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A review by brandenburg_reads
How to Summon a Fairy Godmother by Laura J. Mayo
5.0
How to Summon a Fairy Godmother is a twist on the classic fairy tale, blending humor, magic, and romance into a story that challenges traditional notions of happily ever after. Lady Theodosia Balfour, or Theo, is about to be stuck in a life-altering predicament after her stepsister, Princess Beatrice, spreads damaging rumors about their family. Reminiscent of Cinderella, but with a refreshing inversion of the tale's familiar roles. Instead of Cinderella being the center of attention, we hear from Theo, one of the stepsisters. She is seeking help from a fairy godmother to escape an impending forced marriage to the detestable and very, very, very old Duke, who views Theo as nothing more than a vessel for producing heirs, has her in a tailspin and desperate to get out of the nuptials. The desperation of Theo's situation is palpable, and her resolve to find a way out leads her to discover a fairy in her stepsister's old room.
Cecily is far from a wish-granting fairy godmother of popular fairy tales. She's sharp-witted, mischievous, and more interested in gaining favors than doling out free magic. The tasks Cecily sets for Theo are ostensibly to prove Theo's kindness and selflessness, but they also serve as a journey of self-discovery. Through these tasks, Theo begins to connect with the magical world around her, finding unexpected allies in Cecily's familiars—Phineas, a human-turned-mockingbird, and Kasra, an aloof yet strikingly handsome fox shapeshifter. The story's heart lies in Theo's evolving understanding of herself and the world she inhabits. As she navigates the challenges, Theo's character grows surprisingly, revealing her capacity for empathy and courage, perhaps overlooked in her previous life among the human aristocracy.
The novel deftly balances light-hearted moments with deeper themes of self-worth and the search for true happiness. I can't remember the last time I was so in love with a story and all its characters. The awakening of self-awareness is beautiful and creates a pause for readers to look inward. The book blends whimsical and witty dialogue with emotional depth in an adventure without a dull moment. Proving that breaking free from the roles others impose on us and forging a path that feels authentically our own and can lead to unexpected places. Do yourself a favor and read this book!
I received an ARC audiobook for my honest review. Thank you, NetGalley and Orbit Books.
Cecily is far from a wish-granting fairy godmother of popular fairy tales. She's sharp-witted, mischievous, and more interested in gaining favors than doling out free magic. The tasks Cecily sets for Theo are ostensibly to prove Theo's kindness and selflessness, but they also serve as a journey of self-discovery. Through these tasks, Theo begins to connect with the magical world around her, finding unexpected allies in Cecily's familiars—Phineas, a human-turned-mockingbird, and Kasra, an aloof yet strikingly handsome fox shapeshifter. The story's heart lies in Theo's evolving understanding of herself and the world she inhabits. As she navigates the challenges, Theo's character grows surprisingly, revealing her capacity for empathy and courage, perhaps overlooked in her previous life among the human aristocracy.
The novel deftly balances light-hearted moments with deeper themes of self-worth and the search for true happiness. I can't remember the last time I was so in love with a story and all its characters. The awakening of self-awareness is beautiful and creates a pause for readers to look inward. The book blends whimsical and witty dialogue with emotional depth in an adventure without a dull moment. Proving that breaking free from the roles others impose on us and forging a path that feels authentically our own and can lead to unexpected places. Do yourself a favor and read this book!
I received an ARC audiobook for my honest review. Thank you, NetGalley and Orbit Books.