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4.21 AVERAGE
4.21 AVERAGE
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I will be honest, I didn't know what to expect going into this book so my expectations weren't very high. But wow did How to Summon a Fairy Godmother take me by surprise!
A funny Cinderella retelling that looks at one of the evil step sisters life after the happily ever after.
Theo makes a bargain with the same faerie, Cecilly, that granted her stepsister Beatrice her wish to go to the ball. In order for her wish of ending her marriage to an old and awful duke, Theo must complete three tasks to orove she is a good and kind person.
There are twists and turns throughout the story that keeps you hooked and trying to guess what will happen next.
The journey Theo goes on throughout this book is so enjoyable. It makes you see the world from her perspective, and I found myself.routing fo her from the very beginning.
The characters are all well written and believable, and really bring the story to life.
Josie Charles does an amazing job at narrating, I will definitely be looking out for more of her work. The emotion and energy she puts into the characters is top tier. Chefs kiss to you, Josie.
If you like fairytale retellings, fmcs taking control of their own life choices and witty characters.. then this is the book for you!
A funny Cinderella retelling that looks at one of the evil step sisters life after the happily ever after.
Theo makes a bargain with the same faerie, Cecilly, that granted her stepsister Beatrice her wish to go to the ball. In order for her wish of ending her marriage to an old and awful duke, Theo must complete three tasks to orove she is a good and kind person.
There are twists and turns throughout the story that keeps you hooked and trying to guess what will happen next.
The journey Theo goes on throughout this book is so enjoyable. It makes you see the world from her perspective, and I found myself.routing fo her from the very beginning.
The characters are all well written and believable, and really bring the story to life.
Josie Charles does an amazing job at narrating, I will definitely be looking out for more of her work. The emotion and energy she puts into the characters is top tier. Chefs kiss to you, Josie.
If you like fairytale retellings, fmcs taking control of their own life choices and witty characters.. then this is the book for you!
This is Cinderella’s stepsisters story and I ended up really liking it! It’s funny and doesn’t take itself too seriously whilst still dealing with some hard hitting stuff. Theo was such a morally iffy main character and I thought her character arc was well done. Hopefully we have a sequel 🤞🏼
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I had so much fun with How to Summon a Fairy Godmother! This book gave me exactly what I needed, a lighthearted, laugh out loud read with plenty of charm. Theo, one of Cinderella’s stepsisters, is the main character, and I loved the twist of seeing the “evil” stepsister take center stage. The book turns the classic fairy tale on its head, showing that not everyone is exactly who you thought they were. The banter between Theo and the magical cast, especially Cecily, the not so typical fairy godmother, and her familiars Phineas and Kaz, kept me grinning the entire time. It’s witty, snarky, and full of fun twists.
There are two big reveals near the end of the book, and while I could see one coming, the other completely surprised me in the best way. The plot is fast paced, with plenty of comedic moments and a heartwarming journey of character growth for Theo. She’s testy at first, but watching her learn and change was such a rewarding experience. Overall, this was the perfect cozy fantasy, and I’m already excited for the next book to see how the story continues. If you’re looking for a fun, easy read that puts a fresh spin on a classic tale, I absolutely recommend this one!
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book published on October 8, 2024.
There are two big reveals near the end of the book, and while I could see one coming, the other completely surprised me in the best way. The plot is fast paced, with plenty of comedic moments and a heartwarming journey of character growth for Theo. She’s testy at first, but watching her learn and change was such a rewarding experience. Overall, this was the perfect cozy fantasy, and I’m already excited for the next book to see how the story continues. If you’re looking for a fun, easy read that puts a fresh spin on a classic tale, I absolutely recommend this one!
Thank you NetGalley and Orbit for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Book published on October 8, 2024.
"How to Summon a Fairy Godmother" by Laura J. Mayo and was captivated by the fresh take on the classic Cinderella tale. The story is told through the eyes of Theo, Cinderella's stepsister, offering a unique perspective on what happens after the famous pumpkin carriage scene. Left behind, Theo struggles with a tarnished reputation and an uncertain future. Facing an arranged marriage and unexpected stepchildren, she decides to summon a fairy godmother and embark on a quest for her own happiness.
Theo is a complex character who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the story. Initially sharp-witted and resentful, she evolves into a more empathetic and courageous individual. The romance between Theo and her suitors, Lock and Kas, is delicately portrayed, adding depth to the narrative. However, the core of the story remains Theo's journey towards self-love and personal growth.
Cecily, the fairy godmother, is a standout character with her whimsical and morally ambiguous nature. Her presence adds an intriguing layer to the story, and I would love to read a novella from her perspective.
The audio narration was excellent, and the plot twists kept me engaged. The protagonist, Theo, is a compelling character, and I found myself rooting for her from the beginning. While I enjoyed the book overall, I felt that Theo's transformation from villain to hero could have been more developed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am eager to get my hands on a hard copy. I look forward to news about the sequel, as I believe it will be a magical ride!
Many thanks to Laura J. Mayo, Orbit Books, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the eARC/ALC of
"How to Summon a Fairy Godmother." The book will be available for purchase on October 8th, 2024.
Theo is a complex character who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the story. Initially sharp-witted and resentful, she evolves into a more empathetic and courageous individual. The romance between Theo and her suitors, Lock and Kas, is delicately portrayed, adding depth to the narrative. However, the core of the story remains Theo's journey towards self-love and personal growth.
Cecily, the fairy godmother, is a standout character with her whimsical and morally ambiguous nature. Her presence adds an intriguing layer to the story, and I would love to read a novella from her perspective.
The audio narration was excellent, and the plot twists kept me engaged. The protagonist, Theo, is a compelling character, and I found myself rooting for her from the beginning. While I enjoyed the book overall, I felt that Theo's transformation from villain to hero could have been more developed.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am eager to get my hands on a hard copy. I look forward to news about the sequel, as I believe it will be a magical ride!
Many thanks to Laura J. Mayo, Orbit Books, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the eARC/ALC of
"How to Summon a Fairy Godmother." The book will be available for purchase on October 8th, 2024.
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Lady Theodosia Balfour has really gotten the short end of the stick in life - according to her anyway. Most recently, she’s been forced to become engaged to the Duke of Snowbell, a grumpy old man who only wants her to make spare heirs. Desperate to find an escape from the marriage, Theo summons a fairy godmother. Except, it’s not as easy as it is in fairytales. Instead of being granted her wish, Theo must earn it by completing difficult tasks designed to prove that Theo is kindhearted. As Theo ventures into the magical world of fairies, she finds herself becoming friends with magical creatures.
This book was absolutely adorable, so much fun, and filled with adventure all at the same time. I was engaged the entire time, and didn’t want to put it down. I loved the complexity of Theo’s character and the way she grew and developed throughout the book. The world building and setting were fantastic and I enjoyed all of the magical creatures. If you’re looking for a magical fairytale retelling with humor, look no further! I’m so excited to see what happens next in this series!
I listened to the audio and Josie Charles did a fantastic job with the narration and really brought Theo’s character to life.
Thank you to Orbit Books, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the advance copies!
adventurous
funny
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Thank you to Net Galley and Orbit for the ARC. I really loved reading this. I could really empathize with Theo's character and loved watching her journey and doing the three tasks. This book was really funny and also really heart warming and emotional; I literally started crying towards the end. I love how this was the stepsister's perspective of the Cinderella story. The story started off with a great funny first chapter and I love how the humorous tone was maintained throughout. Can't wait for the next book.
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
I absolutely LOVED this! This was a spin on the classic Cinderella fairytale where we see the story from the POV from one of her step sisters. After “Cinderella” (Beatrice in this story) married the prince, the stepmother is frantically trying to marry off her two daughters since she’s broke. Theo is delighted to hear she’s marrying a duke - until she finds out he is old enough to be her grandfather. When she finds Beatrice’s book on summoning a fairy godmother, she decides to take the chance to get out of her engagement. In exchange for help, Theo has to complete 3 tasks for the fairy, Cecily, and ends up gaining so much character development.
I enjoyed every second of this audiobook and thought the narrator was absolutely perfect for this book.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for an ALC in exchange for my honest review!
I enjoyed every second of this audiobook and thought the narrator was absolutely perfect for this book.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for an ALC in exchange for my honest review!
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes