linren16's review against another edition
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 against another edition
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.
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 against another edition
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!
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 against another edition
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 against another edition
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
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 against another edition
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!
ashleyreads713's review against another edition
5.0
Thank you Disney publishing & Disney Hyperion for my arc and audio arc in exchange for my honest opinion! All thoughts are my own.
Happily Ever Island is the perfect book for Disney lovers!
Madison is a kid at heart, unapologetic Disney lover. When she enters and wins a trip to the inaugural Happily Ever Island, she is LIVING out her wildest dreams. With lands appearing just like Disney landscapes, characters dressing up and playing actual roles, and her best friend attending at her side, Madison is in Disney heaven. Lanie is the exact opposite of Madison: she's never set foot on a Disney theme park. Yet, she agrees to attend the trip with Madison. This island adventure is the exact opposite of "part of her world" but maybe she'll let go all her outside expectations.
This read/listen is the PERFECT thing for those who love Disney. The chapters are titled by popular Disney songs and match each character's vibe. The narrator is perfect for sharing each magical moment and attending to each character need. I recommend this for anyone who wants to wear their Mickey ears and adventure to Neverland or their local theme park.
Happily Ever Island is the perfect book for Disney lovers!
Madison is a kid at heart, unapologetic Disney lover. When she enters and wins a trip to the inaugural Happily Ever Island, she is LIVING out her wildest dreams. With lands appearing just like Disney landscapes, characters dressing up and playing actual roles, and her best friend attending at her side, Madison is in Disney heaven. Lanie is the exact opposite of Madison: she's never set foot on a Disney theme park. Yet, she agrees to attend the trip with Madison. This island adventure is the exact opposite of "part of her world" but maybe she'll let go all her outside expectations.
This read/listen is the PERFECT thing for those who love Disney. The chapters are titled by popular Disney songs and match each character's vibe. The narrator is perfect for sharing each magical moment and attending to each character need. I recommend this for anyone who wants to wear their Mickey ears and adventure to Neverland or their local theme park.
ericadeb's review against another edition
5.0
This was absurd and ridiculous and I loved it! It was the perfect fluffy story for a Disney fan. There were moments when I laughed out loud and I actually cried at the end. And even though it was silly, fluffy, unrealistic nonsense, the character development was great, the plot and pacing we good, and I couldn't put it down (or, turn it off, since I listened to the audio). I've already recommended it to three people. Loved it!