17 Romantic Faerie Tales (Once Upon Series Book 2)

I only skipped one of the stories (princess charming-- girl-girl love is not my cup of tea), but the others were wonderfully imaginative. I had a hard time putting this anthology down for any period of time, even to sleep.

I only skipped one of the stories (princess charming-- girl-girl love is not my cup of tea), but the others were wonderfully imaginative. I had a hard time putting this anthology down for any period of time, even to sleep.

Alice in Wonderland is my all time favorite fairy story, so I had to read "Mad About You" by Jennifer Blackstream first - be still my heart, PLEASE turn this into a full book! At first the story seemed rushed, as you start out in the middle of a conversation you're missing all the details to, but everything gets explained eventually (still too quickly for my liking, but it IS a short story so I'll forgive it). The groundwork is well laid and the characters have so much potential, but Mad About You as simply a short story is just such a tease!

After finishing the other stories, I will update this review. $0.99 is a great deal, even if you don't end up liking all the stories, and I feel this anthology is a neat introduction to some great authors!

Fun read. I have always loved fairy tales and having old stories retold from different perspectives was delightful. I gave 5 stars because I found the stories very entertaining. I also found new authors to read!

I absolutely adored this story collection! Many were new takes on old familiars, and I love the way they were done. The new perspectives from characters brought a fresh life to the stories, and made them all the better for it!

Kindle Unlimited but actually bought it, and now remember why quit buying collection no matter how 'cheap' when half or more end up duds usually. Taking the HIGHEST possible numbers the whole set wouldn't come out to evev a {the store} 3 but for the very few did like going to go with the 3.

The Glass Mountain was maybe 4ish, The Baker's Grimm {though not sure how the bakeries equal Rumplestilskin in any real way} about 4ish, Galatea and Pygmalian was 3ish, but then there was Red made no sense from start to finish, don't even know what story it's supposed to be 'like' BUT it didn't make much sense and writer needs to quit using sexaul/pseudo sexual situations as crutch instead of actual romance which bad enough when there is no actual sense for it to be in story, really running for your life and your sister's life on the line and dead parents because of coven who lied about everything and you have the hots for someone/thing you don't even know or know about during life and death situation yeah whatever, and stories such as this why have quit buying anthologies and collections no matter low $ 2 at best

PRINCESS CHARMING really need to cut out the fru fru chick{s} stuff regarding the YOLO and other only presently used acronyms, didn't bother me in the least it was princess charming just don't want to have to read all the chick lit yuck otherwise it would have been a good story {although being thrown in to the story with weird correspondence thing and having to figure it out as went wasn't great either} and no reason to put sex in 2
MAD ABOUT YOU again someone attempting to write and using the crutch of sex/sexual situations when there was no need 3ish could've been 5

THE SEA KING'S DAUGHTER repititious use words/phrases even in same sentence, if it's so dangerous to go up above the sea then why allowed even once a year, not sure how one can clasp finned 'fingers' then a bit later clasp fingers make up mind about description, how can she be laughing aloud one second not even smiling the next but supposedly her eyes sparkling, why would lungs respond even though already used to it but then second time only after going up further out of water when all she got hit with is WATER spray, no voice but now fingers is the language so totally different she couldn't write in the sand or on paper? Leave your kid, both parents and no big deal or mention about kid again? 2

ROMEO AND JULIET: THE AFTERLIFE idiot believes in heaven but no hell it's oxymoronic, she doesn't believe then she's starting to, then at end oh magic sounds promising uh what,ending was a total letdown after suffering through the chick lit crap 2 btw 1 story is English Lit the other is fairy tale so wouldn't be mixing fairy tales by mixing them 'together' at some stage or future story because 1 is Eng Lit/Shakespeare not Grimm etc

SOOT AND STONE: A Fae Tale of the Otherworld she wasn't getting paid or much out of her work?, why would she stupid chick run just because he didn't fully tell her who he was, she didn't tell him everything either, usual tired same old about the female tiresome and stupid, why didn't she just quit or better yet in front of everyone demand he do it in front of them which he couldn't then do it herself, another using chick lit crutches 2/3

THE HUNTSMAN'S SNOW ok twilight-esque chick lit mixed with 90210 teen angst stupidity, and before thinking better of WHAT, how can someone be 10 years older than her yet 'just a pup' when she was born, then to put in sexual situations writing crutch, could have been 4/5 not 2 at best

RUMPELIMPSKIN Excuse me, 5 sentences in and drop the F bomb for no reason, that means no real talent for writing real stories which this 'story' proved quickly and repeatedly, really evidenced by the crap in your face double meaning obviouusly meaning the worst, how this had even the SLIGHTEST link to the original or even Grimms' original who knows 1 and use names not just 'her' or 'she when there's a bunch of those, and btw I blog on what's billed as the world's largest sex site and they can actually write, not just use crutches to prop up a cardboard storyline, and really 'bales' of hay hmmm how'd she get bales undone it takes a knife or something versus just scattered hay, you're about to die so you have sex? yeah whatever, and obviously still doesn't know about guy recovery time tho mentions it yet still claims hard, less than 1.

THE GLASS SKY prologue first telling the possible end uh makes no sense, about as much no sense as a downstairs in a snow globe, how does someone's lips on your skin tingle when you're wearing the same long gloves that were just mentioned, she's buried in books and can't move but at the same time she lifts hem of her dress, why say clavicle when you can say {left/right/both} collarbone, someone can't learn how to ride motorcycle by watching someone else do it less so if behind the person holding on and definitely no for person in front holding hand of person in back because imblance and lack of steering abilty and just stupid, you wouldn't know it was cottage nor what looked like from pulling in to basement from tunnel, why would motorcycle leave tracks on concrete even 'light dusting' makes no sense because how far down any track would that remain, back and forth story line is confusing in several ways and serves to do nothing but that {confuse} leading nowhere, and how stupid is chick not to have known who he was, no idea what this story was supposed to have been about and even told later still see no resemblance 1

RUSH - C. Gockel 'great' yet another story full of cussing for no reason, the lights are blinding but yet a couple sentences later he can 'feel' around him with CLOSED eyes uh what, the general story dragged at first and was confusing in places but overall a 3 could have been a 4

PERCHANCE TO DREAM bit too convoluted so a 3 or so just eh-ish

THE TOAD PRINCE uh what? 2 at best
.

CRAFTED WITH A KISS maybe as much as a 3, it rather dragged out, especially for a short story

A SMALL MAGIC already one huh, what does a dark drawer have to do with a porrige bowl and spoon, if she couldn't hear any person, animal, or thing, how then did she hear the porrige bowl and spoon, the mattresses etcetera, and saying somewhere else it had to be 'inanimate' doesn't explain the pea that's organic not really 'inanimate', but overall would say it's one of the too few stories that would have gotten the 4-5 definitely.

I enjoyed the modern twists on existing fairy tales, but a couple got a little preachy with some political rhetoric. C'mon, tell a story people. Stop trying to push your agenda and ruin what could have been good. Worth the read, 5 stars for the good stories, 1 star on the others.

Fair warning. I only read two stories; that was all I could manage. I decided I'd rather not fight my way through any additional efforts. So, judge this solely on the fact I have reached an age where I will just say "No" to lackluster writing. I will say, whatever price they paid for the cover art was definitely worth it. Proving the truism that you cannot judge a book by its cover.

I liked several of the authors and thought the idea of the anthology sounded fun so I tried it. I was very disappointed. At least half of the stories seemed like they stopped in the middle and the others didn't have much in the way of character development. I hate it when word count and length trumps story.

Instead of starting at the beginning I hopped to Jennifer Blackstream’s story first because the mad hatter is one of my absolute favorites at the moment – and her spin didn’t disappoint at all. I loved the tigers, how brave she is, how cute he and how marvellous the world they find themselves in. The cheshire was way cool and I am looking forward to the author’s next take on a well-known childhood story!

Alethea Kontis‘ story about the glass mountain caught my heart. Especially the dry humor, the pet names and the way her sister handles things… so very matter-of-fact. I enjoyed reading it and would love to hear more about them.

Hailey Edwards’ baking challenge was a pleasure to read, funny and exciting – the mothers so eager, the children so loveable. The end surprised me and I really liked how it went. Here too, I’d like to read more – and I think the book she talked about is already on my Kindle, so I can.

Kate Danley’s take on the Pygmalion saga was a very catching one, I absolutely felt for the artist and even though I knew what would happen I was on the edge, biting my nails throughout the story. Good one!

Sara Cannon’s fairy tale unfortunately wasn’t a short story but a snippet – meaning it had no end but just stopped in the middle (and we may read more about them in one of her books but I’m not sure I want to start the series to meet them again…). That being said it’s a very interesting one with a younger sister who absolutely fascinated me (and I hope she’ll find a happ ending!) and a cute pair whom I wish all the best.

Yasmine Galenorn’s idea of writing letters instead of a story, from one princess at the beginning of her fairy tale to another already stuck in hers, both very much “not amused” by the men they are partnered with was hilarious. Yes, the language is a bit coarse but it absolutely fit the very modern “sex in the city like” heroines. And I absolutely enjoyed their love stories. Who wouldn’t want to live in Everafter?

Anthea Sharp's story didn't really get to me. A very long beginning with lots of things not really doing something for the story which then is quite nice but very near the original and in the end very sad... but that may just be my issue.

Julia Crane's story lost me along the way. I got confused and the idea is interesting but couldn't really convince me especially because it doesn't have an end. At all.

Jenna Elizabeth Johnson's Cinderella was an interesting one. I liked how she combined the fairy tale with the Irish mythology and how she spun her own story out of it. I am sorry for Marta an Elrie (she should have taken them with her!) but adored Kiernan.

Mandy M. Roth's story was a bit short, only a snippet in time, but it painted the whole picture so I was okay with that. Nice spin here too, I liked the Huntsman and (even though I was a bit ashamed) laughed heartily about Prince Charming.

Debra Dunbar's imp got me immediately, she's so cool and her angel, oh my, I can fully feel with her, he's adorable when he loses his uppity halo and angelic distance from humanity. This Rumpel was very near the original and amused me tremendously. Good one!

C. Gockel's story really made me root for Rush. Even though he is an arrogant women hater and I should absolutely dislike him, the things he's put through... somehow I can feel for him and want him to find a way out of his misery. I really liked the story and shed some tears along the way - and especially liked the author's note at the end.

Phaedra Weldon's was an interesting take on Sleeping beauty but couldn't quite make me feel for the protagonists. It wasn't a bad story, I just couldn't really get into it somehow.

Devon Monk's had a very cool idea and I liked how she spun it.

I love those enchanting anthologies and I hope they have more in the making!

Anthology - What a fabulous group of stories! I still have a few of them to finish, but I am enjoying them all so much so far! I will update after I finish all of them.
There is so much variety packed in one place. I'm sure you will find plenty that keeps you entertained.
BTW...many of these stories were firsts for me (by these authors) with a few exceptions. Just another reason I adore these bundled tales...we get a chance to see what new authors have to offer. In complete honesty this collection has some true gems that I am beyond excited to be adding to my favorites list.

Let's start with an author I have been a fan of since I read her very first creation. Alexia Purdy brought her A game once again with The Glass Sky. It was where I chose to begin in this book before moving on to the other new authors. 5 Star I love the whole idea of this tale! Here's hoping we will see more of her unique world in the very near future!
...
The awesome does NOT stop there either!
The Glass Mountain by Alethea Kontis
5 Star What a wonderfully enchanting tale! I absolutely LOVE Rinkrank & Mandrake!! Their love hate battle added depth to their relationship. The Wizardry astounded me. Truly, the whole concept amazed me. I can't wait to read more by this author!

The Bakers Grimm by Hailey Edwards
5 Star Great play on a modern day Rumpelstiltskin!!! This was my first book by Edwards & I will be adding her to my favorites list! I enjoyed every detail of this tale!

Galatea & Pygmalion by Kate Danley
5 Star Seriously a fabulous tale that I had not heard of before! Yet another terrific introduction to a new to me author's work! This story was a neat twist on the will
of the Gods & Goddesses that I will not soon forget. However, my favorite part is how Galatea was freed from the future her aunt & uncle wished upon her. And...I will be keeping an eye on this author as well.

Red by Sara Cannon
5 Star Oh my Wolf! This was short but oh so haunting & sweet! I have never found a twist on the Little Red Riding Hood such as this, but I must have more! In 4 short chapters Charlotte & Connery won me over & I will be waiting oh so impatiently to read where they end up!

This is a gathering of short stories from a bunch of different authors. You're going to like some and really not care much for others. I think that should just be a given in compilations like this. That was certainly true here for me. I was given a free copy of this for an honest review.

My primary interest in this set was Rush. I adore C. Gockel's I Bring The Fire series. This short story takes place after the end of the series. I don't think you'll care much for the story if you haven't read the series, so there's that. But, if you have, this is the beginning of a transformation about Rush - easily one of the most loathsome characters I've read by Gockel - thankfully, he isn't beyond redemption and we do get some glimpses of some positive traits in the final book of the series. This short story explores those traits. We get to see Bohdi and Amy (freaking YES). AND we find out about Rush's magic! I did NOT see that coming and for his magic alone I'm hoping to get more stories about him! It's a bit darker than the other stories in the compilation and filled with Gocklel' trademark complex character development. A great addition to her universe and hopefully a sign of things to come!

The Huntsman's Snow was fairly basic. It's a sweet story about Snow White and the Huntsman. Nothing terribly dramatic or surprising, just a short sweet story.

Perchance to Dream was a unique story. I did not find there to be much subtlety with the characterization (which is, personally, where most of my enjoyment of reading comes from), but it was a solid story and I enjoyed reading it.

The Toad Prince is a lead-in or more of a prologue to the author's larger story. As such, it isn't really a standalone, so it feels unfinished. It is an invitation to read more. While I don't like a unfinished story, the lead-in did a good job of setting a dark and tense tone for a character who has not yet come into her own.

Crafted With a Kiss was really enjoyable! I was surprised! The prose could use a bit more refining/maturing, but overall I really enjoyed the characters and plot of a story. I found the twist on Pinocchio terribly clever. This feels like it could have been fleshed out (pun!) into a full novel for all the potential there in the world and characters.

A Small Magic is an absolute GEM. This was the most fairytale of all the stories I read and it was done just beautifully - enough so to send me to the search bar of the 'zon to check out the full length offerings of Devon Monk. The world building and characterization was subtle and complex and the relationships teased out were profoundly satisfying. Everything I'd hope from a short story.

For my personal interest in Rush, the creativity in the other books listed and for A Small Magic, I would certainly consider ninety-nine cents to be worth it snatching up this compilation!

Star is a privileged young woman. The biggest obstacle is getting her parents to understand she doesn't want to marry. She attends a ball with her parents, where she is given the ultimatum, to choose a husband or have one chosen for her. She rebuffs all suitors that day including a man she insults & nicknames: Lord Thrushbeard.

As she escapes to the library, her world explodes with shattering glass, crumbling concrete & books pummeling to the floor. When the dust clears, she is rescued by a handsome young man with dark hair & brilliant blue eyes - Clyde.

This story is a Fairytale reimagining of King Thrushbeard. This is a tale I am not really familiar with but I did enjoy the author's version. Hoping there's more to this story since it did have a bit of cliffy ending!

Remember don't judge a "book" or person by appearances.

I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy.

If you enjoy traditional fairy tales that explore a different point of view or plot twist, this is your book!

I read all 17 stories in this book, I will review my favorites.

First is Princess Charming by Yasmine Galenorn. This story was a fun quick read! Cindy (aka Cinderella) and Arabelle (aka Belle) are best friends who write letters to one another. As you read each letter, their particular love story unfolds. Cindy's word choice ("spawn" for her step sisters for example) totally cracks me up. I feel that if I were stuck in an abusive situation as Cinerella was, I would act and think a lot like Cindy...Yasmine keeps it real! Arabelle has her own personality too. She is not as"door-matty" as the original Disney Belle. Plus, she discusses the reality of dating a beast! It hinders the sex life! Luckily, both characters find love and happiness in the end...Cindy actually falls for a princess, not a prince. This story makes me want to see Yasmine's take on other fairy tale characters!

Next is Mad About You by Jennifer Blackstream. This story fascinated me the moment I realized the Mad Hatter was going to be Alice (who is grown up in this version)'s love interest! That was a twist I've never seen before. I don't want to give too much away, but Jennifer dives in the background of the Mad Hatter's character...by the end it obvious they are soulmates. The story ended but I wanted to read more! I was thrilled to see the author's note stating she may make this story/world a full length novel. If she does, I look forward to reading more!

Last, I'd like to review The Sea King's Daugher by Anthea Sharp. I've been a huge fan of Disney's Little Mermaid since I was a kid so this story intrigued me right away. This story had so many details to it, it helped me visualize what it would be like swimming down into the ocean. For example, depending on the depth of the ocean, the water would be a certain color (depending on how much sunlight could seep through). Plus, Anthea was able to describe what I would imagine it would feel like like physically going to to the surface after spending all your time underwater. Your hair would feel different, breathing would obviously be different and air would feel different on your skin. I don't want to give too much of the plot away but this story loosely--I stress loosely--follows the Disney's The Little Mermaid. Anthea does a great job of blending known Little Mermaid tales and adding her own unique slant.

I am having so much fun reading this anthology (which I received in exchange for an honest review). I haven't read the whole thing, but I will review a few of the stories that I have.

Red by Sarra Cannon: as always, Sarra's story yanks you into it. Red is set in the shadow demon world and we get a look at a ruby witch who in trying to save someone close to her has to decide who to trust. A new element has been added to this world, and I can't wait to read more! My only complaint is that this was such a tease...I really want more of this specific story!

Princess Charming by Yasmine Galenorn: this was so funny! It's written as letters between Belle and Cinderella document a fresh take on those fairy tales. It had a twist I never saw coming, but absolutely loved!

Romeo and Juliet: The Afterlife by Julia Crane: I found this one to have a good premise, but it really seemed to be a set up for more work as opposed to enjoying it on its own. The writing is done well and the twist is intriguing; however, I found it boring in and of itself. Actually carrying out what the author has set up should be an interesting read, but this one gets a pass from me.

The Huntsman's Snow by Mandy Roth: a fun, quick read that explores what happens after Snow White is rescued. A satisfying twist and end to the story!

All in all, I recommend this anthology as a light, fun read full of twists about favourite fairy tale characters!

I loved these fairy tales. The spins the authors put on them and captivate you from the start to finish.

Yasmine Galenorn's Princess Charming was one of my favorites. The formate of the story is two girls writing to each other to vent. I really like how the story was writen that way. And that the two prinesses were best friends talking to each other about there love lives. Definitely one of my favorite stories.

The Glass Sky Alexa Purdy is a very cool retelling of the Lord Thrushbeard story. The only down side is to me was a very fast read.

A Small Magic is my second favorite story. Its a very cool retelling of the Priness and the Pea. The princess in the story can not speak or hear any humans. She can only talk to inanimate objects. She goes out on an adventure with a little pea who loves to talk to her. The story is sweet and a very cool twist.

I recieved a copy of this book for review. And this review was voluntary.