Reviews

Disdain: A Cinderella Retelling by M.J. Haag

annettebooksofhopeanddreams's review against another edition

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4.0

Ever since I finished the first book in this series I was really looking forward to the second one and the book was totally worth waiting for and didn't disappoint! Now I've also read the previous series and the prequel, I recognised some familiar spots and characters and that was a really fun experience and gave this book an extra layer.

But, what made this book truly special was the character of Eloise. I love her and how she carries herself, and us, through the story. She learns from her mistakes, she doesn't do things that are too reckless without a solid reason to do so and she often reacts exactly like I would have done. Every time others describe her as intelligent, I nod, because I feel that she truly does the smart thing, even if that sometimes means sitting things out and letting things happen. Maybe she's not a fierce rebel, but I'm sure that her intelligence will win in the end.

Because the plot is really gripping. The elements of the Cinderella story are clearly present and recognisable, but there are so many amazing new layers added that the story still feels fresh and new and exciting. Once I started reading, even though I was very tired, I just wanted to read on and on and on. And now I've closed the book I'm already eagerly waiting for the last book to come out! The elements of the Snow White story are also already cleverly inserted and I can't wait to read Kellen's story!

If you're looking for a nice Cinderella retelling that keeps the spine of the original tale, but still adds a lot of amazing and exciting new things, a little layer of mystery and murder and interesting characters: This is totally the read for you!

kzimm2024's review against another edition

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3.0

More of the same, people controlled by magic and doing deplorable acts. Its a bit much. I know it is supposed to be "dark" but there just was something about this story that did not work. I appreciate "dark" as much as the next gal, this was just annoying/disturbing without the "feels". I guess it may be that I just did not connect with the characters at all.
We see Eloise testing the limits of her captivity and yes, some smart moves.
But overall, this story just frustrated me.
Finishing this series under TDC. (Threat, Duress and Coercion)

allbythebook's review against another edition

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challenging dark emotional mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

stb2012's review against another edition

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5.0

Wow! Just wow!! I don’t even know what to say! I love the retelling of fairytale! Just when I thought I couldn’t get enough she left me hanging! Lol! It was so hard to put down. Cinderella wasn’t one of my favorite Disney fairytales but I love how this book is dark than the classic fairytale! This book is not for younger adults to read. I love Kaven and Eloise!

jzkeen32's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0


Expand filter menu Content Warnings

naiapard's review against another edition

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2.0

I did not like this. Too much talking without an end point. Tantalizing the audience by giving them crumbs to pick them like starving pigeons.

kay_slayerofbooks's review against another edition

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4.0

Okay! The Cinderella and Snow White themes have REALLY come through in this one!

Eloise is killing as a strong Cinderella who isn't just laying down and taking shit! Bad ass throughout the entire book and dealing with a shit ton of misery during the process. Portia and shit and Cecilia can sit on a firecracker

passionatelycurious's review against another edition

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4.0

I didn't read this one immediately after the first and I was kind of confused going back into the series, but once I was refreshed on the characters and what was happening, it was a great addition. This book gets into how awful Eloise's evil step mother and step sisters are, and the ending was a perfect set up to the last book. Can't wait to read the next one.
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