Originally Posted on IceyBooks

I'm always on the lookout for the next unforgettable read. For the book that will leave me breathless, that will linger in my mind, and will leave me begging for more.

I've found it. In six letters. Between the covers of a book with a red slipper. I've found it in Cinder. The year 2012 hasn't even begun yet, and I already have a 2012 favorite.

To describe Cinder as a futuristic retelling of Cinderella would probably be a lie. Because its more than that. Despite the elements of Cinderella, Cinder is something else. Cyborgs, politics, people who live on the moon, Cinder is most definitely something else. Something that will leave your mind boggling. Something that will leave you with one question: how did she think of that??

Marissa Meyer weaves a story unlike any other in the pages of her debut novel. Not a word in all of 387 pages is wasted. And you won't want to skip a single one.

Cinder is New Beijing's best mechanic - its no secret if even Prince Kaito of the Commonwealth seeks her service. The prince takes a liking to Cinder from the very beginning, but Cinder knows it will never work. If he knew what she really was - a frowned upon, disdained cyborg, he would regret his every word with her.

Yet Cinder is strong. Her hardcore character emanates from her every decision. And despite the horrible way her stepmother treats her, she still finds comfort in her work. She still finds a way to hope and live in a world dying from an incurable plague.

The subject of the Lunars fascinated me. The fact that Meyer takes the notion of 'men on the moon' and churns it into people residing on the moon with the ability to alter bioelectricity to their will - or brainwash - was pure genius.

Cinder is a must-read. Marissa Meyer's debut will captivate you from the very first words and linger in your mind long after the last page is turned. Unputdownable, unbelievable, and incredible. If you ever find yourself in need of a reason to rush to your nearest bookstore this January, Cinder should be it.