everything, I love him that much.
Luca and Mira have the perfect meet-cute constantly running into each other, an instant connection, not just looks but personality. They were drawn to each other and couldn't stay away even when they tried to reason themselves out of it. They were so cute if not frustrating.
Best part about this series is that it's connected to some of Valia's previous books. Not only do readers get to see the familiar faces of Nikita and Gravil from the first book in this series, The Scarlet Rose, but this story focuses on Luca of Zelenovo Korolevstva, Calista's from the Skazka Chronicles son. While I haven't read that series (yet) I did read the Scarlet Rose and the Golden Slipper fits right in. This story is just as enchanting as the first book, hints of a well know fairytale but with a Baba Yaga twist, it was fantastic, I love the Baba Yaga tale and have come across it a few times. One of my favorite parts was that her friend was a baker and Mira assisted so food was incorporated well into the story. The addition of Russian culture, hints of magic, and magical creatures all add to the whimsy of the story.
The Golden Slipper was a wonderfully unique Cinderella retelling with just enough hints of the original tale to warm my heart but enough of a twist to keep the story fresh and new. The story had great characters, wonderful female friendships, a great supportive team, and loving parents. Not to mention the bakery, festivals, pretty gardens, bazaars, masquerades, and magical forests all make for a fantastical backdrop. Everything came together to create a magical fairytale. There are a few more Kingdoms in Skazka to visit and I can't wait to see what fairytales Valia tackles. Up next Valia takes on the Snow White fairytale in The Poisoned Princess.
The story is told from Mira's and Luca's perspectives. Mira's life mirrors the Cinderella story, a servant to her stepmother and sisters who goes to a ball and meets the prince but Mira is more than that. She has such a good heart, she is kind, caring, and loyal. She loves nature, dances wonderfully, and sees the beauty in simple things. However due to the abusive nature of her stepmother Mira has toned herself down, doing anything she can to survive but her spirit hasn't been broken, she's sassy and strong-willed underneath it all and that is what Luca is attracted to even if she can be a bit prickly and hard-headed at times.
Omg, Luca is adorable! Seriously whenever someone thinks fairytale prince it's him they are envisioning. Luca is down-to-earth, kind, and caring. He doesn't see his status as anything but a way to serve his kingdom. He physically helps his people when needed, he has his ears open willing to help, and is such a loving son, he had great parents. Luca is all the good things even with all that's on his shoulders. He deserves to be protected, he deserves everything, I love him that much.
Luca and Mira have the perfect meet-cute constantly running into each other, an instant connection, not just looks but personality. They were drawn to each other and couldn't stay away even when they tried to reason themselves out of it. They were so cute if not frustrating.
Best part about this series is that it's connected to some of Valia's previous books. Not only do readers get to see the familiar faces of Nikita and Gravil from the first book in this series, The Scarlet Rose, but this story focuses on Luca of Zelenovo Korolevstva, Calista's from the Skazka Chronicles son. While I haven't read that series (yet) I did read the Scarlet Rose and the Golden Slipper fits right in. This story is just as enchanting as the first book, hints of a well know fairytale but with a Baba Yaga twist, it was fantastic, I love the Baba Yaga tale and have come across it a few times. One of my favorite parts was that her friend was a baker and Mira assisted so food was incorporated well into the story. The addition of Russian culture, hints of magic, and magical creatures all add to the whimsy of the story.
The Golden Slipper was a wonderfully unique Cinderella retelling with just enough hints of the original tale to warm my heart but enough of a twist to keep the story fresh and new. The story had great characters, wonderful female friendships, a great supportive team, and loving parents. Not to mention the bakery, festivals, pretty gardens, bazaars, masquerades, and magical forests all make for a fantastical backdrop. Everything came together to create a magical fairytale. There are a few more Kingdoms in Skazka to visit and I can't wait to see what fairytales Valia tackles. Up next Valia takes on the Snow White fairytale in The Poisoned Princess.
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October 1, 2022OUT NOW!!!!! Start reading here --> https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Slipper...
This book has my WHOLE heart. I am so excited to share Mira & Luca's story with you all! The dual POV was so much fun to write, and this world is everything and I'm so thrilled it's now available for everyone to read!
This book has my WHOLE heart. I am so excited to share Mira & Luca's story with you all! The dual POV was so much fun to write, and this world is everything and I'm so thrilled it's now available for everyone to read!
November 13, 2023
I loved the idea of this book but the writing was too unnatural for me. The way the characters talked out loud and in their thoughts was just too stiff and unrealistic. I was only about to get about 10 chapters in before I had to call it quits.
August 2, 2023
I didn't expect to enjoy this book all the way to the end. As a Cinderella ethusiast, I have my fair share of Cinderella stories and retellings. So when you already know what to expect, sometimes it takes the fun and enjoyment away, and that's what I've been feeling for the few last Cinderella retellings.
However, this book is really a breath of fresh air! Never knew I needed the Sunshine prince/ Grumpy Cinderella combination until this! Luca is hands down best boy, best prince! Where can I find my own Luca heeellllooo???!!! I love Mira as Cinderella a lot too! She stays true to her words unlike other heroines or Cinderellas that I've come across which is just a copy paste of one another. Mira is my favourite Cinderella (beside the og Cinderella ofc!) by far!
The magical Russian premise is fun too! It's a bit like Alice in Wonderland. Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland oh! Such a good combination. Kot-Bayun tug on my cat owner instinct. I can't help but squeeeelll out of cuteness overload whenever Luca is with Kot-Bayun. Mira and Luca's dynamic is just chefs kiss! The chemistry between them is insane. And it requires no excessive touchy touchy, smutty smutty actions. Their little gestures are enough to make me squeeeeel like a madman.
I enjoyed this very much. I don't feel annoted at the characters, the world building is good, and the ending of course is to be expected as it IS a Cinderella story after all. However, there's always something new, some added elements that makes the story so much fun to read.
However, this book is really a breath of fresh air! Never knew I needed the Sunshine prince/ Grumpy Cinderella combination until this! Luca is hands down best boy, best prince! Where can I find my own Luca heeellllooo???!!! I love Mira as Cinderella a lot too! She stays true to her words unlike other heroines or Cinderellas that I've come across which is just a copy paste of one another. Mira is my favourite Cinderella (beside the og Cinderella ofc!) by far!
The magical Russian premise is fun too! It's a bit like Alice in Wonderland. Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland oh! Such a good combination. Kot-Bayun tug on my cat owner instinct. I can't help but squeeeelll out of cuteness overload whenever Luca is with Kot-Bayun. Mira and Luca's dynamic is just chefs kiss! The chemistry between them is insane. And it requires no excessive touchy touchy, smutty smutty actions. Their little gestures are enough to make me squeeeeel like a madman.
I enjoyed this very much. I don't feel annoted at the characters, the world building is good, and the ending of course is to be expected as it IS a Cinderella story after all. However, there's always something new, some added elements that makes the story so much fun to read.
January 6, 2023
for me
This book was really good in the beginning. Then near the end it fell a little flat. It was a four star book for me but then the evil witch storyline went from zero to sixty. Like I thought the girl was dreaming because it was all happening too quick and didn’t really make sense but nope. I think the evil witch storyline should have been more drawn out. Like there was such great buildup but then it was a let down. It was so rushed and didn’t seem really thought out. It ruined the book a little for me. Everything else in the the book was perfect. I love the push and pull and banter. I truly wish the rest wasn’t rush. It seem like the end part of the book was written by a different person. It went so rushed and not thought out. Really sad. Overall it was good until the end. I say it balances out to a average rating. I’m truly so sad it was rushed. I wouldn’t say it’s a retelling per say but like inspired or heavily inspired. 3/5
This book was really good in the beginning. Then near the end it fell a little flat. It was a four star book for me but then the evil witch storyline went from zero to sixty. Like I thought the girl was dreaming because it was all happening too quick and didn’t really make sense but nope. I think the evil witch storyline should have been more drawn out. Like there was such great buildup but then it was a let down. It was so rushed and didn’t seem really thought out. It ruined the book a little for me. Everything else in the the book was perfect. I love the push and pull and banter. I truly wish the rest wasn’t rush. It seem like the end part of the book was written by a different person. It went so rushed and not thought out. Really sad. Overall it was good until the end. I say it balances out to a average rating. I’m truly so sad it was rushed. I wouldn’t say it’s a retelling per say but like inspired or heavily inspired. 3/5
August 23, 2023
Cute with pacing problems
Overall this was a lovely retelling of a classic fairy tale. I loved the dynamic between Mira and Luca, always fun to see a smitten clumsy prince falling for a sharp FMC. My main issue was the underlying plot of Baba Yaga’s return felt like an afterthought and then hastily added into the end. Overall cute love story, no regrets reading it, just wish the end and subplot had been better executed.
BookTok told me to check this book out. No smut, slow-ish burn, if you know Cinderella you know the triggers in this story.
Overall this was a lovely retelling of a classic fairy tale. I loved the dynamic between Mira and Luca, always fun to see a smitten clumsy prince falling for a sharp FMC. My main issue was the underlying plot of Baba Yaga’s return felt like an afterthought and then hastily added into the end. Overall cute love story, no regrets reading it, just wish the end and subplot had been better executed.
BookTok told me to check this book out. No smut, slow-ish burn, if you know Cinderella you know the triggers in this story.
November 9, 2023
Baking and Flowers
Mira has a plan and it doesnt include a clumsy prince who keeps running into her. When her best friend gets a job baking for the palace, she brings Mira with her to help. The money will give Mira the ability to escape her evil stepfamily. For two weeks she works herself to the bone, never able to get the prince off her mind. And the same for him. Magical shoes help her hide during the balls but the prince knows there is something about the girl. When things come to a head, they must learn to trust each other and the power of true love.
Mira has a plan and it doesnt include a clumsy prince who keeps running into her. When her best friend gets a job baking for the palace, she brings Mira with her to help. The money will give Mira the ability to escape her evil stepfamily. For two weeks she works herself to the bone, never able to get the prince off her mind. And the same for him. Magical shoes help her hide during the balls but the prince knows there is something about the girl. When things come to a head, they must learn to trust each other and the power of true love.
January 1, 2024
I absolutely adored this Cinderella retelling of the Skaska Fairy Chronicles. I picked it up on a chance and what a hidden gem I discovered. I so appreciate the clean, wholesome, and inspiring romance that was still swoon-worthy and full of depth and detail.
Things I loved about this story:
- wrong side of the tracks romance
- Luca — sweet, precious Luca! I adored their romance.
- giant magical cat anyone?!
- representation for abusive past
- such an interesting mix of Russian culture and fantasy!
More detailed review to come.
Things I loved about this story:
- wrong side of the tracks romance
- Luca — sweet, precious Luca! I adored their romance.
- giant magical cat anyone?!
- representation for abusive past
- such an interesting mix of Russian culture and fantasy!
More detailed review to come.
October 7, 2022
Love it!
This is a fabulous series! I love the mix of fairytale re-tellings with Russian folk tales.
Although this story could trigger anyone who has experienced abuse, Cinderella itself is a story of a girl who overcomes an abusive family situation. Valia does a superb job of balancing out the darkness of abuse with a hope for the future, and the necessity of having others walk alongside you through it all. A superb read!
This is a fabulous series! I love the mix of fairytale re-tellings with Russian folk tales.
Although this story could trigger anyone who has experienced abuse, Cinderella itself is a story of a girl who overcomes an abusive family situation. Valia does a superb job of balancing out the darkness of abuse with a hope for the future, and the necessity of having others walk alongside you through it all. A superb read!
December 23, 2024
Loved this Slavic variation of Cinderella!
This is the first book I’ve read in the Skazka chronicles and I’m definitely going to be delving into the rest - loved it! Mira was a sneaky Ella, Luca was a broody cinnamon roll, the real Fairy Godmother was a baker (whose 2 daughters were Mira’s real sisters), even though there was a thing about a fae blessing that came with the shoes and the stepmother was the usual nasty kind. I loved that the shoes came with a distortion charm, although the author kept me guessing if it was real or not - I mean - the girl could have just cleaned up nice and believed there was a charm while it was the dress and mask and completely different surroundings that acted as a charm. Nobody abolished the placebo effect, you know. While I don’t necessarily agree on vilifying Baba Yaga, in traditional Russian fairytales she has been the villain and there needs to be a fight of good vs evil, so I can live with it. Could not put this fairytale retelling down - great pace, a,azing world building, and ofc HEA. Will definitely keep an eye out for the others.
Recommended for lovers of sweet but angsty YA retellings, especially with Slavic myths mixed in.
This is the first book I’ve read in the Skazka chronicles and I’m definitely going to be delving into the rest - loved it! Mira was a sneaky Ella, Luca was a broody cinnamon roll, the real Fairy Godmother was a baker (whose 2 daughters were Mira’s real sisters), even though there was a thing about a fae blessing that came with the shoes and the stepmother was the usual nasty kind. I loved that the shoes came with a distortion charm, although the author kept me guessing if it was real or not - I mean - the girl could have just cleaned up nice and believed there was a charm while it was the dress and mask and completely different surroundings that acted as a charm. Nobody abolished the placebo effect, you know. While I don’t necessarily agree on vilifying Baba Yaga, in traditional Russian fairytales she has been the villain and there needs to be a fight of good vs evil, so I can live with it. Could not put this fairytale retelling down - great pace, a,azing world building, and ofc HEA. Will definitely keep an eye out for the others.
Recommended for lovers of sweet but angsty YA retellings, especially with Slavic myths mixed in.
October 5, 2022
a great read
I have always had a thing for Cinderella retelling and this was amazing. I loved both main characters very much and I enjoyed catching up with characters from previous books by this author. The writing is fantastic and has good pace. I like that the prince isn’t perfect and that both characters need to grow.
I have always had a thing for Cinderella retelling and this was amazing. I loved both main characters very much and I enjoyed catching up with characters from previous books by this author. The writing is fantastic and has good pace. I like that the prince isn’t perfect and that both characters need to grow.
March 28, 2023
This gave me a ever after Cinderella story vibe, in the way the MC talked and interacted with each other. Which I absolutely love! And then adding the spin with the Russian fairytales element mixed in made it even better. I love a good te-telling especially when they bring in elements from stories and fairytales of cultures that aren’t mainstreamed via companies like Disney.
November 11, 2025
This was such a sweet Cinderella retelling with Russian influences. Sadly, I didn't understand all the Russian words, but the story was wonderful. The underlying mystery of Baba Yaga kept a sense of intrigue. I loved watching Mira and Luca develop in their relationship and in working through their own struggles.
September 5, 2023
The book was entirely too long. There were a few phrases and situations that felt really repetitive. The Russian phrases were a bit distracting too even though it was easy to tell what characters were saying.
September 5, 2023
😍☺️❤️
Oh my goodness- love! I’m a huge fan of cultural retelling and this one was beautifully crafted! The characters and story blended so smoothly, the people worrying through their stuff and falling hopelessly/hopefully in love?!?!? Yes yes yes.
Oh my goodness- love! I’m a huge fan of cultural retelling and this one was beautifully crafted! The characters and story blended so smoothly, the people worrying through their stuff and falling hopelessly/hopefully in love?!?!? Yes yes yes.
December 9, 2023
dry
static n stoic the writing has promise but falls into the woebegone cinders story.
My least favourite thing to read is a put upon heroine!
Rescue yourself !
anyway, it was very average. dnf
static n stoic the writing has promise but falls into the woebegone cinders story.
My least favourite thing to read is a put upon heroine!
Rescue yourself !
anyway, it was very average. dnf
December 25, 2023
By far the best Cinderella retelling I've ever read. Absolutely loved the main characters, and the twists that the author gave to the usual Cinderella story. Especially the magic woven in the book... Absolutely loved it.
February 22, 2024
I read it in one sitting. It's inspired by the classical fairy tale Cinderella.
It's a fairy tale for our old souls.
Mira's story mirrors the Cinderalla story. It's a cute romance, and I recommend you to read it when you want to enter in another fantasy realm.
It's a fairy tale for our old souls.
Mira's story mirrors the Cinderalla story. It's a cute romance, and I recommend you to read it when you want to enter in another fantasy realm.
October 24, 2025
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I absolutely loved this retelling of Cinderella! I am really looking forward to reading the next book in this really wonderful series!
October 9, 2022
Beautifully written!
Valia is a phenomenal writer. All of her stories pull me into these magical places and I don’t want to leave. The Golden Slipper was a beautiful twist of the classic Cinderella. Luca is the ideal Prince Charming; handsome, hardworking, lovable, and adorable. Mira is the Cinderella we are all cheering for, if anyone deserves love and royalty, it’s her. I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed every moment of this book!
Valia is a phenomenal writer. All of her stories pull me into these magical places and I don’t want to leave. The Golden Slipper was a beautiful twist of the classic Cinderella. Luca is the ideal Prince Charming; handsome, hardworking, lovable, and adorable. Mira is the Cinderella we are all cheering for, if anyone deserves love and royalty, it’s her. I laughed, I cried, and I enjoyed every moment of this book!
October 12, 2022
Too short. No depth of characters. Not authors beat as i enjoyed book 1 of series.
October 30, 2022
As always I love dual POV. Author nailed it with this one. I am excited to read the rest of this series!
June 12, 2023
suuuuper underrated i think the story is interesting from the beginning i didn’t see the chemistry between the two characters at first but i quickly grew to love them NEEDS MORE HYPE fr
August 15, 2023
3.25 — THE POWER OF LOVE STRIKES AGAIN
December 9, 2023
No plot, like none
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