Once More Upon A Time is a charming novella featuring Imelda and Ambrose, two lovers cursed by a witch to fall out of love with each other. A year and a day after their curse is cast, the witch reappears and poses a quest to them. Can Imelda and Ambrose remember why they fell in love along the way? On their journey, they meet a hilarious cast of characters featuring a honey badger, cannibals, and an icy witch queen.

With threads from Twelve Dancing Princesses, this novella is a fairy tale all its own. Once More Upon A Time is so much fun and such a delightful journey! Ambrose is very well-meaning and tired of being the middle child, eager to finally have something for himself. Imelda is a powerful and strong princess, unwilling to give up her freedom. I loved her personality! Readers will be able to find something to relate to in both. Chokshi knows all the classic fairy tale tropes and how to poke fun at them. Traveling scenes are eschewed, a talking horse cloak is a loyal companion, and we finally hear things from the witch’s point of view. I loved how tongue in cheek it was, clearly showing a deep love for fairy tales and twists.

Roshani Chokshi writes incredibly sensory details and descriptions, painting a vivid picture in every scene. There is a good mix of funny and sweet scenes. I only wish it were longer, because I want to see more from these characters! I recommend Once More Upon A Time for when you are looking for a short, sweet, and hilarious fairy tale. It’s such a delightful treat! Once More Upon A Time releases on October 5, 2021. Thank you so much to Roshani Chokshi, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.