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Jan 17, 2019goddessbeth rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
This one hit all my sweet spots: fairytale retelling, geek-centric, authentic voice, believably diverse cast, and sweet romance. I do adore a geek-centric story, when it comes from an honest fandom voice. My favorite is still (by far) The Geek's Guide to Unrequited Love, but this one is definitely in my top three. Here's why: ♥ It's clever, but it sticks true to elements of Cinderella (especially the Ever After version), so while the major plot points were obviously going to happen, the hook and tension was in the details. ♥ The text conversations/flirtations between Elle and Darien were sweet, funny, and believable. ♥ Both main characters- heroine and hero- were developed. This isn't just Elle's show. ♥ While the verbal abuse, manipulation, and controlling nightmare of Elle's house is present, it isn't the primary focus. It doesn't serve to develop her as a character more than her love for her deceased father, which feels authentic both to reality and to the original character of Cinderella (who has to have been clinging to something hopeful). ♥ There's representation of the fandom community, both the good (community help) and the bad ("you aren't geek enough because you're a girl" b.s.) ♥ Everyone not a villain has to take risks in this story in order to experience wonderful things. I think that's as important of a message for side characters as it is for main characters. In short, it's a sweet, believable romance. If you go to cons or write fanfic or are a fan of Firefly, Star Trek, BSG, etc., you'll enjoy it that much more. I recommend it for fans of contemporary YA romance, fairytale retellings, and the fandom community (especially those of us who grew up on scifi, thanks to our fathers).