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Once Upon a Bite
Fifteen tales tinged with darkness, where vampires and werewolves roam and familiar fairytales take on overtones of blood and vengeance. (Note: Some of these stories are not suitable for sensitive readers.)
The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild - Phaedra Weldon
Joining the Blue Fairy Hunters Guild is just the first step in finding the Nightshade who made him a Puppet all those centuries ago. Revenge is the goal, but lies and truths revealed show his past has a very different tale.
Silvereyes and the Three Wolves - Nikki Jefford
Werewolf reporter Justin Slinger covers the dramatic court trial of Kingdom v. Silvereyes. Will the vampire Ada Silvereyes be found guilty of first-degree burglary and property damage?
River Daughter - Annie Bellet
The tale of a woman who is the last in a long line of magical women, and the lengths a mother will go to not only to protect her child, but also her legacy.
The Girl Who Cried Vamp - Christine Pope
Hedgewitch Selena Marx is usually ready to believe six impossible things before breakfast. But even her credulity is strained when the new kid in town is full of strange stories, each one wilder than the next.
The Ugly Daughter - Donna Augustine
The Ugly Daughter follows a scarred and ridiculed girl named Winni. All she dreams of is a future where she’s accepted, but her true destiny is more than she could’ve imagined.
Spider to the Fly - Kate Danley
"'Will you walk into my parlour?' said the Spider to the Fly." The famous poem by Mary Howett gets a lush retelling by USA Today bestselling author Kate Danley. Except there's vampires.
Princess of Salt - Anthea Sharp
A daughter is cast out, but can she win her way back to forgiveness through the simple art of cooking?
The Huntress - Sara C. Roethle
When an old woman is killed, a vampire hunter is sent to find the killer. Only she isn’t hunting vampires. No, the lone vampire around wants a lot more from her than blood.
Yelf Reviews for Jaqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe - Kay McSpadden
Everyone’s a critic, especially on social media, and especially in Fairy Tale Land. Even Jacqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe lives for good Yelf reviews!
Marusia and the Monster - Jamie Ferguson
Kara never stays too long in any one place, and never allows anyone to get too close to her. It’s just too risky—she never knows ahead of time what the monster inside of her might make her do. But Kara didn’t expect to fall in love…
Twisted Cinderella - Julia Crane
Cinderella has had it with being pushed around. Instead of taking the high road, Cinderella embraces the darkness in this twisted tale.
Faefrost - Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
When her best friend is taken by a woman the wild animals call the Frost Witch, Tegan of Eile will stop at nothing to get him back.
Cat in Combat Boots - C. Gockel
Tenryu has two big problems. The solution is very small.
Blood and Water - Alethea Kontis
A faithful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid,” only she’s a vampire. And there are pirates.
Breadcrumbs - Sarra Cannon
Despite trying to create a new life for herself after the disappearance of her brother, Gretel is pulled back into the dark world of vampire hunting when she catches sight of the man who first lured them into the woods as children.
Read more fabulous fairytale retellings from these authors - available in print and digital at all online retailers!
ONCE UPON A CURSE - 17 Dark Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A KISS - 17 Romantic Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A QUEST - 15 Tales of Adventure
ONCE UPON A STAR - 14 SF-Inspired Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A GHOST - 20 Eerie Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A WISH - 17 Dreamy Faerie Tales
The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild - Phaedra Weldon
Joining the Blue Fairy Hunters Guild is just the first step in finding the Nightshade who made him a Puppet all those centuries ago. Revenge is the goal, but lies and truths revealed show his past has a very different tale.
Silvereyes and the Three Wolves - Nikki Jefford
Werewolf reporter Justin Slinger covers the dramatic court trial of Kingdom v. Silvereyes. Will the vampire Ada Silvereyes be found guilty of first-degree burglary and property damage?
River Daughter - Annie Bellet
The tale of a woman who is the last in a long line of magical women, and the lengths a mother will go to not only to protect her child, but also her legacy.
The Girl Who Cried Vamp - Christine Pope
Hedgewitch Selena Marx is usually ready to believe six impossible things before breakfast. But even her credulity is strained when the new kid in town is full of strange stories, each one wilder than the next.
The Ugly Daughter - Donna Augustine
The Ugly Daughter follows a scarred and ridiculed girl named Winni. All she dreams of is a future where she’s accepted, but her true destiny is more than she could’ve imagined.
Spider to the Fly - Kate Danley
"'Will you walk into my parlour?' said the Spider to the Fly." The famous poem by Mary Howett gets a lush retelling by USA Today bestselling author Kate Danley. Except there's vampires.
Princess of Salt - Anthea Sharp
A daughter is cast out, but can she win her way back to forgiveness through the simple art of cooking?
The Huntress - Sara C. Roethle
When an old woman is killed, a vampire hunter is sent to find the killer. Only she isn’t hunting vampires. No, the lone vampire around wants a lot more from her than blood.
Yelf Reviews for Jaqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe - Kay McSpadden
Everyone’s a critic, especially on social media, and especially in Fairy Tale Land. Even Jacqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe lives for good Yelf reviews!
Marusia and the Monster - Jamie Ferguson
Kara never stays too long in any one place, and never allows anyone to get too close to her. It’s just too risky—she never knows ahead of time what the monster inside of her might make her do. But Kara didn’t expect to fall in love…
Twisted Cinderella - Julia Crane
Cinderella has had it with being pushed around. Instead of taking the high road, Cinderella embraces the darkness in this twisted tale.
Faefrost - Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
When her best friend is taken by a woman the wild animals call the Frost Witch, Tegan of Eile will stop at nothing to get him back.
Cat in Combat Boots - C. Gockel
Tenryu has two big problems. The solution is very small.
Blood and Water - Alethea Kontis
A faithful retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Little Mermaid,” only she’s a vampire. And there are pirates.
Breadcrumbs - Sarra Cannon
Despite trying to create a new life for herself after the disappearance of her brother, Gretel is pulled back into the dark world of vampire hunting when she catches sight of the man who first lured them into the woods as children.
Read more fabulous fairytale retellings from these authors - available in print and digital at all online retailers!
ONCE UPON A CURSE - 17 Dark Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A KISS - 17 Romantic Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A QUEST - 15 Tales of Adventure
ONCE UPON A STAR - 14 SF-Inspired Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A GHOST - 20 Eerie Faerie Tales
ONCE UPON A WISH - 17 Dreamy Faerie Tales
370 pages, Paperback
Published February 21, 2022
21 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Annie Bellet
83 books838 followersAnnie Bellet is a full-time speculative fiction writer. She holds a BA in English and a BA in Medieval Studies and thus can speak a smattering of useful languages such as Anglo-Saxon and Medieval Welsh.
Her books include Avarice (Pyrrh Considerable Crimes Division: Book 1), The Gryphonpike Chronicles series, and the Twenty-Sided Sorceress series.
Her interests besides writing include rock climbing, reading, horse-back riding, video games, comic books, table-top RPGs, and many other nerdy pursuits.
Want to be notified when her next book is released, receive free stories and books, and be notified about sales and other goodies? Sign up for Annie Bellet's mailing list
Or if you want sneak peaks, regular updates, and exclusive stories, consider supporting her Patreon. Patreon is here!
Her books include Avarice (Pyrrh Considerable Crimes Division: Book 1), The Gryphonpike Chronicles series, and the Twenty-Sided Sorceress series.
Her interests besides writing include rock climbing, reading, horse-back riding, video games, comic books, table-top RPGs, and many other nerdy pursuits.
Want to be notified when her next book is released, receive free stories and books, and be notified about sales and other goodies? Sign up for Annie Bellet's mailing list
Or if you want sneak peaks, regular updates, and exclusive stories, consider supporting her Patreon. Patreon is here!
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
February 18, 2022
The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild - Phaedra Weldon
I’ve read other books by Ms Weldon and enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to a different fairy tale take from her. She really did not disappoint. I won’t say which tale she chose to reimagine, but it was a real shock when I realised which it was, so outside the box. Thoroughly enjoyed this and plan to check out her new, similarly themed series.
Silvereyes and the Three Wolves - Nikki Jefford
Ms Jefford is unfamiliar to me as a writer. The style of this story reminded me of the movie Hoodwinked, which is a family favourite. It has a cozy-ish feel and is lighter in tone than some of the other stories in the anthology. It is told from the perspective of an under-pressure reporter for a top newspaper, a character she has taken forward to other fun-sounding work. A familiar tale turned on its head, I liked this quirky telling.
River Daughter- Annie Bellet
This story’s original theme is not one I’d come across, but the story reminds me of Far Eastern tales I’ve read in imagery and content. The writing style is beautiful and literary, as befits the story. The juxtaposition of such vastly different stylistic approaches really struck me at this point in the collection; I think this is one of this particular anthology’s greatest strengths. Fascinating and refreshing.
The Girl Who Cried Vamp - Christine Pope
I’m a big fan of the fabulous Ms Pope, I’ll eagerly read anything she writes and, according to my Kindle, I own 103 (really?! 103?!!) of her works. Fans may be familiar with the characters in ‘The Girl Who Cried Vamp’ from her Hedgewitch for Hire series. But if not, it doesn’t matter, this works well as a standalone, with quality writing a given.
The Ugly Daughter - Donna Augustine
A flip on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling. This struck me as a folk/ cozy mix, though the latter may be due to the sheer volume of bakery-based cozies out there. I guessed the twist quite early on.
Now all I can think about is Danny Kaye. “Theeeere once was an ugly duckling, with feathers all stubby and brown…”
Spider to the Fly- Kate Danley
Inspired by the poem, this has a Gothic feel with some unexpected twists and turns and a message to be careful who you trust.
Princess of Salt- Anthea Sharp
I’ve read a few versions of this story but no-one else has given the eponymous princess such depth of character. I found myself rooting for her and cheering her on, which is a good sign in a book, let alone a short story. Impressive.
The Huntress- Sara C Roethle
This vampire theme is right up Ms Roethle’s alley and features two familiar characters from one of her series. Hard to comment on without spoilers, suffice it to say that I found this story hugely enjoyable.
Yelf Reviews for Jaqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe- Kay McSpadden
This made me grin. A series of reviews from a mishmash of patrons like PigBros and PiperNinja, some good, some not, but I have the feeling Ms McSpadden had a riot writing this and it shows.
Marusia and the Monster - Jamie Ferguson
A proper folk tale with a modern take and a stronger, savvier Marusia than the Russian original. I felt that the monster element could have done with a little more depth and exploration as that aspect left me a little unsatisfied.
Twisted Cinderella - Julia Crane
As the title suggests, Ms Crane takes the basics of the familiar Cinderella story and imaginatively twists it into something else entirely, to explore the light/ dark dichotomy. It’s an interesting conceptualisation but I’m left feeling that it would work better as a longer work, where it could be more fully explored. To be fair, that’s one of the marks of fairy/ folk tales. They don’t tend to explore motivations and deeper meanings, so perhaps I’m unfair in hoping for it just because that’s what floats my boat. I really liked the twist on the fairy godmother.
Faefrost - Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
A retelling of The Snow Queen, with a very Celtic feel. It takes place in the author’s Otherworld universe. Not really my thing, but good if it is.
Cat in Combat Boots - C Gockel
I got this anthology as an ARC from C Gockel, who I truly rate as one of the best writers out there. As such, I was sooooo looking forward to her story, especially as the title made me smile.
Featuring a familiar character from the I Bring the Fire series, a sweet little kitty, magic and dragons. What more could a girl want?! A lesson that size isn’t everything. And don’t underestimate females. Loved it.
Blood and Water - Alethea Kontis
The Little Mermaid written more in the tradition of the darker Grimm tales, with nary a dancing, talking crab to be seen. I found it a little puzzling, feeling like I was missing important information, and wasn’t keen on the short, choppy writing style.
Breadcrumbs - Sara Cannon
Hansel and Gretel, of course. Breadcrumbs joins Gretel some years after the witch-in-the-oven incident. The introduction of vampires into the tale, and layers of confusion to obfuscate the truth, makes for an interesting and twisty, well-paced tale with a cliffhanger ending. Impressively well-rounded characters, given the length of the story.
I’ve read other books by Ms Weldon and enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to a different fairy tale take from her. She really did not disappoint. I won’t say which tale she chose to reimagine, but it was a real shock when I realised which it was, so outside the box. Thoroughly enjoyed this and plan to check out her new, similarly themed series.
Silvereyes and the Three Wolves - Nikki Jefford
Ms Jefford is unfamiliar to me as a writer. The style of this story reminded me of the movie Hoodwinked, which is a family favourite. It has a cozy-ish feel and is lighter in tone than some of the other stories in the anthology. It is told from the perspective of an under-pressure reporter for a top newspaper, a character she has taken forward to other fun-sounding work. A familiar tale turned on its head, I liked this quirky telling.
River Daughter- Annie Bellet
This story’s original theme is not one I’d come across, but the story reminds me of Far Eastern tales I’ve read in imagery and content. The writing style is beautiful and literary, as befits the story. The juxtaposition of such vastly different stylistic approaches really struck me at this point in the collection; I think this is one of this particular anthology’s greatest strengths. Fascinating and refreshing.
The Girl Who Cried Vamp - Christine Pope
I’m a big fan of the fabulous Ms Pope, I’ll eagerly read anything she writes and, according to my Kindle, I own 103 (really?! 103?!!) of her works. Fans may be familiar with the characters in ‘The Girl Who Cried Vamp’ from her Hedgewitch for Hire series. But if not, it doesn’t matter, this works well as a standalone, with quality writing a given.
The Ugly Daughter - Donna Augustine
A flip on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling. This struck me as a folk/ cozy mix, though the latter may be due to the sheer volume of bakery-based cozies out there. I guessed the twist quite early on.
Now all I can think about is Danny Kaye. “Theeeere once was an ugly duckling, with feathers all stubby and brown…”
Spider to the Fly- Kate Danley
Inspired by the poem, this has a Gothic feel with some unexpected twists and turns and a message to be careful who you trust.
Princess of Salt- Anthea Sharp
I’ve read a few versions of this story but no-one else has given the eponymous princess such depth of character. I found myself rooting for her and cheering her on, which is a good sign in a book, let alone a short story. Impressive.
The Huntress- Sara C Roethle
This vampire theme is right up Ms Roethle’s alley and features two familiar characters from one of her series. Hard to comment on without spoilers, suffice it to say that I found this story hugely enjoyable.
Yelf Reviews for Jaqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe- Kay McSpadden
This made me grin. A series of reviews from a mishmash of patrons like PigBros and PiperNinja, some good, some not, but I have the feeling Ms McSpadden had a riot writing this and it shows.
Marusia and the Monster - Jamie Ferguson
A proper folk tale with a modern take and a stronger, savvier Marusia than the Russian original. I felt that the monster element could have done with a little more depth and exploration as that aspect left me a little unsatisfied.
Twisted Cinderella - Julia Crane
As the title suggests, Ms Crane takes the basics of the familiar Cinderella story and imaginatively twists it into something else entirely, to explore the light/ dark dichotomy. It’s an interesting conceptualisation but I’m left feeling that it would work better as a longer work, where it could be more fully explored. To be fair, that’s one of the marks of fairy/ folk tales. They don’t tend to explore motivations and deeper meanings, so perhaps I’m unfair in hoping for it just because that’s what floats my boat. I really liked the twist on the fairy godmother.
Faefrost - Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
A retelling of The Snow Queen, with a very Celtic feel. It takes place in the author’s Otherworld universe. Not really my thing, but good if it is.
Cat in Combat Boots - C Gockel
I got this anthology as an ARC from C Gockel, who I truly rate as one of the best writers out there. As such, I was sooooo looking forward to her story, especially as the title made me smile.
Featuring a familiar character from the I Bring the Fire series, a sweet little kitty, magic and dragons. What more could a girl want?! A lesson that size isn’t everything. And don’t underestimate females. Loved it.
Blood and Water - Alethea Kontis
The Little Mermaid written more in the tradition of the darker Grimm tales, with nary a dancing, talking crab to be seen. I found it a little puzzling, feeling like I was missing important information, and wasn’t keen on the short, choppy writing style.
Breadcrumbs - Sara Cannon
Hansel and Gretel, of course. Breadcrumbs joins Gretel some years after the witch-in-the-oven incident. The introduction of vampires into the tale, and layers of confusion to obfuscate the truth, makes for an interesting and twisty, well-paced tale with a cliffhanger ending. Impressively well-rounded characters, given the length of the story.
February 18, 2022
Silvereyes and the Three Wolves - Nikki Jefford
What sheer brilliance and delightful entertainment! The fairytale elements were thrilling and just so much fun. I loved the twist on Goldilocks with a fresh feel. Pairing paranormal beings with a retelling makes for unputdownable reading!
Cat in Combat Boots - C. Gockel
Omgee! I absolutely loved this! The I Bring the Fire universe is one of my favorites! I was not ready for this to end! I need more. But this was just pure entertainment and delightful! Beatrice has always been spunky and with a spine of iron and it's fun to read her own thoughts. This retelling was imaginative and full of fire.
What sheer brilliance and delightful entertainment! The fairytale elements were thrilling and just so much fun. I loved the twist on Goldilocks with a fresh feel. Pairing paranormal beings with a retelling makes for unputdownable reading!
Cat in Combat Boots - C. Gockel
Omgee! I absolutely loved this! The I Bring the Fire universe is one of my favorites! I was not ready for this to end! I need more. But this was just pure entertainment and delightful! Beatrice has always been spunky and with a spine of iron and it's fun to read her own thoughts. This retelling was imaginative and full of fire.
September 3, 2022
15 fab dark fairytales with mostly a vamp twist mixed into the retellings, tho some have a different, non-bloody bite.
My shudderingly incisive, deliciously dark favourites:
5/5 🌟The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild by Phaedra Weldon is a vamp Pinocchio retelling. 22yo Dante wants to be a real Nightshade Hunter & he has a terrible secret. Loved the new twisted meaning of Puppet and loved the mafia feel of the story.
5/5 🌟Silvereyes and the Three Wolves by Nikki Jefford - is a Goldilocks & 3 Bears retelling that had me chuckling. Miss Silvereyes is a vampire on trial for burglary & property damage to 3 wolves. About time! Love Jefford’s humour - Genie Wants a Bottle tavern, lol.
5/5 🌟 Spider to the Fly by Kate Danley - oh, my said the fly to the spider. Loved this tale of gaslight era seduction and that twist - brilliant! The story is based on a poem by Mary Howitt - I had to go find & read it - and follows the elements closely, down to the turn of phrase. Loved it!
5/5 🌟 Cat in Combat Boots by C.Gockel is a retelling of Puss in Boots with a new dragon twist. Who said that the puss had to be male? What if the miller’s son was actually a dragon? And what if the princess isn’t what you expect and would be cut from the story altogether? A fab twisted & fresh take o this story.
5/5🌟 Blood & Water by Alethea Kontis is a Little Mermaid retelling, told from Ursula’s omni perspective. What if there was no grouper & seagull to take Ariel to shore where the prince can immediately find her? “She had saved his life, true, but how many others had she taken on her oarh back to him?” I loved the twist at the very end, super!
5/5🌟 Twisted Cinderella by Julia Crane - where Ella is told to save herself and the tale twists into a dark and portal-hopping Red Riding Hood story. A novel & powerful tale about choices. I loved the choice Ella was given: “be a dimwitted woman who can’t even keep her shoes on her feet or a woman who will bring people to their feet…”. Reminded me of Pinborough’s Beauty.
5/5 🌟 Breadcrumbs by Sarra Cannon os a Hansel&Gretel retelling with vamps instead of the cannibalistic witch. Through and through, things are not what they seem - is all I’m sayin’.
5/5 🌟River Daughter by Annie Bellet - bipoc - Ha is a pregnant river witch accosted by three northeners to ferry them to the sacred pool. No vamps in this one, but a haunting tale nevertheless - along the lines of Slavic Rusalkas luring men to their deaths.
5/5 🌟The Girl Who Cried Vamp by Christine Pope - also bipoc - Selena is the town woo-woo queen, keeps a shop called Once in a Blue Moon and is commissioned to “deal with ghosts” by a customer who doesn’t let up. Things turn deliciously dark as you’d expect it as per the original tale. I learnt a new thing: smudging as in witchy cleansing of apartments.
4/5 The Ugly Daughter by Donna Augustine - is a retelling of The Ugly Duckling. Winnie was mauled as a baby but lived. I loved the heartbreaking portrayal of Winni being shunned by her own family and finding where she truly belonged warmed my heart, but somehow I felt that the story should continue in a longer book.
4/5 Princess of Salt by Anthea Sharp - is a retelling if King Lear or actually the folktale it’s based on and this story with bite is about food (no vamps).
4/5 The Huntress by Sara C. Roethle - was an interesting cross between a Hans&Gretel retelling and the 2011 Red Riding Hood movie and then some. As the type of shifter creature was never actually named & that itked me, I’d say 4/5.
4/5 Yelf Reviews for Jacqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe by Kay McSpadden - a series of mostly bitchy (but hilarious) foodie reviews by fairytale characters and the biz owner’s replies; reminded me of Googlemap food reviews.
4/5 Marusia & the Monster by Jamie Ferguson - a little FF reverse retelling of a ghoulish Belle&Beast set in Mexico.
Faefrost by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson was a retelling of the Snow Queen, but the flow of the story and unicorns were not my cuppa, tbh.
Recommended for lovers of retold fairytales with a vamp twist.
My shudderingly incisive, deliciously dark favourites:
5/5 🌟The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild by Phaedra Weldon is a vamp Pinocchio retelling. 22yo Dante wants to be a real Nightshade Hunter & he has a terrible secret. Loved the new twisted meaning of Puppet and loved the mafia feel of the story.
5/5 🌟Silvereyes and the Three Wolves by Nikki Jefford - is a Goldilocks & 3 Bears retelling that had me chuckling. Miss Silvereyes is a vampire on trial for burglary & property damage to 3 wolves. About time! Love Jefford’s humour - Genie Wants a Bottle tavern, lol.
5/5 🌟 Spider to the Fly by Kate Danley - oh, my said the fly to the spider. Loved this tale of gaslight era seduction and that twist - brilliant! The story is based on a poem by Mary Howitt - I had to go find & read it - and follows the elements closely, down to the turn of phrase. Loved it!
5/5 🌟 Cat in Combat Boots by C.Gockel is a retelling of Puss in Boots with a new dragon twist. Who said that the puss had to be male? What if the miller’s son was actually a dragon? And what if the princess isn’t what you expect and would be cut from the story altogether? A fab twisted & fresh take o this story.
5/5🌟 Blood & Water by Alethea Kontis is a Little Mermaid retelling, told from Ursula’s omni perspective. What if there was no grouper & seagull to take Ariel to shore where the prince can immediately find her? “She had saved his life, true, but how many others had she taken on her oarh back to him?” I loved the twist at the very end, super!
5/5🌟 Twisted Cinderella by Julia Crane - where Ella is told to save herself and the tale twists into a dark and portal-hopping Red Riding Hood story. A novel & powerful tale about choices. I loved the choice Ella was given: “be a dimwitted woman who can’t even keep her shoes on her feet or a woman who will bring people to their feet…”. Reminded me of Pinborough’s Beauty.
5/5 🌟 Breadcrumbs by Sarra Cannon os a Hansel&Gretel retelling with vamps instead of the cannibalistic witch. Through and through, things are not what they seem - is all I’m sayin’.
5/5 🌟River Daughter by Annie Bellet - bipoc - Ha is a pregnant river witch accosted by three northeners to ferry them to the sacred pool. No vamps in this one, but a haunting tale nevertheless - along the lines of Slavic Rusalkas luring men to their deaths.
5/5 🌟The Girl Who Cried Vamp by Christine Pope - also bipoc - Selena is the town woo-woo queen, keeps a shop called Once in a Blue Moon and is commissioned to “deal with ghosts” by a customer who doesn’t let up. Things turn deliciously dark as you’d expect it as per the original tale. I learnt a new thing: smudging as in witchy cleansing of apartments.
4/5 The Ugly Daughter by Donna Augustine - is a retelling of The Ugly Duckling. Winnie was mauled as a baby but lived. I loved the heartbreaking portrayal of Winni being shunned by her own family and finding where she truly belonged warmed my heart, but somehow I felt that the story should continue in a longer book.
4/5 Princess of Salt by Anthea Sharp - is a retelling if King Lear or actually the folktale it’s based on and this story with bite is about food (no vamps).
4/5 The Huntress by Sara C. Roethle - was an interesting cross between a Hans&Gretel retelling and the 2011 Red Riding Hood movie and then some. As the type of shifter creature was never actually named & that itked me, I’d say 4/5.
4/5 Yelf Reviews for Jacqueline’s Beanstalk Cafe by Kay McSpadden - a series of mostly bitchy (but hilarious) foodie reviews by fairytale characters and the biz owner’s replies; reminded me of Googlemap food reviews.
4/5 Marusia & the Monster by Jamie Ferguson - a little FF reverse retelling of a ghoulish Belle&Beast set in Mexico.
Faefrost by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson was a retelling of the Snow Queen, but the flow of the story and unicorns were not my cuppa, tbh.
Recommended for lovers of retold fairytales with a vamp twist.
March 4, 2022
Cool anthology! Here is a preview on some:
Silvereyes and the Three wolves- By Nikki Jefford
- The cool wolves vs Goldilocks, retelling! 😅 All huddled in one court room getting ready to spill the beans! Buckle up, is a great trial in the paranormal world you don’t wana miss!
The girl who cried Vamp- by Christine Pope
-Ha! talk about nosey neighbors! This totally reminded me of nosey neighbors with absurds stories! And of course the One time you don’t wana listen is the One time you should have 😈🤣 Hilarious! Loved it!
The Ugly Daughter-by Donna Augustine
Be still my heart ♥️. This one. This one was so special. Ugly duckling like never before. One of my Favorites in this Bundle!!! Be Strong. Be who you are. You are Worth it. #ScarsAreBeautiful
Blood and Water -by Alethea Kontis
-Oh my word. The little mermaid, a dark retelling told by none other then the sea witch... or was it? 🧜♀️ Who is the real villain? 💔 beautiful. tragic.Hopeful.
Princess of Salt -by Anthea Sharp
-A princess risking everything in the name of love! I love the heroine who stays true to herself till the very end! Love and food is always a good combination 😋!
Marusia and the Monster- by Jamie Ferguson
-aww love is love! this was a FF romance and it was cute! Love shall set the monster free! literally 😊
Twisted Cinderella-by Julia Crane
-Vampire cinderella✔️ Dark prince charming ✔️ Stepmother ✔️ Evil sisters ✔️Light vs dark. Let the games begin 😈
Faefrost -by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
-All the feels! Best friends rock! What a sweet retelling of the snow queen and what friendship is all about! I loved it!!! and possibly a love story that could happen in the future between these two! Im definitely checking this series out!
Breadcrumbs-by Sara Cannon
-Oh this had me begging for more! love the unique story! It had action, drama, and romance! im hoping for more! Ps. im also hoping we can keep the boyfriend for Gretel!
#SinblingsRule#Breadcrumbs#letsFindHansel
The Huntress- by Sara C. Roethle
-Super cool and twisted remake of the little red riding hood! Creepy old granny! The angst and bickering between the huntress and her flirty vampire was fun! Loved it!!! ♥️
Cat in Combat boots -by C.Gockel
-super cute and different!! that ending left me ❤️🥰🤯! i want more! more! This couple was fresh and unique and i need a full story! @gockel where can i find more info on this!?😅
Yelf reviews for Jaqueline’s beanstalk cafe by Kay McSpadden
-This, right here was HILARIOUS!!! i snorted so much 🤣🤣🤣!!! every fairytale character reviews this cool beanstalk cafe! Just picture Yelp for Once upon a Time 😅
“Sleeping Beauty (3 stars) If you are looking for something “out of the box,” you can’t go wrong with Jackie’s homemade nettle pie. I admit I was skittish at first to try it (I mean—nettles—ouch!) but they were cooked to perfection.
Jackie Beans Business Owner reply: Thank you so much for the positive review! You prove that not every princess is a spoiled diva!
Silvereyes and the Three wolves- By Nikki Jefford
- The cool wolves vs Goldilocks, retelling! 😅 All huddled in one court room getting ready to spill the beans! Buckle up, is a great trial in the paranormal world you don’t wana miss!
The girl who cried Vamp- by Christine Pope
-Ha! talk about nosey neighbors! This totally reminded me of nosey neighbors with absurds stories! And of course the One time you don’t wana listen is the One time you should have 😈🤣 Hilarious! Loved it!
The Ugly Daughter-by Donna Augustine
Be still my heart ♥️. This one. This one was so special. Ugly duckling like never before. One of my Favorites in this Bundle!!! Be Strong. Be who you are. You are Worth it. #ScarsAreBeautiful
Blood and Water -by Alethea Kontis
-Oh my word. The little mermaid, a dark retelling told by none other then the sea witch... or was it? 🧜♀️ Who is the real villain? 💔 beautiful. tragic.Hopeful.
Princess of Salt -by Anthea Sharp
-A princess risking everything in the name of love! I love the heroine who stays true to herself till the very end! Love and food is always a good combination 😋!
Marusia and the Monster- by Jamie Ferguson
-aww love is love! this was a FF romance and it was cute! Love shall set the monster free! literally 😊
Twisted Cinderella-by Julia Crane
-Vampire cinderella✔️ Dark prince charming ✔️ Stepmother ✔️ Evil sisters ✔️Light vs dark. Let the games begin 😈
Faefrost -by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
-All the feels! Best friends rock! What a sweet retelling of the snow queen and what friendship is all about! I loved it!!! and possibly a love story that could happen in the future between these two! Im definitely checking this series out!
Breadcrumbs-by Sara Cannon
-Oh this had me begging for more! love the unique story! It had action, drama, and romance! im hoping for more! Ps. im also hoping we can keep the boyfriend for Gretel!
#SinblingsRule#Breadcrumbs#letsFindHansel
The Huntress- by Sara C. Roethle
-Super cool and twisted remake of the little red riding hood! Creepy old granny! The angst and bickering between the huntress and her flirty vampire was fun! Loved it!!! ♥️
Cat in Combat boots -by C.Gockel
-super cute and different!! that ending left me ❤️🥰🤯! i want more! more! This couple was fresh and unique and i need a full story! @gockel where can i find more info on this!?😅
Yelf reviews for Jaqueline’s beanstalk cafe by Kay McSpadden
-This, right here was HILARIOUS!!! i snorted so much 🤣🤣🤣!!! every fairytale character reviews this cool beanstalk cafe! Just picture Yelp for Once upon a Time 😅
“Sleeping Beauty (3 stars) If you are looking for something “out of the box,” you can’t go wrong with Jackie’s homemade nettle pie. I admit I was skittish at first to try it (I mean—nettles—ouch!) but they were cooked to perfection.
Jackie Beans Business Owner reply: Thank you so much for the positive review! You prove that not every princess is a spoiled diva!
February 21, 2022
The first story "The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild" enthralled me with its unexpected twists and turns and I really liked how the original tale was spun around.
The second story "Silvereyes and the Three Wolves" made me laugh out loud in places, it took me a while to find out what original fairy tale it was and there were so many others which were touched, I enjoyed that very much.
River Daughter - felt off topic to me but nevertheless I enjoyed the story and the witch and the underhanded violence that only hits after you have read it.
The Girl Who Cried Vamp - was a bit all over the place and rushed for me and made me question if every author was responsible for their own proof reading.
The Ugly Daughter was heartbreaking (and I felt for the baker, especially in the end) but liked how the original was spun here.
Spider to the fly dragged on quite a bit before the satisfying end.
Princess of Salt was great, I liked the retelling and the characters (especially the princesses and the miller's wife).
The Huntress - well, I really liked the story mostly but if she has to be saved by a man that often, maybe she should look for a less dangerous occupation. Still, I think I may look into the book where this love story came from.
Yelf reviews - short but entertaining, an interesting way of writing and very good ideas, made me laugh a lot.
Marusia and the Monster - I liked the idea and what was done with it, especially the POV.
Twisted Cinderella - was not for me, unfortunately. Too long, maybe too twisted for my taste.
Faefrost - drew me in and captivated me. The way the original story was twisted and perfectly fit into the author's world was great.
Cat in Combat Boots took a while until it really gripped me but then it had me and had me good. Absolutely enjoyable and entertaining to the end. What a cliffhanger! Where can I read on?
Blood and Water nearly broke my heart. Again and again. And the end? Woooaaahh! Never expected that. Amazeballs!
Breadcrumbs made me fall for Maggie and Cole. And yes, please, make it a series!
The second story "Silvereyes and the Three Wolves" made me laugh out loud in places, it took me a while to find out what original fairy tale it was and there were so many others which were touched, I enjoyed that very much.
River Daughter - felt off topic to me but nevertheless I enjoyed the story and the witch and the underhanded violence that only hits after you have read it.
The Girl Who Cried Vamp - was a bit all over the place and rushed for me and made me question if every author was responsible for their own proof reading.
The Ugly Daughter was heartbreaking (and I felt for the baker, especially in the end) but liked how the original was spun here.
Spider to the fly dragged on quite a bit before the satisfying end.
Princess of Salt was great, I liked the retelling and the characters (especially the princesses and the miller's wife).
The Huntress - well, I really liked the story mostly but if she has to be saved by a man that often, maybe she should look for a less dangerous occupation. Still, I think I may look into the book where this love story came from.
Yelf reviews - short but entertaining, an interesting way of writing and very good ideas, made me laugh a lot.
Marusia and the Monster - I liked the idea and what was done with it, especially the POV.
Twisted Cinderella - was not for me, unfortunately. Too long, maybe too twisted for my taste.
Faefrost - drew me in and captivated me. The way the original story was twisted and perfectly fit into the author's world was great.
Cat in Combat Boots took a while until it really gripped me but then it had me and had me good. Absolutely enjoyable and entertaining to the end. What a cliffhanger! Where can I read on?
Blood and Water nearly broke my heart. Again and again. And the end? Woooaaahh! Never expected that. Amazeballs!
Breadcrumbs made me fall for Maggie and Cole. And yes, please, make it a series!
February 19, 2022
Reviewed The Ugly Daughter by Donna Augustine:
I got this cool anthology and read The Ugly Daughter by Donna Augustine and absolutely LOVED this short story! Such a unique and way better take on The Ugly Duckling. It was a really quick read that was impossible to put down!
My heart went out all the way for Winni. The way everyone treated her because of her scars made me sad for her but I also was pretty amazed with the way she held her head high through all the meanness. And then when we learn what she is and finally gets to be around those that appreciate and understand her it was pretty fantastic and I was extremely happy for her. My only complaint is I wish it was a full length novel because it was 100% amazing!
I give The Ugly Daughter a IT WAS SO GOOD I WISH THERE WAS MORE FIVE SATSIFYING STARS!
I got this cool anthology and read The Ugly Daughter by Donna Augustine and absolutely LOVED this short story! Such a unique and way better take on The Ugly Duckling. It was a really quick read that was impossible to put down!
My heart went out all the way for Winni. The way everyone treated her because of her scars made me sad for her but I also was pretty amazed with the way she held her head high through all the meanness. And then when we learn what she is and finally gets to be around those that appreciate and understand her it was pretty fantastic and I was extremely happy for her. My only complaint is I wish it was a full length novel because it was 100% amazing!
I give The Ugly Daughter a IT WAS SO GOOD I WISH THERE WAS MORE FIVE SATSIFYING STARS!
February 23, 2022
This book does not disappoint. I did not expect it to. None of them yet have.
This is part of an ongoing anthology series by a group of mostly urban fantasy authors. Every one of them has been a treat for me to read. I discovered some of my favorite authors from these anthologies, so I might be a bit biased but each story in this power-packed book is truly unique. Interesting. Entertaining. Fun.
It's not a book of vampire stories, although some stories do contain vampires. All sorts of things that go bump in the night can bite, not just the pale, broody guys in the capes. So if vamps aren't your thing, look again, there is something in this book for you.
My favorites, in no particular order:
Cat in Combat Boots - C. Gockel
Breadcrumbs - Sarra Cannon
The Ugly Daughter - Donna Augustine
This is part of an ongoing anthology series by a group of mostly urban fantasy authors. Every one of them has been a treat for me to read. I discovered some of my favorite authors from these anthologies, so I might be a bit biased but each story in this power-packed book is truly unique. Interesting. Entertaining. Fun.
It's not a book of vampire stories, although some stories do contain vampires. All sorts of things that go bump in the night can bite, not just the pale, broody guys in the capes. So if vamps aren't your thing, look again, there is something in this book for you.
My favorites, in no particular order:
Cat in Combat Boots - C. Gockel
Breadcrumbs - Sarra Cannon
The Ugly Daughter - Donna Augustine
March 8, 2022
I was given this book as an ARC for an honest review. I have only had time to read one story and that is Cat in Combat Boots. I could not stop reading, it was a very engaging story about dragons and their culture. I plan to get to the other stories as soon as I can. If they are as good as this one, it will be worth it.
Spoiler: I must admit that it took me a minute to realize that Beatrice was The Beatrice from the “I Bring the Fire” series. That made the story even funnier because if you know Beatrice from that series, you will find her being made young and able to be a cat to be quite funny.
Spoiler: I must admit that it took me a minute to realize that Beatrice was The Beatrice from the “I Bring the Fire” series. That made the story even funnier because if you know Beatrice from that series, you will find her being made young and able to be a cat to be quite funny.
February 15, 2022
I found these 15 short stories to cover a wide range of stories. The story I enjoyed the most was Cat in Cowboy Boots. Now that story was just so much fun. Now I happen to have the most adorable pitch-black cat that is just to die for! I guess I am saying pick up the anthology - some you won't want to read after dark, and some you might want to curl up and read to your grandbabies. BUT read them all first as some are definitely not for those with sensitive ears! Pick it up and have a good time! I received this novel from one of the authors. This is my truthful and honest opinion.
March 15, 2022
I enjoyed most of these very much. My faves were Breadcrumbs by Sarra Cannon and The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild by Phaedra Weldon.
April 12, 2022
This is a fantastic collection. I enjoyed every story with Breadcrumbs by Sarra Cannon and The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild by Phaedra Weldon being my faves.
Currently reading
April 18, 2022The Blue Fairy Hunters Guild **
Silvereyes and the Three wolves **
River Daughter ***
The Girl Who Cried Vamp **
The Ugly Daughter **
Spider to the Fly *
Princess of Salt **
The Huntress
Silvereyes and the Three wolves **
River Daughter ***
The Girl Who Cried Vamp **
The Ugly Daughter **
Spider to the Fly *
Princess of Salt **
The Huntress
September 12, 2022
Breadcrumbs by Sarra Cannon was something different that I liked....
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