A review by marthabethanreads
If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy

funny inspiring 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

4.0

Wow what a great read! I really enjoyed this Cinderella retelling and thought it was so cleverly done. I really liked how it moved away from the traditional “evil stepmother” plot to her having a good relationship with her step mother and sisters. This meant there was more emotional depth to the story and it was lovely to read about how they had bonded as a family. 
The reality tv element was so fun and I could picture it all happening. I thought it was a great premise and I really enjoyed this element of the book. 
The plus sized rep was SO brilliantly done  in my opinion. I loved how Cindy was unapologetically herself and that she didn’t doubt whether the love interest was into her due to her weight. This never even came into their relationship and I really liked that. I also liked how she handled fatphobia and the issues around sizing in the fashion industry - it provided great insight and context without having a overly negative plot about her weight. She also had NO desire to lose weight or change who she was - let’s celebrate this more please! I love seeing people who are happy in their own skin and embracing who they are, and this was personally my favourite element of this great book. 
Overall I really enjoyed it, despite not being super invested in the love story, and definitely recommend! 
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