Ash & Bramble

Another Cinderella reimagining read for class. I liked this one quite a bit, with its references to other fairy tales, occasionally creepy imagery, and a pretty well-developed cast for what it is. I think it dragged a bit in the middle and then seemed rushed at the end, but overall it was a strong entry into fractured fairy tales for a YA audience.

I must note that I hatehateHATE love triangles, but the one in this one didn't bother me as much; to me, it served a narrative purpose (the importance of choice versus perceived destiny, etc.) and wasn't just there to add padding to the plot. I don't think it's meant as any surprise who she chooses, and I like that she doesn't apologize to either of them for being hesitant. It does slightly play into the normal love triangle cliches, but overall it tends to subvert them, if not outright ignore them.

Even though it's not the focus, I also appreciate the inclusion of lgbt+ relationships! That was nice, though I wish they had more development.

Overall, a 3.5 bumped up to a 4 because I liked Pen and of course fell in love with Shoe.