bookliac's review
5.0
This was a really lovely read.
I was intrigued by it being a Rumpelstiltskin retelling and it paid off.
Likeable characters and a hateable villain.
I didn't like the last 10% tho. I haven't read YA in a while and I am not sure if it's a me thing but the relationship between the MCs at the end felt.. off and rushed. The dialogues were a bit cringe (sorry!) and I really didn't need the last few pages. Way too cheesy for me personally.
The characters are the highlight of the books. There are so well developed.
And the cover, this is one of the most beautiful covers I have seen in a while.
World building is a big thing for me and the book hints at a really interesting magic system. But left me with a lot of questions. Tbh this isn't the usual type of book I read and I only came across it because the author makes intriguing tiktoks. Absolutely don't regret reading it and will keep an eye out on more books from this author.
I was intrigued by it being a Rumpelstiltskin retelling and it paid off.
Likeable characters and a hateable villain.
I didn't like the last 10% tho. I haven't read YA in a while and I am not sure if it's a me thing but the relationship between the MCs at the end felt.. off and rushed. The dialogues were a bit cringe (sorry!) and I really didn't need the last few pages. Way too cheesy for me personally.
The characters are the highlight of the books. There are so well developed.
And the cover, this is one of the most beautiful covers I have seen in a while.
World building is a big thing for me and the book hints at a really interesting magic system. But left me with a lot of questions. Tbh this isn't the usual type of book I read and I only came across it because the author makes intriguing tiktoks. Absolutely don't regret reading it and will keep an eye out on more books from this author.
thebookshelfofrat's review
3.0
Really fun retelling of Rumplestiltskin! I usually don’t like urban fantasy, but this was pretty good and I thought the author adapted the fairytale to suit the setting very well. I kind of anticipated the plot twist with regards to the Rumplestiltskin character, but it was still an engaging read and I got through it in a day.
constant2m's review against another edition
5.0
This was my introduction to Selina Fenech, and it was fabulous! It's the story about a girl who used to believe in magic and fairy tales, but quickly learns that magic users are being enslaved and hides her knowledge of it to protect her family. Until her sister develops magical powers. And is found out. She lies to take her sister's place, but then has to keep up the facade around other magic users, despite her utter lack of magical talent. With the help of a ghost, a mentally ill man, and several sort-of friends, Zari attempts to prove her magical abilities and find a way to escape and save her family. It's a delightful story. While several of the outcomes were expected, I was surprised by several of the twists as well. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
sketchai's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
4.5
Interesting combo of modern-day and magic, with characters that are easily relatable. The big bad is a little obvious and one dimensional, but given how short the book was - it worked. Overall, I enjoyed it and finished it in one sitting. If you love fairytales and a sweet romance, this is a book for you.
sashavolesky's review
4.0
I absolutely devoured this book, it was captivating and held my attention the whole time.
I loved Zari and how her character grew and interacted with the others throughout the story and her love and devotion to the people she cares about. Ghost was a genius character and way to capture attention, even though *small spoiler* I found his twist predictable I still found it very enjoyable.
The book moved a bit fast for my taste however would be perfect for readers who enjoy that. The world-building felt a built undeveloped and I’d love to hear more about how the magic folk came to be, how Dorian was truely able to keep them all in his realm and whats it’s like outside of their country.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more by Selina Fenech in the future
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Zari and how her character grew and interacted with the others throughout the story and her love and devotion to the people she cares about. Ghost was a genius character and way to capture attention, even though *small spoiler* I found his twist predictable I still found it very enjoyable.
The book moved a bit fast for my taste however would be perfect for readers who enjoy that. The world-building felt a built undeveloped and I’d love to hear more about how the magic folk came to be, how Dorian was truely able to keep them all in his realm and whats it’s like outside of their country.
Overall I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more by Selina Fenech in the future
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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