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Happily Ever Island
Passez de « Il était une fois » à « Et ils vécurent heureux à jamais », le tout en une semaine !
Madison, grande rêveuse et fan inconditionnelle de Disney, et Lanie, étudiante studieuse et pragmatique, sont des meilleures amies improbables, mais elles feraient tout l’une pour l’autre. Ainsi, lorsque la vie de Madison commence à s’effondrer, Lanie accepte de l’accompagner pour tester la toute nouvelle expérience de vacances de Disney : Happily ever island - une destination de vacances immersive, où les adultes peuvent devenir leur personnage Disney préféré pendant une semaine.
Madison sera Cendrillon : toute sa vie, elle a rêvé de vivre comme une princesse de contes de fées ! Lanie, elle, sera Merida – mais elle n’a aucune intention de s’amuser.
Pourtant, une fois sur l’île, rien ne se passe comme prévu : Madison se retrouve à manquer ou à gâcher des « instants magiques ». Pendant ce temps, Lanie se retrouve inopinément emportée dans cette magie à laquelle elle ne croyait pas, et entame une histoire d’amour secrète...
Avec l’amitié, la romance et toute leur vie d’adulte en jeu, Lanie et Madison vivent une semaine pleine de rires et de larmes, allant bien au-delà de la magie Disney.
Madison, grande rêveuse et fan inconditionnelle de Disney, et Lanie, étudiante studieuse et pragmatique, sont des meilleures amies improbables, mais elles feraient tout l’une pour l’autre. Ainsi, lorsque la vie de Madison commence à s’effondrer, Lanie accepte de l’accompagner pour tester la toute nouvelle expérience de vacances de Disney : Happily ever island - une destination de vacances immersive, où les adultes peuvent devenir leur personnage Disney préféré pendant une semaine.
Madison sera Cendrillon : toute sa vie, elle a rêvé de vivre comme une princesse de contes de fées ! Lanie, elle, sera Merida – mais elle n’a aucune intention de s’amuser.
Pourtant, une fois sur l’île, rien ne se passe comme prévu : Madison se retrouve à manquer ou à gâcher des « instants magiques ». Pendant ce temps, Lanie se retrouve inopinément emportée dans cette magie à laquelle elle ne croyait pas, et entame une histoire d’amour secrète...
Avec l’amitié, la romance et toute leur vie d’adulte en jeu, Lanie et Madison vivent une semaine pleine de rires et de larmes, allant bien au-delà de la magie Disney.
323 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2022
29 people are currently reading
1833 people want to read
About the author
Crystal Cestari
8 books303 followersOh hey! Thanks for stopping by!
Writing has been my jam since I was very young. In fact, in fifth grade we filled out a profile declaring what we would be doing as adults. I wrote I wanted to be an author because: "I love reading and stories, and want to share that love." My elementary-school self was very wise, because that sentiment holds true today.
I live just outside Chicago with my daughter. My likes include ice cream and bulldogs, and dislikes span from broccoli to wet sneakers on linoleum (the worst). I always carry around a notebook to scribble down ideas. Writing longhand works best for me (even though it's the slowest method ever) because looking at a blank piece of paper is somehow less intimidating than a blank screen. Plus, there are so many pretty notebooks and pens to doodle with!
The Best Kind of Magic is my first YA novel, and I can't wait to share it! Shoot me a message if you'd like; happy reading, fellow Goodreader!
Writing has been my jam since I was very young. In fact, in fifth grade we filled out a profile declaring what we would be doing as adults. I wrote I wanted to be an author because: "I love reading and stories, and want to share that love." My elementary-school self was very wise, because that sentiment holds true today.
I live just outside Chicago with my daughter. My likes include ice cream and bulldogs, and dislikes span from broccoli to wet sneakers on linoleum (the worst). I always carry around a notebook to scribble down ideas. Writing longhand works best for me (even though it's the slowest method ever) because looking at a blank piece of paper is somehow less intimidating than a blank screen. Plus, there are so many pretty notebooks and pens to doodle with!
The Best Kind of Magic is my first YA novel, and I can't wait to share it! Shoot me a message if you'd like; happy reading, fellow Goodreader!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 269 reviews
July 12, 2022
This was SO GOOD, and everything I was looking for to fill the void that Austenland left. It's light, it's fun, and it's filled with epic Disney moments and so much nostalgia, while offering new ideas for the ultimate Disney experience.
This is a dual POV, and not remembering the blurb, I initially thought that Madison and Lanie might end up together, but they are just best friends. However, the introduction of Val and Prince Charming as love interests, especially Val who I grew to love very quickly.
This is a slightly mad romp through a virtual Disneyland experience, which Val, playing Cinderella, and Lanie, playing Merida, are trying out the first one of. I would honestly love a sequel set a few years later with new characters in the park, when it had found it's footing, potentially with a cameo or two.
This is a dual POV, and not remembering the blurb, I initially thought that Madison and Lanie might end up together, but they are just best friends. However, the introduction of Val and Prince Charming as love interests, especially Val who I grew to love very quickly.
This is a slightly mad romp through a virtual Disneyland experience, which Val, playing Cinderella, and Lanie, playing Merida, are trying out the first one of. I would honestly love a sequel set a few years later with new characters in the park, when it had found it's footing, potentially with a cameo or two.
did-not-finish
January 31, 2023I'm going to make people mad, but there's really no other way to say this except to say it: this is a book only white people can love. It is the whitest shit I have ever seen. It is excruciatingly, violently white American, and it's not self-aware enough to poke fun at itself or have fun. It's just painful. I made it to 52% while on an airplane and the next day when I tried to give it the ol' college try and make it to the end, I just couldn't do it.
Everything you could ever hate about Disney adults--particularly the fact that they don't act like mature adults and that they have the intellectual imagination and curiosity of a toothpick--is here.
It's obvious from the concept, content, and copyright that this is IP, and I thought I was here for it, because it's a fun concept. But the prose is trying so fucking hard to be cutesy and chatty while also putting in what seems to be a required one IP mention per paragraph that you can't even enjoy a silly but fun concept because it's mishandled by an incompetent writer (and, to be fair, probably also in a stranglehold from corporate re: using trademarks as much as possible). This looks far too much like how I wrote stories in middle school--exclamation points galore, and reading more like an endless self-insert fanfic without a structure or a planned ending than a contained story. And as a middle schooler, I had a better grasp of mechanics than this author, a supposed adult. I'll grant that I had an ARC and that it's technically possible (though unlikely given the publishing industry) that all the myriad typos and sloppy grammar and writing were fixed before pub, but they're present in the copy that I read, and it was really annoying.
For somewhere so magical, the descriptions were really weak, so it was hard to imagine anything. This book really relies on its readership being Disney adults who can fill in the blanks.
Everything here is a cliche, and none of those cliches are turned on their head or critiqued or anything, they're just there because that was apparently all the various parties involved in this project could come up with creatively. Nobody talks like a real person, but nor do they talk in some sort of stylized way that might make sense for such a strange setting. It's just badly written. And it just has this painfully earnest liberal white lady attempts at diversity, like describing Beautiful Black Skin or "a nice Latinx couple," which I guess are just growing pains in this generation of fiction but I still want to point them out because they stick out like a sore thumb in a novel that is nothing but trademarks dropped left and right and painfully forced bits of plot or characterization out of a box of stock characters.
I think it's telling, too, that in making it 52% of the way through this book, I got not even a hint of something odd going on, so there's also a problem with pacing. I kept reading because I assumed there would be either some dark or funny-dark underbelly to such a dreamy place, but in all that reading I didn't even get an inkling of it. Maybe it would have been on the next page? Maybe never? I'll never know, because I will absolutely not be giving this book more of my time.
Everything you could ever hate about Disney adults--particularly the fact that they don't act like mature adults and that they have the intellectual imagination and curiosity of a toothpick--is here.
It's obvious from the concept, content, and copyright that this is IP, and I thought I was here for it, because it's a fun concept. But the prose is trying so fucking hard to be cutesy and chatty while also putting in what seems to be a required one IP mention per paragraph that you can't even enjoy a silly but fun concept because it's mishandled by an incompetent writer (and, to be fair, probably also in a stranglehold from corporate re: using trademarks as much as possible). This looks far too much like how I wrote stories in middle school--exclamation points galore, and reading more like an endless self-insert fanfic without a structure or a planned ending than a contained story. And as a middle schooler, I had a better grasp of mechanics than this author, a supposed adult. I'll grant that I had an ARC and that it's technically possible (though unlikely given the publishing industry) that all the myriad typos and sloppy grammar and writing were fixed before pub, but they're present in the copy that I read, and it was really annoying.
For somewhere so magical, the descriptions were really weak, so it was hard to imagine anything. This book really relies on its readership being Disney adults who can fill in the blanks.
Everything here is a cliche, and none of those cliches are turned on their head or critiqued or anything, they're just there because that was apparently all the various parties involved in this project could come up with creatively. Nobody talks like a real person, but nor do they talk in some sort of stylized way that might make sense for such a strange setting. It's just badly written. And it just has this painfully earnest liberal white lady attempts at diversity, like describing Beautiful Black Skin or "a nice Latinx couple," which I guess are just growing pains in this generation of fiction but I still want to point them out because they stick out like a sore thumb in a novel that is nothing but trademarks dropped left and right and painfully forced bits of plot or characterization out of a box of stock characters.
I think it's telling, too, that in making it 52% of the way through this book, I got not even a hint of something odd going on, so there's also a problem with pacing. I kept reading because I assumed there would be either some dark or funny-dark underbelly to such a dreamy place, but in all that reading I didn't even get an inkling of it. Maybe it would have been on the next page? Maybe never? I'll never know, because I will absolutely not be giving this book more of my time.
April 23, 2022
This book is basically every Disney lover’s dream. Anyone who has ever fantasized about being a Disney princess (or if you’re like me, still does), this book will probably be your dream come true. This book is written about Disney fans, for Disney fans.
Basically, Disney comes out with this immersive resort experience where you can fully become the fairytale character persona of your choice, wardrobe and all. This includes everything from live action role plays of iconic scenes from these Disney movies, to sights and sensations that fully immerse you into these movie scenes. Each part of the Happily Ever Island is divided into themed sections representing each Disney princess’ story. As a Disney princess fanatic, if this ever became a real thing I think I would actually cry.
First off, WHY THE HELL ISNT THIS REAL. We all have that one fictional character we have a connection to, and for me it’s Snow White. There are home videos of me as a 4 year old pretending to be her at Disney world, I insisted on riding Snow White’s Scary Adventures so many times in a row that the ride attendant noticed every single time (eventually my mom had to cut me off after 4 times in a row even though I asked for a fifth time). Even as an adult this has not changed, seeing as last time I went to Disney World I not only disneybounded as Snow White for 5 days straight, I insisted on meeting Snow White three times during that week and it just happened to be the same face character playing Snow White each time which was super embarrassing. Basically, I’ve identified as Snow White ever since I was a child and still do, even as an adult. I would absolutely DIE to be able to ACTUALLY be Snow White for a week. What the heck? This idea is brilliant!!!!!!
I LOVE that this book shows how there are adults (like Madison in this book) that still love the magic of Disney, because honestly, a huge portion of the Disney princess franchise lovers actually are adults! This book really normalizes loving Disney princesses in adulthood, which I absolutely love. I love that this book preaches how celebrating the things you love should never be seen as childish, even if it’s Disney when you’re an adult.
It’s a cute, low stakes contemporary book, without a super engaging plot but cute nonetheless. Not usually my kind of book but of course this was the exception because DISNEY. That’s why I really only recommend this to Disney fans; I don’t think you’d enjoy it otherwise. But for Disney fans, this book is filled with Disney magic and one you will most definitely enjoy!
Thank you to Netgalley and Disney Hyperion for sending me and advanced copy in return for my honest review.
Basically, Disney comes out with this immersive resort experience where you can fully become the fairytale character persona of your choice, wardrobe and all. This includes everything from live action role plays of iconic scenes from these Disney movies, to sights and sensations that fully immerse you into these movie scenes. Each part of the Happily Ever Island is divided into themed sections representing each Disney princess’ story. As a Disney princess fanatic, if this ever became a real thing I think I would actually cry.
First off, WHY THE HELL ISNT THIS REAL. We all have that one fictional character we have a connection to, and for me it’s Snow White. There are home videos of me as a 4 year old pretending to be her at Disney world, I insisted on riding Snow White’s Scary Adventures so many times in a row that the ride attendant noticed every single time (eventually my mom had to cut me off after 4 times in a row even though I asked for a fifth time). Even as an adult this has not changed, seeing as last time I went to Disney World I not only disneybounded as Snow White for 5 days straight, I insisted on meeting Snow White three times during that week and it just happened to be the same face character playing Snow White each time which was super embarrassing. Basically, I’ve identified as Snow White ever since I was a child and still do, even as an adult. I would absolutely DIE to be able to ACTUALLY be Snow White for a week. What the heck? This idea is brilliant!!!!!!
I LOVE that this book shows how there are adults (like Madison in this book) that still love the magic of Disney, because honestly, a huge portion of the Disney princess franchise lovers actually are adults! This book really normalizes loving Disney princesses in adulthood, which I absolutely love. I love that this book preaches how celebrating the things you love should never be seen as childish, even if it’s Disney when you’re an adult.
It’s a cute, low stakes contemporary book, without a super engaging plot but cute nonetheless. Not usually my kind of book but of course this was the exception because DISNEY. That’s why I really only recommend this to Disney fans; I don’t think you’d enjoy it otherwise. But for Disney fans, this book is filled with Disney magic and one you will most definitely enjoy!
Thank you to Netgalley and Disney Hyperion for sending me and advanced copy in return for my honest review.
July 1, 2022
Cute. And also: I'm not good at suspending disbelief. I want to believe in the fantasy, and instead I'm over here imagining the headlines.
---
Lanie and Prince Charming take a horse out of a stable, unsupervised, saddle it (still unsupervised), and go for an unsupervised ride: DISNEY ISLAND SUED WHEN COUPLE FALLS OFF HORSE: 'I've never ridden or saddled a horse before,' said the woman, 19, sporting an egg-shaped lump on her head. 'But they told us it was easy!'
Lanie goes snorkeling and has to dive deeeeeep (no SCUBA gear! no oxygen!) to get a glimpse of an underwater castle: 14TH VISITOR THIS MONTH DROWNS AT DISNEY ISLAND: 'It was the only way to see the castle,' a grieving mother told the Disbelief in Motion. 'We never would have let him go if they'd told us about the risks.'
Madison and Lanie spend a while playing on the library ladders in the Beast's castle: CHILD IN ICU AFTER FALLING OFF LADDER AT DISNEY ISLAND: 'We were told it was fine to explore!' an indignant guest said, gesturing with his crutches. 'I was lucky—I only sprained my ankle. The kid across the room, though...'
Lanie gets back to her building and is told that Prince Charming, whose real name she doesn't know, is waiting for her in her room: GUESTS SUE AFTER STALKERS GIVEN FREE REIN IN THEIR ROOMS: 'The castle was beautiful, but there was no security, and apparently the locks on the door didn't work,' said one traumatised guest, who asked not to be named.
Madison goes back to her room to cry-slash-have-her-hero-moment and a fairygodmother appears: MORE GUESTS SUE AFTER STALKERS GIVEN FREE REIN IN THEIR ROOMS: 'What if I'd been naked?' asked one guest. 'She wouldn't even tell me how she got in.'
The whole thing where the 'hero moment' for the Little Mermaid is the 'Kiss the Girl' scene in a boat, and the Ariel/Eric guests seem to be strangers: SEXUAL HARASSMENT CHARGES AT DISNEY ISLAND: 'I didn't want to kiss a stranger,' said the unnamed woman, who saved for years to come on this vacation. 'But he insisted, because it was part of the scene, and none of the staff seemed to care.'
---
I don't know, guys. I got really stuck on the logistics of it all. Like, Lanie is there as Madison's plus-one, but they're assigned completely different storylines and parts of the island. Did none of the contest winners (i.e., not the plus-ones) want to be Merida?(???) Or Prince Charming? Madison's Cinderella room sleeps one. How would that work if a couple were there, or a family? When the island opens for real (not for this trial run), is there only ever going to be one Cinderella guest, one Merida, etc., at any given point in time? Are all the hero-moment setups just dormant for most of the week? (Seems inefficient...) What if you want to play at being Snow White but don't want to be kissed by a stranger? What if you're playing Mulan and are ready for your I'll Make a Man Out of You moment but the person playing Li Shang has overslept? What if you don't want strangers breaking into your room willy-nilly?
---
Lanie and Prince Charming take a horse out of a stable, unsupervised, saddle it (still unsupervised), and go for an unsupervised ride: DISNEY ISLAND SUED WHEN COUPLE FALLS OFF HORSE: 'I've never ridden or saddled a horse before,' said the woman, 19, sporting an egg-shaped lump on her head. 'But they told us it was easy!'
Lanie goes snorkeling and has to dive deeeeeep (no SCUBA gear! no oxygen!) to get a glimpse of an underwater castle: 14TH VISITOR THIS MONTH DROWNS AT DISNEY ISLAND: 'It was the only way to see the castle,' a grieving mother told the Disbelief in Motion. 'We never would have let him go if they'd told us about the risks.'
Madison and Lanie spend a while playing on the library ladders in the Beast's castle: CHILD IN ICU AFTER FALLING OFF LADDER AT DISNEY ISLAND: 'We were told it was fine to explore!' an indignant guest said, gesturing with his crutches. 'I was lucky—I only sprained my ankle. The kid across the room, though...'
Lanie gets back to her building and is told that Prince Charming, whose real name she doesn't know, is waiting for her in her room: GUESTS SUE AFTER STALKERS GIVEN FREE REIN IN THEIR ROOMS: 'The castle was beautiful, but there was no security, and apparently the locks on the door didn't work,' said one traumatised guest, who asked not to be named.
Madison goes back to her room to cry-slash-have-her-hero-moment and a fairygodmother appears: MORE GUESTS SUE AFTER STALKERS GIVEN FREE REIN IN THEIR ROOMS: 'What if I'd been naked?' asked one guest. 'She wouldn't even tell me how she got in.'
The whole thing where the 'hero moment' for the Little Mermaid is the 'Kiss the Girl' scene in a boat, and the Ariel/Eric guests seem to be strangers: SEXUAL HARASSMENT CHARGES AT DISNEY ISLAND: 'I didn't want to kiss a stranger,' said the unnamed woman, who saved for years to come on this vacation. 'But he insisted, because it was part of the scene, and none of the staff seemed to care.'
---
I don't know, guys. I got really stuck on the logistics of it all. Like, Lanie is there as Madison's plus-one, but they're assigned completely different storylines and parts of the island. Did none of the contest winners (i.e., not the plus-ones) want to be Merida?(???) Or Prince Charming? Madison's Cinderella room sleeps one. How would that work if a couple were there, or a family? When the island opens for real (not for this trial run), is there only ever going to be one Cinderella guest, one Merida, etc., at any given point in time? Are all the hero-moment setups just dormant for most of the week? (Seems inefficient...) What if you want to play at being Snow White but don't want to be kissed by a stranger? What if you're playing Mulan and are ready for your I'll Make a Man Out of You moment but the person playing Li Shang has overslept? What if you don't want strangers breaking into your room willy-nilly?
June 9, 2022
This was PURE Disney cheese. I am not a romcom person at all but as a Disney person and an ex cast member I had a lot of fun with this. I wish this island actually existed! I would totally visit.
June 2, 2022
Full Review on The Candid Cover
Happily Ever Island by Crystal Cestari is an inventive story about a spring break trip to Disney’s newest resort. I loved reading about the characters becoming a Disney character of their choice, and both of the main characters are relatable. The activities at the resort are described in detail, which makes Happily Ever Island jump off the page. Full of Disney references and magic, this is the perfect read for any Disney fan.
For Disney superfan Madison, the chance to spend spring break at Disney’s newest resort would be a dream come true. When she ends up being selected as a winner in the company’s contest, but getting dumped by her girlfriend who was supposed to accompany her just before, she recruits her best friend Lanie to join her instead. However, once Madison and Lanie arrive at the island, cracks in their friendship begin to show. The girls can barely find time to spend together, and Madison finds herself causing a little too much chaos at the resort. As their time on the island comes to an end, Madison and Lanie must discover more about themselves and each other, while also navigating their own cinematic romances.
❀ INTERESTING CHARACTERS
Madison and Lanie are both interesting characters, and I loved their opposite personalities. Madison knows virtually every Disney fact, and she proves herself to be a great problem solver throughout the book. Lanie, on the other hand, is more shy and studious and is unaware of most of the Disney lore. I especially felt for Lanie’s character, as she uses the trip as a chance to take a break from her mother, who pushes her to become a doctor. While Lanie isn’t sure this is the right path for her, she doesn’t have a clear alternative in mind. Both Madison and Lanie are relatable college-aged women, and I loved the realistic dilemmas they face as the story progresses.
❀ VIVID DESCRIPTIONS
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the development of the island itself. As part of the trip, each of the winners gets to choose a Disney character to become over the course of spring break, including dressing up and re-enacting some of the most iconic Disney scenes. Reading about each character’s special moment is so intriguing, and each day’s activities are so vividly described. The author has truly thought of everything, from architecture to food, which makes the island feel like a real place.
❀ A UNIQUE READ
Happily Ever Island by Crystal Cestari is a unique read about friendship and finding oneself. I loved the idea of becoming a Disney character for a week, and both of the main characters are relatable. The level of detail the author uses to bring the island to life is truly impressive, bringing even more magic to the story. This one is, admittedly, pretty cheesy, but once you embrace this, it’s such an entertaining read!
Happily Ever Island by Crystal Cestari is an inventive story about a spring break trip to Disney’s newest resort. I loved reading about the characters becoming a Disney character of their choice, and both of the main characters are relatable. The activities at the resort are described in detail, which makes Happily Ever Island jump off the page. Full of Disney references and magic, this is the perfect read for any Disney fan.
For Disney superfan Madison, the chance to spend spring break at Disney’s newest resort would be a dream come true. When she ends up being selected as a winner in the company’s contest, but getting dumped by her girlfriend who was supposed to accompany her just before, she recruits her best friend Lanie to join her instead. However, once Madison and Lanie arrive at the island, cracks in their friendship begin to show. The girls can barely find time to spend together, and Madison finds herself causing a little too much chaos at the resort. As their time on the island comes to an end, Madison and Lanie must discover more about themselves and each other, while also navigating their own cinematic romances.
❀ INTERESTING CHARACTERS
Madison and Lanie are both interesting characters, and I loved their opposite personalities. Madison knows virtually every Disney fact, and she proves herself to be a great problem solver throughout the book. Lanie, on the other hand, is more shy and studious and is unaware of most of the Disney lore. I especially felt for Lanie’s character, as she uses the trip as a chance to take a break from her mother, who pushes her to become a doctor. While Lanie isn’t sure this is the right path for her, she doesn’t have a clear alternative in mind. Both Madison and Lanie are relatable college-aged women, and I loved the realistic dilemmas they face as the story progresses.
❀ VIVID DESCRIPTIONS
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the development of the island itself. As part of the trip, each of the winners gets to choose a Disney character to become over the course of spring break, including dressing up and re-enacting some of the most iconic Disney scenes. Reading about each character’s special moment is so intriguing, and each day’s activities are so vividly described. The author has truly thought of everything, from architecture to food, which makes the island feel like a real place.
❀ A UNIQUE READ
Happily Ever Island by Crystal Cestari is a unique read about friendship and finding oneself. I loved the idea of becoming a Disney character for a week, and both of the main characters are relatable. The level of detail the author uses to bring the island to life is truly impressive, bringing even more magic to the story. This one is, admittedly, pretty cheesy, but once you embrace this, it’s such an entertaining read!
September 7, 2022
A cute and fun read! Bought this one because it had a character named Lanie, and Lanie was definitely my fave of the two main characters so love that!
March 28, 2024
This is an example of a YA that is simply not for me...
June 18, 2022
In Happily Ever Island, university freshman and Disney fanatic Madison wins a trip to the launch week of the newest Disney resort, a kind of live-action role play island in the Florida Keys where guests can live out their Disney fantasies. After being dumped by her girlfriend Tessa, Madison decides to take her best friend, the ambitiously academic Lanie, along for the trip. Madison arrives at the island prepped to play Cinderella, her favorite Disney character, while Lanie is playing Merida -- a role chosen by Tessa, but which Madison thinks will be perfect for Lanie. But once on the island, the two women's storylines diverge: Madison catches feelings for a cast member named Val, and she realizes that most of Cinderella's storyline involves doing chores (it doesn't help that her 'stepmother' is a fellow guest who takes LARPing very seriously), while Lanie finds herself loosening up from the stress of school and hanging out with 'Prince Charming' at many of the island's activities.
The pros: the characters are very cute, the book is stuffed with Disney references for Disney lovers, and the light-hearted romance and plot make the novel fizz by in a cotton-candy fluff of Disney dreams. It's a cute, YA-style romance novel with a Disney flair.
The cons: I just couldn't quite suspend my disbelief enough to think that anything about this island would actually run the way that it runs. There's no way that Disney would make a profit on this thing given the high level of detail and the relatively few guests it accommodates. It's like a cruise ship, Castaway Key, and the Star Wars hotel rolled into one, but with more detail and moving parts. I think this inability to suspend disbelief isn't helped by the fact that, really, the closest thing to this island that Disney actually has is the new Star Wars hotel -- and having witnessed how that was rolled out makes me question literally everything about the roll-out of this fictional resort.
First of all, the guests have won a FREE week on this island for the first week 'soft launch.' They literally had to fill out forms with choices of which character they wanted to play and then Disney created costumes TO THEIR MEASUREMENTS for them to wear for the week. That would cost so much money for Disney. What would the actual cost of this island be for paying guests??? Plus, I can't imagine all the angry people who didn't get their first choice of character for the week, especially once they ARE paying guests. Then, when they get to the island, their cell phones are taken so that no one can take photos or video for the week -- this was apparently not given as a condition prior to their arrival, because they're all shocked -- and Madison thinks it makes sense they don't want their first week on social media (so I guess later guests will get to keep their cell phones, but still). I call bullshit: if it were really a test run first week, it would be cast members only to work out kinks. If it were a soft-launch with guests, it wouldn't be a FREE full week, but a 'taster' of a day or two and a couple of hero moments and they'd want it ALL OVER social media. Plus, those guests wouldn't be random college students, but Disney influencers and press. Also, I doubt they'd let Madison swap out Lanie for Tessa at the last moment when they'd already sewn a wardrobe to fit Tessa -- seems like they'd have a list of runners-up for this contest.
Moreover, the whole thing just doesn't seem to work: Madison has signed up for activities like a Pocahontas Canoe ride and an Arial Snorkle lesson, but her 'stepmom' won't let her out of the house because of chores. Like, wtaf? How do you keep the hard-core LARPers from ruining other people's vacations, but also keep them happy with the LARP they paid for? Then the 'hero' moments where guests act out scenes from the films: it seems like there's no actual rehearsal or prep for these things when, in fact, they involve very rigorous bits of theatricality that could be dangerous to attempt without any kind of rehearsal. The liability on this thing is through the roof! Also, it seemed like moments happened that other guests didn't witness, so what's the pay-off for Disney? Like, Cinderella's transformation moment was with Madison and the cast member playing the fairy godmother only -- no one else watching -- but the description of it must have cost Disney thousands of dollars. But some moments were scheduled and witnessed by everyone? It was so confusing. Especially as, according to Madison, there's no photo package available! Yeah. Right. Disney has photo packages available for EVERYTHING -- this isn't some unique good idea that's going to blow management's sock's off and get them to offer Madison a job as a Disney cast member.
Then Madison's romance with a cast member named Val -- I just kept thinking that Madison was going to get Val fired. I'm sure Disney has a strict policy against Adventure Guides striking up romantic/sexual relationships with guests while on Disney vacations, yet here's Val kissing Madison in front of all of the other guests while she's on the clock! AHHH. NO. And she took Madison backstage on SEVERAL occasions, which would be a HUGE violation of company policy. And then, the island has utilidors? Like the tunnels under the Magic Kingdom. Utilidors. ON A BARRIER ISLAND. Feels like a flood risk. Plus, I can't stop thinking about the cost.
The whole novel I just kept thinking of that Knives Out gif with Daniel Craig: 'It makes no damn sense. Compels me, though.'
The pros: the characters are very cute, the book is stuffed with Disney references for Disney lovers, and the light-hearted romance and plot make the novel fizz by in a cotton-candy fluff of Disney dreams. It's a cute, YA-style romance novel with a Disney flair.
The cons: I just couldn't quite suspend my disbelief enough to think that anything about this island would actually run the way that it runs. There's no way that Disney would make a profit on this thing given the high level of detail and the relatively few guests it accommodates. It's like a cruise ship, Castaway Key, and the Star Wars hotel rolled into one, but with more detail and moving parts. I think this inability to suspend disbelief isn't helped by the fact that, really, the closest thing to this island that Disney actually has is the new Star Wars hotel -- and having witnessed how that was rolled out makes me question literally everything about the roll-out of this fictional resort.
First of all, the guests have won a FREE week on this island for the first week 'soft launch.' They literally had to fill out forms with choices of which character they wanted to play and then Disney created costumes TO THEIR MEASUREMENTS for them to wear for the week. That would cost so much money for Disney. What would the actual cost of this island be for paying guests??? Plus, I can't imagine all the angry people who didn't get their first choice of character for the week, especially once they ARE paying guests. Then, when they get to the island, their cell phones are taken so that no one can take photos or video for the week -- this was apparently not given as a condition prior to their arrival, because they're all shocked -- and Madison thinks it makes sense they don't want their first week on social media (so I guess later guests will get to keep their cell phones, but still). I call bullshit: if it were really a test run first week, it would be cast members only to work out kinks. If it were a soft-launch with guests, it wouldn't be a FREE full week, but a 'taster' of a day or two and a couple of hero moments and they'd want it ALL OVER social media. Plus, those guests wouldn't be random college students, but Disney influencers and press. Also, I doubt they'd let Madison swap out Lanie for Tessa at the last moment when they'd already sewn a wardrobe to fit Tessa -- seems like they'd have a list of runners-up for this contest.
Moreover, the whole thing just doesn't seem to work: Madison has signed up for activities like a Pocahontas Canoe ride and an Arial Snorkle lesson, but her 'stepmom' won't let her out of the house because of chores. Like, wtaf? How do you keep the hard-core LARPers from ruining other people's vacations, but also keep them happy with the LARP they paid for? Then the 'hero' moments where guests act out scenes from the films: it seems like there's no actual rehearsal or prep for these things when, in fact, they involve very rigorous bits of theatricality that could be dangerous to attempt without any kind of rehearsal. The liability on this thing is through the roof! Also, it seemed like moments happened that other guests didn't witness, so what's the pay-off for Disney? Like, Cinderella's transformation moment was with Madison and the cast member playing the fairy godmother only -- no one else watching -- but the description of it must have cost Disney thousands of dollars. But some moments were scheduled and witnessed by everyone? It was so confusing. Especially as, according to Madison, there's no photo package available! Yeah. Right. Disney has photo packages available for EVERYTHING -- this isn't some unique good idea that's going to blow management's sock's off and get them to offer Madison a job as a Disney cast member.
Then Madison's romance with a cast member named Val -- I just kept thinking that Madison was going to get Val fired. I'm sure Disney has a strict policy against Adventure Guides striking up romantic/sexual relationships with guests while on Disney vacations, yet here's Val kissing Madison in front of all of the other guests while she's on the clock! AHHH. NO. And she took Madison backstage on SEVERAL occasions, which would be a HUGE violation of company policy. And then, the island has utilidors? Like the tunnels under the Magic Kingdom. Utilidors. ON A BARRIER ISLAND. Feels like a flood risk. Plus, I can't stop thinking about the cost.
The whole novel I just kept thinking of that Knives Out gif with Daniel Craig: 'It makes no damn sense. Compels me, though.'
July 1, 2022
3.5 Stars
This was a real dream come true for every Disney fan (like myself), it's really similar to Disney Cruise if you want to live a similar experience
The story is about two friends, Madison and Laine, Madison LOVED everything Disney and Laine doesn't know the first thing about it, but wit a twist of fate they win two tickets to Happily Ever Island, an exclusive and immersive resort where you choose any character from Disney and you get to live it!!, they provide you with costumes, food and big hero moments !!!!!!
Madison chooses Cinderella, and Laine choses Merida, and the adventure begins
I have to say, I really wanted more romantic moments between Laine and prince charming and less focus and Madison, this book sparked a question .. who would I choose ?
I thought hard about it .. and I chose either ( Mulan, or the swooning ladies of Gaston ) they are total opposites but I imagine I will have fun being them LOL
nice read ..
بس يا جماعة حطوا ببالكم وحدة من البنات تحب بنات .. إذا ما تبون تقرون هالأمور ما أنصحكم بهالكتاب لأنهم وايد مركزين على هالشخصية
This was a real dream come true for every Disney fan (like myself), it's really similar to Disney Cruise if you want to live a similar experience
The story is about two friends, Madison and Laine, Madison LOVED everything Disney and Laine doesn't know the first thing about it, but wit a twist of fate they win two tickets to Happily Ever Island, an exclusive and immersive resort where you choose any character from Disney and you get to live it!!, they provide you with costumes, food and big hero moments !!!!!!
Madison chooses Cinderella, and Laine choses Merida, and the adventure begins
I have to say, I really wanted more romantic moments between Laine and prince charming and less focus and Madison, this book sparked a question .. who would I choose ?
I thought hard about it .. and I chose either ( Mulan, or the swooning ladies of Gaston ) they are total opposites but I imagine I will have fun being them LOL
nice read ..
بس يا جماعة حطوا ببالكم وحدة من البنات تحب بنات .. إذا ما تبون تقرون هالأمور ما أنصحكم بهالكتاب لأنهم وايد مركزين على هالشخصية
July 10, 2022
This was over-the-top, cheesy, pixie-dusted-cuteness overload.
As a former Disney College Program cast member myself, I absolutely lost it when I learned that a book about a Disney Resort cosplay/larp paradise actually existed--and my curiosity demanded I read it. Unfortunately, I, a cosplaying, Disney-loving nerd, actually found it too absurd to fully enjoy. I do truly believe you should wholeheartedly pursue the things in life that make you happy, as Madison does in this book. Still, I think the Disney Corporation worship that fuels the plot was a little much for me.
If you are able to totally suspend your disbelief and not at all ponder the impossible logistics of Happily Ever Island, this is a fun, sweet little read for Disney fans. It is absolute, total wish-fulfillment that actually did make me want to put on Belle's ball gown and play pretend on an island at 27 years old. At the same time, though, I spent the whole book thinking "Ok, but animatronics can't DO that" and "Disney is magical, but it's not THAT magical," and "HOW IS THAT LEGAL?!" When plates started dancing at the "Be Our Guest" dinner and an ACTUAL raven appeared to follow the woman playing Maleficent around, I thought the plot was turning into "Haha as it turns out, Happily Ever Island isn't JUST a resort--it's REALLY magical!" and I think I would've appreciated that twist more.
It also kind of bothered me that it was SO Pro-Disney to the point it felt like I was reading a really long ad for the Disney College Program. Madison goes to Disneyland or Disney World every single year, it absolutely changed her life, her entire personality is built upon it, she owns a ton of pins and mouse ears, etc. etc. In reality, Disney is EXPENSIVE. I don't think Madison ever acknowledges that she was privileged to be able to go, or that she understands that total obsession with a fandom or corporation can become unhealthy. She does end up using her love for Disney to steer her onto a career path, which is great! But the constant Disney worshipping did prevent me from fully enjoying the story.
However, if you can set aside all of that, it's a fun, feel-good story about friendship and love and finding yourself. The plot and the characters are pretty surface-level, but I did relate a lot to Lanie, Madison's best friend. I thought her character was much more realistically written and she annoyed me a lot less. As someone with anxiety and a similar personality type, her thought processes made total sense to me. I also found myself enjoying the romance--even though it was a little too convenient and insta-lovey--and actually liked a lot of the side characters.
(However, what the heck was up with the Jared hating?! He didn't do anything to be treated with such disdain aside from being a bit too enthusiastic about his job. His only character trait was "He's too loud." Um. And we're supposed to hate him because his volume is a notch too high? I felt genuinely bad for him the whole time and I hope he got to keep his job).
As a former Disney College Program cast member myself, I absolutely lost it when I learned that a book about a Disney Resort cosplay/larp paradise actually existed--and my curiosity demanded I read it. Unfortunately, I, a cosplaying, Disney-loving nerd, actually found it too absurd to fully enjoy. I do truly believe you should wholeheartedly pursue the things in life that make you happy, as Madison does in this book. Still, I think the Disney Corporation worship that fuels the plot was a little much for me.
If you are able to totally suspend your disbelief and not at all ponder the impossible logistics of Happily Ever Island, this is a fun, sweet little read for Disney fans. It is absolute, total wish-fulfillment that actually did make me want to put on Belle's ball gown and play pretend on an island at 27 years old. At the same time, though, I spent the whole book thinking "Ok, but animatronics can't DO that" and "Disney is magical, but it's not THAT magical," and "HOW IS THAT LEGAL?!" When plates started dancing at the "Be Our Guest" dinner and an ACTUAL raven appeared to follow the woman playing Maleficent around, I thought the plot was turning into "Haha as it turns out, Happily Ever Island isn't JUST a resort--it's REALLY magical!" and I think I would've appreciated that twist more.
It also kind of bothered me that it was SO Pro-Disney to the point it felt like I was reading a really long ad for the Disney College Program. Madison goes to Disneyland or Disney World every single year, it absolutely changed her life, her entire personality is built upon it, she owns a ton of pins and mouse ears, etc. etc. In reality, Disney is EXPENSIVE. I don't think Madison ever acknowledges that she was privileged to be able to go, or that she understands that total obsession with a fandom or corporation can become unhealthy. She does end up using her love for Disney to steer her onto a career path, which is great! But the constant Disney worshipping did prevent me from fully enjoying the story.
However, if you can set aside all of that, it's a fun, feel-good story about friendship and love and finding yourself. The plot and the characters are pretty surface-level, but I did relate a lot to Lanie, Madison's best friend. I thought her character was much more realistically written and she annoyed me a lot less. As someone with anxiety and a similar personality type, her thought processes made total sense to me. I also found myself enjoying the romance--even though it was a little too convenient and insta-lovey--and actually liked a lot of the side characters.
(However, what the heck was up with the Jared hating?! He didn't do anything to be treated with such disdain aside from being a bit too enthusiastic about his job. His only character trait was "He's too loud." Um. And we're supposed to hate him because his volume is a notch too high? I felt genuinely bad for him the whole time and I hope he got to keep his job).
June 27, 2022
Cute Disney cheese. But it was a little over the top cheese for me. I like how this was sort of Ren Faire meets Disney, but both girls were too annoying for me to fully get into it. The "conflict" for each was also kind of stupid - Lanie couldn't be with Prince Charming because her lesbian best friend needed her big moment? Madison couldn't admit she liked Val because she wanted to be on her own for a little bit? I guess it really didn't matter though because both "conflicts" were taken care of in 5 minutes.
I really like the idea of Happily Ever Island - where avid Disney fans can apply to be their favorite characters and live out their "hero moments." I actually think that's fantastic. But unfortunately, the execution missed the mark for me.
I really like the idea of Happily Ever Island - where avid Disney fans can apply to be their favorite characters and live out their "hero moments." I actually think that's fantastic. But unfortunately, the execution missed the mark for me.
July 15, 2023
If you’re a Disney lover than this book is definitely for you! Overall this was a very fun and magical read. ✨ I’m a sucker for the imagineering that goes into Disney parks so I was super excited to see this come to life on this adults only island. I knocked off a few stars simply because I found the main conflicts to be somewhat childish. Nevertheless, still a fun read if you’re looking for something very light and easy.
September 22, 2025
This was painful.
June 22, 2022
It’s corny and magical and I loved it because I love Disney. And I love a happy ending.
June 23, 2022
Why did I love this book so much??? I guess because I saw so much of myself in Madison's personality and how she portrays her love of Disney, it was just so heartwarming and fun! I loved every single character and every single reference. Overall I would say that I loved just about every minute of this book. Reading this I was thinking of a Renaissance Faire meets Disney Island. I would love an opportunity like the main characters got--to basically live in the lives of any character of their choice. Singing, dancing, and romance included!
January 31, 2023
The main character is the worst kind of Disney adult. The story is not compelling which doesn’t help when the characters are so unlikeable. Reads like bad FanFiction.
September 10, 2024
My Disney loving heart got swept away in the magic of this read! I want to go to Happily Ever Island SO BAD. I adored this book and look forward to reading it again at some point.
The way Disney was integrated into the story was so perfect — what a story setting! And the way the Princess’ story lines fit the characters. The details were there, the fun was there, the magic was there! Lanie was very in her head, but very real and it was nice to read about college aged students without it being a typical spicy New Adult book. Nothing wrong with those, but I was more Madison than any sort of rom com leading when I was in college. Both of them questioning what they want to do with their lives on different ways was so on point for me & my friends college experiences.
The romance was sweet & magical. I loved the way the story brought diversity simply & seamlessly to some of the older Disney stories we all know and love.
If you love Disney, pick this one up!!!
The way Disney was integrated into the story was so perfect — what a story setting! And the way the Princess’ story lines fit the characters. The details were there, the fun was there, the magic was there! Lanie was very in her head, but very real and it was nice to read about college aged students without it being a typical spicy New Adult book. Nothing wrong with those, but I was more Madison than any sort of rom com leading when I was in college. Both of them questioning what they want to do with their lives on different ways was so on point for me & my friends college experiences.
The romance was sweet & magical. I loved the way the story brought diversity simply & seamlessly to some of the older Disney stories we all know and love.
If you love Disney, pick this one up!!!
October 26, 2022
I seriously don’t know why this took so long to read, ok not too long, 4 days, but most times I finish way faster than that, I’m sorry, it’s a 3.5 it didn’t really have anything to do with like genres/sub genres, I just… the back cover seemed more interesting then the actual book, like.. when i was first reading it I kept spacing out between pages, so around page 100, got better, so yes, 3.5 still a good read
July 22, 2022
This book is EXTREMELY cheesy, like the cheesiest book I’ve ever read and I love Disney lol. It’s a fun quick little read though if you love Disney.
November 16, 2022
J’ai adoré l’univers Disney, les descriptions de lieux, les coulisses, les personnages même si Madison pouvait être agaçante parfois. Je m’attendais pas du tout à une lecture comme celle ci, en tant que grande fan de Disney je recommande !
April 11, 2024
I would love to actually go to this is island in real life. The concept of Disney bounding is definitely new to me haha. Although the story was kinda predictable, I did enjoy the “becoming Merida” plot, proving there’s always room for a little fun and adventure in your life.
July 9, 2022
So stinking cute and so fun!! For any Disney lover, this is a book you have to read. The story is sweet, but the atmosphere makes it. I wish this island was real! Disney needs to get on this asap! I enjoyed every second.
July 14, 2022
The premise sounded very interested and the cover intrigued me so I decided to give this book a try.
The story mainly follows Madison and Lanie.
I struggled to connect with Madison. Madison’s character was a bit overwhelming. Lanie is Madison’s bestie and they work together. Lanie seems like she has her life figured out. There is a lot of inner monologue. The story for me-picked up when the girls finally made it to Florida.
Things I enjoyed, were when the girls were trying to ignore a certain scene while arguing. It was hilarious.
The vivid descriptions of the island. I absolutely loved it!!
I really enjoyed seeing how Madison’s character matured.
Lanie finally letting go.
I really enjoyed the narrator, Reba Buhr, she breathed life into these characters and nailed their voices. Her performance was great.
If you’re looking for a bit of Bibbidi-bobbidi-boo, consider grabbing this book.
Special thanks to Disney Audiobooks, and Netgalley for the ALC.
Audiobook 5 stars
The story mainly follows Madison and Lanie.
I struggled to connect with Madison. Madison’s character was a bit overwhelming. Lanie is Madison’s bestie and they work together. Lanie seems like she has her life figured out. There is a lot of inner monologue. The story for me-picked up when the girls finally made it to Florida.
Things I enjoyed, were when the girls were trying to ignore a certain scene while arguing. It was hilarious.
The vivid descriptions of the island. I absolutely loved it!!
I really enjoyed seeing how Madison’s character matured.
Lanie finally letting go.
I really enjoyed the narrator, Reba Buhr, she breathed life into these characters and nailed their voices. Her performance was great.
If you’re looking for a bit of Bibbidi-bobbidi-boo, consider grabbing this book.
Special thanks to Disney Audiobooks, and Netgalley for the ALC.
Audiobook 5 stars
October 13, 2022
"When did celebrating the things you love becomes childish? Was I supposed to switch off my whimsy the day I became a legal adult?"
If you're looking for a fun, lighthearted contemporary romance young adult novel, look no further. Bonus points if you love Disney movies and want to read about a new fictional resort - this is the book for you. Madison is a hopeless romantic and she is obsessed with everything Disney. When her girlfriend dumps her right before her Spring Break trip to the new Happily Ever Island, Madison is distraught. You see, the new resort needed to test out all of the new scenes on the island, so everyone in attendance had to write an essay about why they wanted to play a certain character while they spent a week on the island. Madison has been cast as the beautiful Cinderella and can't imagine giving up her spot to visit this new resort. Luckily for her, her best friend Lanie reluctantly agrees to step in at the last minute, taking the place of Merida. Lanie knows the bare minimum about Disney but is willing to dive right into the world of being a badass princess while navigating all the intricacies of being on an island devoted to making all the magic of Disney movies come alive.
If I'm being honest, I didn't have very high expectations for this book going in. I wasn't expecting it to blow me out of the water or anything and I think that helped me enjoy the book more than I thought I might. I loved seeing what life would be like for these average Disney fans as they worked to encompass everything about their assigned Disney character. I loved seeing all of the activities that took place for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Frozen. I also enjoyed both Madison and Lanie's characters. Seeing them learn and grow both together and apart from each other as they spend a magical Spring Break on Happily Ever Island was a lot of fun. This is a genuinely fun way to spend several days.
Now I wish there was a real Happily Ever Island to visit so I can live my dreams of having a giant library and dishes that clean themselves.
TW: panic attack, death
**Thank you to NetGalley and Disney Hyperion for the advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
If you're looking for a fun, lighthearted contemporary romance young adult novel, look no further. Bonus points if you love Disney movies and want to read about a new fictional resort - this is the book for you. Madison is a hopeless romantic and she is obsessed with everything Disney. When her girlfriend dumps her right before her Spring Break trip to the new Happily Ever Island, Madison is distraught. You see, the new resort needed to test out all of the new scenes on the island, so everyone in attendance had to write an essay about why they wanted to play a certain character while they spent a week on the island. Madison has been cast as the beautiful Cinderella and can't imagine giving up her spot to visit this new resort. Luckily for her, her best friend Lanie reluctantly agrees to step in at the last minute, taking the place of Merida. Lanie knows the bare minimum about Disney but is willing to dive right into the world of being a badass princess while navigating all the intricacies of being on an island devoted to making all the magic of Disney movies come alive.
If I'm being honest, I didn't have very high expectations for this book going in. I wasn't expecting it to blow me out of the water or anything and I think that helped me enjoy the book more than I thought I might. I loved seeing what life would be like for these average Disney fans as they worked to encompass everything about their assigned Disney character. I loved seeing all of the activities that took place for The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and Frozen. I also enjoyed both Madison and Lanie's characters. Seeing them learn and grow both together and apart from each other as they spend a magical Spring Break on Happily Ever Island was a lot of fun. This is a genuinely fun way to spend several days.
Now I wish there was a real Happily Ever Island to visit so I can live my dreams of having a giant library and dishes that clean themselves.
TW: panic attack, death
**Thank you to NetGalley and Disney Hyperion for the advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 12, 2022
A copy of this novel was provided by Scholastic Australia for review.
Happily Ever Island is a book that I absolutely needed in my life as soon as I found out about it! A book about a new Disney Park where you get to be a Disney character for a week and it’s queer? My HEART SOARED.
And I’m happy to say Happily Ever Island did not disappoint. I don’t often read fun books, and Happily Ever Island was a lot of fun. It follows two narrators: Madison – the Disney fan who wins a competition to be one of the first guests at the new immersive Disney Park, and Lanie – Madison’s best friend who gets reluctantly dragged along after Madison’s girlfriend dumps her.
I really liked reading chapters from both narrators because each girl gave something different to the story. I adored Madison’s absolute and never-ending love for Disney, and I related a lot to Lanie’s anxiety. Each girl, while having a lot of fun at the new park, was also going through some inner turmoil about their futures. Madison isn’t sure what she wants to study or what career she wants to have after college. Lanie has been on the path to becoming a doctor for as long as she can remember, but what she doesn’t know is if she actually wants to be one. I think both of these things are relatable to readers of the same age (and above). Not everyone has their future perfectly figured out, and I liked the exploration of that in Happily Ever Island!
One of the best aspects of this book was the park itself. I did have to suspend my disbelief because the logistics of it all made little to no sense, but the idea is just so magical I didn’t really mind. Being a Disney character for a week -wearing their clothes, living in their castles, experiencing one of their iconic “hero” moments? I need to go there *crying heart eyes* From the blurb, I thought that Lanie might have been a bit of a grey cloud, but she ended up really enjoying her time at the park, which was really lovely.
Both girls ended up having really sweet romances in this book! I liked both love interests, and thought they complemented each girl’s personalities really well. Val is a no-fuss, down to earth girl which meshed well with Madison’s exuberant, head in the clouds demeanour. Prince Charming was kind and considerate, which really helped Lanie when her anxiety made something difficult for her. I enjoyed reading about these sweet and supportive relationships!
All in all, Happily Ever Island is perfect for Disney fans – it has everything you could want: copious Disney references, recreated moments from the movies, sweet romance, and lots of fun!
© 2022, Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity. All rights reserved.
trigger warning: parental abandonment, anxiety/panic attacks
Happily Ever Island is a book that I absolutely needed in my life as soon as I found out about it! A book about a new Disney Park where you get to be a Disney character for a week and it’s queer? My HEART SOARED.
And I’m happy to say Happily Ever Island did not disappoint. I don’t often read fun books, and Happily Ever Island was a lot of fun. It follows two narrators: Madison – the Disney fan who wins a competition to be one of the first guests at the new immersive Disney Park, and Lanie – Madison’s best friend who gets reluctantly dragged along after Madison’s girlfriend dumps her.
I really liked reading chapters from both narrators because each girl gave something different to the story. I adored Madison’s absolute and never-ending love for Disney, and I related a lot to Lanie’s anxiety. Each girl, while having a lot of fun at the new park, was also going through some inner turmoil about their futures. Madison isn’t sure what she wants to study or what career she wants to have after college. Lanie has been on the path to becoming a doctor for as long as she can remember, but what she doesn’t know is if she actually wants to be one. I think both of these things are relatable to readers of the same age (and above). Not everyone has their future perfectly figured out, and I liked the exploration of that in Happily Ever Island!
One of the best aspects of this book was the park itself. I did have to suspend my disbelief because the logistics of it all made little to no sense, but the idea is just so magical I didn’t really mind. Being a Disney character for a week -wearing their clothes, living in their castles, experiencing one of their iconic “hero” moments? I need to go there *crying heart eyes* From the blurb, I thought that Lanie might have been a bit of a grey cloud, but she ended up really enjoying her time at the park, which was really lovely.
Both girls ended up having really sweet romances in this book! I liked both love interests, and thought they complemented each girl’s personalities really well. Val is a no-fuss, down to earth girl which meshed well with Madison’s exuberant, head in the clouds demeanour. Prince Charming was kind and considerate, which really helped Lanie when her anxiety made something difficult for her. I enjoyed reading about these sweet and supportive relationships!
All in all, Happily Ever Island is perfect for Disney fans – it has everything you could want: copious Disney references, recreated moments from the movies, sweet romance, and lots of fun!
© 2022, Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity. All rights reserved.
trigger warning: parental abandonment, anxiety/panic attacks
April 25, 2022
NA/LGBTQ+
Madison and Lanie are best friends experiencing their first year of college. They are as different as can be. Madison is attracted to other women and is all about glitter and color and happiness and of course all things Disney. Lanie is a super serious pre-med student. She is very shy and socially awkward.
Madison's latest girl crush breaks up with her the day she finds out she won an exclusive prize. Disney is opening a new attraction called Happily Ever Island where guests choose their favorite character and get to spend the week as that character. It is the first week of operations and Madison and guest get to travel to Florida for this once in a lifetime experience. Madison takes Lanie hoping that it will do wonders for her best friend.
Madison is of course, Cinderella, and Lanie gets to be Merida from "Brave". Right away Madison is attracted to one of the concierge attendants- Val, and leaves Lanie to flounder on her own. Unexpectedly, Lanie meets Prince Charming and they strike up a friendship.
The rest of the novel is about both ladies learning to trust themselves and forge a path to their futures with lots and lots of Disney references, scenes, and characters. It would be a good storyline if there was any depth to it. The characters need to get their Happily Ever After - sure, but even Disney makes the princesses experience something dark or gritty first. Ultimately, it felt pretty juvenile.
Thank you to the publisher and Swampfox Bookstore for my ARC of this book.
Madison and Lanie are best friends experiencing their first year of college. They are as different as can be. Madison is attracted to other women and is all about glitter and color and happiness and of course all things Disney. Lanie is a super serious pre-med student. She is very shy and socially awkward.
Madison's latest girl crush breaks up with her the day she finds out she won an exclusive prize. Disney is opening a new attraction called Happily Ever Island where guests choose their favorite character and get to spend the week as that character. It is the first week of operations and Madison and guest get to travel to Florida for this once in a lifetime experience. Madison takes Lanie hoping that it will do wonders for her best friend.
Madison is of course, Cinderella, and Lanie gets to be Merida from "Brave". Right away Madison is attracted to one of the concierge attendants- Val, and leaves Lanie to flounder on her own. Unexpectedly, Lanie meets Prince Charming and they strike up a friendship.
The rest of the novel is about both ladies learning to trust themselves and forge a path to their futures with lots and lots of Disney references, scenes, and characters. It would be a good storyline if there was any depth to it. The characters need to get their Happily Ever After - sure, but even Disney makes the princesses experience something dark or gritty first. Ultimately, it felt pretty juvenile.
Thank you to the publisher and Swampfox Bookstore for my ARC of this book.
June 13, 2022
I have never felt so connected to a character in a book. Happily Ever Island is an absolutely magical story about two friends and their vacation filled with self discovery.
Madison is a Disney dreamer. She wears her heart on her sleeve, is obsessively in love with love and believes there is still magic in the world. She entered a contest to win an inaugural trip to Happily Ever Island, Disney’s brand new immersive fairy tale experience. She was supposed to go with her girlfriend, Tessa, however she was dumped literally 60 seconds before getting the email saying she’s won. Instead, she brings along her bestie Lanie - a somewhat anxiety ridden premed student who doesn’t know the first thing about Disney. The unlikely best friends set off on the vacation together, but through various circumstances, spend time apart and learn more about themselves along the way.
As I said above, I have never felt so strongly that I connected with a character. I was Madison for most of my life. I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. I had no super, special talent that set me apart from everyone else. I was a walking compendium of Disney knowledge, but beyond that? I was so average. Seeing a character that doesn’t have it all figured out and is open about this was amazing. While Madison does come off as childish and hyper obsessive at points she’s charming and passionate. Seeing her grow through this book was an absolute joy.
Lanie on the other hand, had a set path and was resolutely walking forward, come hell or high water. Even from the beginning you could see her struggle with her anxiety and with whether what she’s doing in life is what she actually wants or if it was just something decided for her. She also goes through a great deal of growth and again, I was delighted to see it.
The details of this book are amazing. The end pages are a map of the island and I thought that was very clever and appreciated. The author does an excellent job of describing the island and giving you a sense of space and wonder, while also explaining the logistics of how these things run. I enjoyed seeing how various ‘hero moments’ were explained, giving them credibility and making them seem magical but not impossible.
I also loved all the Disney tidbits through the novel. And I’m sure right now you’re thinking ok Ashley, we get it, you like Disney. Which, yes, yes I do. But there were so many little nods to Disney lore and trivia that it made me grin.
This book is everything I have ever wanted in a young adult novel. A Disney inspired fantasy island with personal growth and a character I connected with. It’s a perfect read for Disney fans and the young at heart. Seriously. I loved this book.
Madison is a Disney dreamer. She wears her heart on her sleeve, is obsessively in love with love and believes there is still magic in the world. She entered a contest to win an inaugural trip to Happily Ever Island, Disney’s brand new immersive fairy tale experience. She was supposed to go with her girlfriend, Tessa, however she was dumped literally 60 seconds before getting the email saying she’s won. Instead, she brings along her bestie Lanie - a somewhat anxiety ridden premed student who doesn’t know the first thing about Disney. The unlikely best friends set off on the vacation together, but through various circumstances, spend time apart and learn more about themselves along the way.
As I said above, I have never felt so strongly that I connected with a character. I was Madison for most of my life. I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. I had no super, special talent that set me apart from everyone else. I was a walking compendium of Disney knowledge, but beyond that? I was so average. Seeing a character that doesn’t have it all figured out and is open about this was amazing. While Madison does come off as childish and hyper obsessive at points she’s charming and passionate. Seeing her grow through this book was an absolute joy.
Lanie on the other hand, had a set path and was resolutely walking forward, come hell or high water. Even from the beginning you could see her struggle with her anxiety and with whether what she’s doing in life is what she actually wants or if it was just something decided for her. She also goes through a great deal of growth and again, I was delighted to see it.
The details of this book are amazing. The end pages are a map of the island and I thought that was very clever and appreciated. The author does an excellent job of describing the island and giving you a sense of space and wonder, while also explaining the logistics of how these things run. I enjoyed seeing how various ‘hero moments’ were explained, giving them credibility and making them seem magical but not impossible.
I also loved all the Disney tidbits through the novel. And I’m sure right now you’re thinking ok Ashley, we get it, you like Disney. Which, yes, yes I do. But there were so many little nods to Disney lore and trivia that it made me grin.
This book is everything I have ever wanted in a young adult novel. A Disney inspired fantasy island with personal growth and a character I connected with. It’s a perfect read for Disney fans and the young at heart. Seriously. I loved this book.
May 26, 2022
Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley and Disney Audiobooks in exchange for an honest review.
So I've watched all the Disney movies, I have a favorite princess (well ok, my answer on that changes, but at any given point I can name one), and I have strong opinions on Aurora's dress (blue, not pink)... but I've only been to a Disney park once in my life and I'll be honest, going back isn't at the top of my list of vacation destinations. With that being said, the idea of a park where I could embody the life of my favorite Disney character and reenact their big hero (or villain) moment sounds like it would be SO much fun. I think Cestari did a really great job with bringing the Disney details to life in HAPPILY EVER ISLAND.
I enjoyed the plot and how the romance aspect played out a little differently than how it looked like it would at the start of the novel. Madison and Lanie are interesting characters on their own and have a good dynamic between them. Their friendship (the good and the bad of it) felt genuine. Overall this was a fun read and a fairly tame romance so it should appeal to a wide range of YA readers - and you don't need to be a super Disney fan to understand or enjoy it either.
It's surprising to see that only one person does the audiobook narration (Reba Buhr) as the voices between Madison and Lanie chapters is SO different... it's a little jarring for example how different Madison's voice is in the Madison POV chapters compared to the Lanie POV chapters I assumed it was two different performers. Given that it was one person I don't understand the director's choice in how each POV was performed.
So I've watched all the Disney movies, I have a favorite princess (well ok, my answer on that changes, but at any given point I can name one), and I have strong opinions on Aurora's dress (blue, not pink)... but I've only been to a Disney park once in my life and I'll be honest, going back isn't at the top of my list of vacation destinations. With that being said, the idea of a park where I could embody the life of my favorite Disney character and reenact their big hero (or villain) moment sounds like it would be SO much fun. I think Cestari did a really great job with bringing the Disney details to life in HAPPILY EVER ISLAND.
I enjoyed the plot and how the romance aspect played out a little differently than how it looked like it would at the start of the novel. Madison and Lanie are interesting characters on their own and have a good dynamic between them. Their friendship (the good and the bad of it) felt genuine. Overall this was a fun read and a fairly tame romance so it should appeal to a wide range of YA readers - and you don't need to be a super Disney fan to understand or enjoy it either.
It's surprising to see that only one person does the audiobook narration (Reba Buhr) as the voices between Madison and Lanie chapters is SO different... it's a little jarring for example how different Madison's voice is in the Madison POV chapters compared to the Lanie POV chapters I assumed it was two different performers. Given that it was one person I don't understand the director's choice in how each POV was performed.
July 11, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley, Disney Hyperion, Disney Publishing Worldwide, and Disney Audiobooks for access to an audiobook and e-ARC of this title.
4★: multiple romances, meet-cutes galore, queer romance, femme friendship as the story base, escapism galore, a cute finding-your-path story (I love college age stories), and fluff! such fluff!
After an unexpected break-up and the sweepstakes win of a lifetime, college best friends Madison & Lanie head off to Disney's newest immersive experience: a luxury island getaway where you spend a full week cosplaying as your favorite Disney character, decked out in full costumed regalia complete with spotlighted "hero moments," where you get to play out your character's most iconic hero (or villain!) moment. A dream come true for Disney super-fan Madison and an appease-her-broken-hearted-best-friend trip for practical Lanie, this book is all precious romance, ridiculous high-jinks, and some great coming-of-age, discovering-your-own-path moments. All complete with queer romance for it's own sake, no coming out drama or straight character queer-bating needed!
I was surprised by how much this story charmed me. There are moments that are slow - I think the beginning takes a bit to pick up - and I was concerned in the first third or so that Madison was going to remain an insufferable character, but the personal growth on the part of both of the MCs is natural and sweet, and the outcomes of the story are the perfect balance of realistic with a bit of Disney magic. A real delight of a book!
4★: multiple romances, meet-cutes galore, queer romance, femme friendship as the story base, escapism galore, a cute finding-your-path story (I love college age stories), and fluff! such fluff!
After an unexpected break-up and the sweepstakes win of a lifetime, college best friends Madison & Lanie head off to Disney's newest immersive experience: a luxury island getaway where you spend a full week cosplaying as your favorite Disney character, decked out in full costumed regalia complete with spotlighted "hero moments," where you get to play out your character's most iconic hero (or villain!) moment. A dream come true for Disney super-fan Madison and an appease-her-broken-hearted-best-friend trip for practical Lanie, this book is all precious romance, ridiculous high-jinks, and some great coming-of-age, discovering-your-own-path moments. All complete with queer romance for it's own sake, no coming out drama or straight character queer-bating needed!
I was surprised by how much this story charmed me. There are moments that are slow - I think the beginning takes a bit to pick up - and I was concerned in the first third or so that Madison was going to remain an insufferable character, but the personal growth on the part of both of the MCs is natural and sweet, and the outcomes of the story are the perfect balance of realistic with a bit of Disney magic. A real delight of a book!
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