A review by caffeinatedbibliophile
The Ugly Stepsister Strikes Back by Sariah Wilson

4.0

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.


I admit it: I was hesitant about this book at first. While I love YA, generally, I've read a few fairytale-like stories (or retellings) that didn't go so well. But, the story sounded really cute and light, which was just what I needed, so I gave it a shot.

I'm a real pessimist when it comes to stories like this one. The quiet, artistic girl with a big love for John Hughes films, and the unrequited love of the hot jock guy. I keep waiting for the pig's blood scene from Carrie to happen again.

Thankfully, it didn't happen in this story, even though I was certain it would at any moment, until the very last sentence.

I made it through this book in one day, and it was a fun read. I felt pretty bad for Mattie and how she viewed herself. I thought she was a little immature and annoying at first, to be honest, but I think her character really changed for the better by the end of the book.

I think my favorite thing about this book was how Sariah Wilson didn't try to retell the Cinderella story from the stepsister's POV, or stick to that theme completely. It's obvious that Cinderella was an inspiration, but this story really stands on its own.

I didn't absolutely love the story, but I thought it was a good read and I would definitely recommend it.