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popthebutterfly 's review for:

The Step-Spinsters by Madina Papadopoulos
5.0

Rating: 5/5

Genre: Fantasy/Fairytale Retelling

Recommended Age: 14+

I received a free copy of this book from Kindle Scout AND the author herself! This did not influence my decision in any manner.

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away… ...(actually, in Medieval France, to be exact) there lived Cinderella's stepsisters, Fredegonde the tall and Javotte the small. They wake up the morning after the legendary ball to learn that they each still have a chance to be the bride—all they have to do is make their feet fit into that tricky slipper. Alas, these two damsels under stress never quite seem to fit in anywhere. But that doesn’t stop them from wishing and hoping as they set upon a quest for grooms and grandeur of their own. – Amazon.com

I really really REALLY enjoy fairytale retellings. I’ve always wanted to see what the world looked like from another’s point of view and with retellings I can do just that! So, being a lover of retellings I feel that I am somewhat critical of them and I haven’t found one that has swept me away since first reading Wicked by Gregory Maguire. Well, the day I picked up this book changed that for me. This book. THIS BOOK. IT. WAS. AMAZING! I thought the book was expertly written. From the first word you’re hooked. The book was also very easy to follow along with even though the author incorporated more of the history and language patterns of the Cinderella era. The character development was phenomenal and I loved how the characters you end up rooting for are not these model-type characters readers are very commonly introduced to. The plot, even though it’s a mostly recycled one from the Cinderella story we know and love, feels new and exciting. I love what the author did with all of the elements of the Cinderella story, especially with the fairy godmother. The pacing is also expertly well done.

While the book was a perfect fit for me, it may not be for some readers. The book seemed a bit denser than other popular books are and the book does showcase Cinderella in a bad light, so it does break the heart of Cinderella lovers everywhere.

Verdict: This author is going places and you can help her out by supporting this book. It’s a wonderful read, perfect for any fairytale retelling fans anywhere. Definitely check out this book if you want to read a book you’ll remember for the rest of your life.