This book reminded me of how I felt while reading The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.

While I definitely enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the rest of the series, I did have some issues. First, I previously mentioned the overly formal writing. It seemed a bit overdone, but it also seemed to fit the style of story. More importantly, though, were the editing issues. I came across several misused words, instances of confusion (how old is Novas, for example, at times he seems maybe ten, but at others maybe his early twenties... a good editor would have caught this), and just regular old misspelled or missing words.

I definitely think the book would benefit from a strong editor, but this won't prevent me from continuing the story. I'll probably be getting the rest of the series next week or so. After all, a great story can't be held down by iffy editing.

I'm aware that Cinder is based on the Cinderella fairy tale, and it shows in this short story. Iko seems like she/he/it/? will be an interesting character in the books. :-D

I can say with 97% certainty that I would have teared up if not outright cried over this story if I had been able to read it uninterrupted. It was beautiful and heartbreaking.

Wow... I'm thoroughly impressed. Honestly, I was expecting a bit more cookie-cutter of a story, but what I got instead was fast-paced and unique. I liked the dark feel that existed throughout most of the book. There were a few sparks of hope, of course, but not much.

I think what pleased me the most is that, even when Phoenix (our main character) meets her potential love interest, it isn't an instant omg I love you so much omg I can't bear to be separated from you ever you'll never leave me right kind of thing. It's a bit more practical. Their first physical interaction is

Spoiler

brought on by alcohol and set up by two little girls.

Phoenix is rational, practical, and even when she does

Spoiler

decide/realize that she might be falling for Triven, she still puts that affection on the backburner because other things are more important - including keeping Mouse and him safe.

I'm not thrilled about the cliff-hanger, but I'm about to start [b:New World: Ashes|27284375|New World Ashes (New World #2)|Jennifer Wilson|https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1459586808s/27284375.jpg|45777580], so I guess I can let it slide. :-D There were also some awkward dialogue spots in the book that sort of took me out of the moment, but I can't really fault the seemingly overly formal or prose-like dialogue because we already know that Phoenix is well-read (or as well read as she can be). I know that there are times I'm having a perfectly normal conversation and suddenly I start speaking like I'm in 17th century Victorian England for some reason; I attribute it to the fact that I probably read more than I converse with living humans and goodness knows that Phoenix certainly spends (spent) a whole lot less time conversing with humans that I do!

Disclaimer: I did receive this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Just, ugh... I now have to wait until the third book comes out. Another sort of cliffhanger ending, but not as bad as the first book; it will make waiting for the third book a little easier.

I loved the progression of the story, but right now I'm not sure I could really write anything without major spoilers. There was still the issue with overly poetic dialogue, and it wasn't just confined to Phoenix/Prea.

Aah!! It just ended. Oh well, time to continue reading the series instead of sleeping, clearly.

Fun to read, quick paced, and the twist on the fairy tales are delightful!