Princess of Glass

Princess of Glass takes the familiar Cinderella tale and transforms it into a fantasy novel set in the world of the Twelve Dancing Princesses. Princess Poppy of Westfalin travels to Breton as part of a diplomatic exchange program, bringing her talent for cards and her firm refusal to dance after the traumas of her past. The story centers around a maid named Ellen, whose misfortunes have left her working in service, and Prince Christian of the Danelaw who becomes entangled in a dangerous magical plot. A dark creature known as the Corley emerges with promises and schemes that threaten the peace of Breton. Through magic, politics, and complex relationships, Princess Poppy must navigate court life while confronting a supernatural threat. The story interweaves elements of the classic Cinderella fairytale with new twists and darker undertones. The novel explores themes of pride, redemption, and the true nature of magic - both its allure and its dangers. It challenges traditional fairytale roles and examines how past trauma shapes present choices.

Readers found this Cinderella retelling lighter and more romantic than the first book in the series. Many appreciated the creative magical elements and the reversal of traditional fairy tale roles. Positives: - Fresh take on the glass slipper concept - Strong character development for Poppy - Engaging romance without being overly predictable - Clear and flowing writing style Negatives: - Less complex plot compared to Princess of the Midnight Ball - Some found the protagonist less likeable than Rose from book 1 - A few readers mentioned the romance felt rushed - Several noted the ending wrapped up too quickly Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (17,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (180+ reviews) Barnes & Noble: 4.4/5 (50+ reviews) One reader noted: "The magic system involving knitting continues to be unique and well-thought-out." Another commented: "While entertaining, it doesn't quite capture the dark fairy tale atmosphere of the first book."

Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix A servant girl mistaken for Cinderella navigates palace politics while uncovering dark truths about the prince and the kingdom.

Entwined by Heather Dixon Twelve princesses deal with magic, curses, and forbidden dances in this retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses.

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale A crown princess becomes a goose girl after her identity is stolen and must reclaim her birthright through magic and determination.

Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale A maid locked in a tower with her princess mistress records their struggle for survival and escape in her chronicles.

The Rose and the Dagger by Renée Ahdieh A retelling of 1001 Nights follows a young woman who uses magic and wit to save her kingdom while navigating palace intrigue.

🌟 The book is the second installment in the Princess series, following "Princess of the Midnight Ball," which was based on "The Twelve Dancing Princesses" fairy tale. 🌟 Author Jessica Day George worked as a librarian before becoming a full-time writer and has published over 15 books for young readers. 🌟 The Corley character draws from lesser-known European folklore about malevolent fairy godmothers who grant wishes with dangerous consequences. 🌟 Princess Poppy's aversion to dancing stems from events in the previous book, where she and her sisters were cursed to dance every night in an underground palace. 🌟 The novel's setting, Breton, is inspired by the real-world region of Brittany in France, which has its own rich tradition of fairy tales and folklore.