R.C. Lewis teaches math to teenagers—sometimes in sign language, sometimes not—so whether she’s a science geek or a bookworm depends on when you look. That may explain why her characters don’t like to be pigeonholed. Coincidentally, R.C. enjoys reading about quantum physics and the identity issues of photons.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love, love, love Fairytale retellings and this book did not fail me. I know that a number of people have been comparing this story to another series that I absolutely adore and yes, there may be some similarities but overall I didn’t strictly identify it with that as this is Snow White’s story.
Essie has been living on the planet Thanda for a while now and she has done her best to avoid strangers and anyone that could figure out who she is. One thing we learn about her is that she is great with technology and is a fighter. When a mysterious stranger crash lands on the planet and Essie makes the decision to help him, things take a turn and she finds herself on her way back to the danger of her home planet, Windsong and within easy reach of her stepmother Olivia.
As the story progresses, we find out how Essie really escaped Windsong and I’m not going to tell you what happened because that would give a bit of the story away. Just know that there were some people within the palace that recognized the danger she was in and due to promises made, did whatever they possibly could to keep Essie safe. Even if it meant sending her to a freezing planet to make it on her own.
We also find out that Olivia hasn’t given up. She will do whatever she possibly can to get rid of Essie and eventually take over ruling Windsong. Once Essie comes back, the only thing standing between Essie and Olivia’s plans are Dane….the mysterious guy who crash landed on Thanda.
I loved how Lewis built out these worlds and the way the characters were developed. If you know me at all you know I love a good character driven story and Essie and Dane as the main characters were done well. Essie is strong, tough, and smart – Some of my favorite aspects to a female lead. At first she is standoffish to everyone around her with the exception of Petey but I couldn’t blame her for it. She was protecting herself and doing so by keeping her distance.
While at first we didn’t get to know Dane very well, as he spent more time with Essie, I found him more interesting. I don’t think I would consider him as well developed as Essie but in the end it didn’t bother me. We found out the important stuff about his background and what he was trying to accomplish when he crash landed on Thanda. Add to that the fact that he delivered on the important parts which were helping Essie and the swoony bits and I was happy. For the record, I would have loved more of the swoony stuff.
One of the things I didn’t care for was the twist with Essie’s father. I don’t know that it was necessary but it is what it is. I won’t say anymore as I don’t want to ruin any of the story – even this part. I also would have liked to know more about Olivia’s drive for power. It wasn’t very clear (to me at least) why she wanted it. It could be possible there wasn’t a reason but I guess I wanted there to be one.
Overall I really enjoyed this one. The plot follows through and provides a solid ending and it has plenty of action and romance. If you enjoy fairytale retellings, definitely check this one out. I found myself engaged in the story and hope you do too!
Thank you to Netgalley and Disney-Hyperion for the review copy!
Recent Comments