Reviews

Happily Ever Island by Crystal Cestari

bekkajmills's review

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3.0

This book was a bit too cheesy for me, but I loved the setting and all the Disney details!

gijane's review

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3.0

ok really bad but like really good?

linren16's review

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funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

anniquevvugt's review

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

1.5

This book feels like you’re reading a fan fiction written by a 12 year old. 
I could see myself liking this book when I was twelve, but also I would still not be reading it with love. 

Not a lot is explained or they don’t make much sense. For example: there was a verbal argument in Alladin’s part of the island while “prince Ali” was having his moment with the elephant and such. 
And the people in the argument were still able to talk with eachother even though they weren’t that far from all the music etc. It doesn’t make sense. 

I didn’t feel much for the characters and I didn’t feel the romance either. I only rooted for one couple. With the other I felt no tension no anything. 
The main character madison is also insanely childish and selfish. Although it becomes slightly better towards the ends there were some actually laughable moments: like her making a skirt for herself, thinking her friend will become happy with that. Like?? 

It was an insane read and I’m happy I finished it. 
The reason why I rated it 1.5 star instead of 1 star is because I see young teenagers liking it. 

jdalton's review

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5.0

Thank you Disney Publishing and NetGalley for a review copy of this book.

This book is perfect for Disney Parks fanatics, former cast members (like myself), and current cast members, or anyone who likes happily ever after endings.

I admit that I honestly would love to experience this island and see this as kind of a next gen after the galactic starcruiser hotel, but that's getting a bit too out of topic.

I really liked seeing the journey that the two friends end up on, and how their paths help them discover who they truly are. Crystal really helps to build this world (reminiscent of the Kingdom Keepers series in the tone and flavor) and it makes it seem like a real place.

And as a former cast member, I could really relate to Val and her stressing over making things perfect.

And shout out to the College Program mention!

theyearofme's review

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funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

Disney propaganda 

onarosebeam's review

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adventurous funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This summer is really teaching me to embrace the fairytale. 

peacelovereading's review against another edition

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funny inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

renwar96's review

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4.0

If you love Disney then you have to read this book. Cute and quirky Madison is a super Disney fan! She believes she’s one of the most knowledgeable all things Disney person. After a break up with her girlfriend she finds out that she’s won a trip to a new Disney resort called Disney Happily Ever Island where she gets to live out her dream of being whichever princess she chooses. She asks her friend/roommate to go along since she is now single. Her friend is the opposite of a super fan. She’s working hard to become a doctor and doesn’t have time for whimsy but after bombing a test decides to join Madison on her trip for spring break. Once they arrive their Princess personas have them meeting different people and experiencing different things. Maybe they will find love, friendship, heartache, or happiness being a Disney Princess!