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Marie and the Mouse King #1
Sugar and Snow
The Nutcracker is back—but so is the Mouse King, and now she must choose between them...
No one believes Marie’s story about her magical journey with the Nutcracker Prince. She’s even started to doubt it herself. But then her brother Fritz brings his fellow cavalrymen home for the family’s annual Christmas party—and one of them demands she return the Mouse King’s seven crowns to him. The Nutcracker finally reappears, and the familiar battle lines are drawn, but is Marie on the same side she was before? How can the Mouse King be so intriguing, and the Nutcracker so disappointing? And when Marie’s niece Clara disappears, can she trust the Mouse King to help get Clara back—or is he still set on revenge?
If you’re into villain redemptions and fairy tale retellings, if you find Labyrinth to be a very intriguing film, if a book needs to have fencing, fighting, revenge, giants, chases, escapes, true love, and miracles in addition to kissy bits to hold your attention, then you’ll love this fantasy novel. Revisit everyone’s favorite holiday fantasy, and learn who the real heroes and villains are!
No one believes Marie’s story about her magical journey with the Nutcracker Prince. She’s even started to doubt it herself. But then her brother Fritz brings his fellow cavalrymen home for the family’s annual Christmas party—and one of them demands she return the Mouse King’s seven crowns to him. The Nutcracker finally reappears, and the familiar battle lines are drawn, but is Marie on the same side she was before? How can the Mouse King be so intriguing, and the Nutcracker so disappointing? And when Marie’s niece Clara disappears, can she trust the Mouse King to help get Clara back—or is he still set on revenge?
If you’re into villain redemptions and fairy tale retellings, if you find Labyrinth to be a very intriguing film, if a book needs to have fencing, fighting, revenge, giants, chases, escapes, true love, and miracles in addition to kissy bits to hold your attention, then you’ll love this fantasy novel. Revisit everyone’s favorite holiday fantasy, and learn who the real heroes and villains are!
ebook
First published November 18, 2021
102 people are currently reading
898 people want to read
About the author
Irene Davis
8 books17 followersIrene Davis was raised in the wilds of Alaska, where she spent winter nights huddled in bed reading fairy tales. She has since lived on three different continents and read many, many more fairy tales while also collecting a surprising amount of knowledge about salmon, Soviet animation, and improvised self defense weapons. Currently, she can be found in a Seattle coffee shop, where she works on novels in between research rabbit holes and conversations with strangers about how handsome her dog is.
Join Irene's newsletter for updates on her writing, book recs, and research tidbits. http://www.irenedavisbooks.com/newsle...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
November 3, 2021
A strong 3.5
Quick Look:
👍 Enemies (rivals?) to Lovers
👍 Slow burn
👍 Soft/charming romance
👍 Fairy tale retelling
A nice short book that I absolutely slammed through, Sugar and Snow is a nutcracker retelling that has a redemption arc for the Mouse King- and yes, he is a human person by the time Marie meets him again as an adult.
Marie has lived with her adventures with the Nutcracker, though he never came back to claim her as his princess and took her away to his kingdom. Now, the Mouse King is back for revenge and gets tangled up with Marie and the abduction of her niece Clara. The two travel back to the Land of Sweets to rescue her, only for her to realize there is more to his story than the villain she remembers.
This story is extremely sweet, and it was a great blend of contemporary romance/historical romances enemies to lovers (no trying to kill each other here, but deep dislike) The prose is gentle and fairytale-like while being quite mature. It was easy to read but didn't feel too juvenile, and honored the original story.
I am not shocked the author is a romance writer rather than a SFF writer because while this does have magic, it reads a lot more like a historical romance. This is not actually a bad thing, but anyone looking for that SFF ~vibe~ may be disappointed. I thought it worked extremely well.
My criticisms are that Marie is not a super fleshed-out character, and though her romance is written slowly, I would have liked it fleshed out more. The scenes were very cute and enough to keep me reading though.
Additionally, this is meant to be a series but I think would be best as a stand alone.
If you are looking for a villain gets the girl romance, this is a great one.
Quick Look:
👍 Enemies (rivals?) to Lovers
👍 Slow burn
👍 Soft/charming romance
👍 Fairy tale retelling
A nice short book that I absolutely slammed through, Sugar and Snow is a nutcracker retelling that has a redemption arc for the Mouse King- and yes, he is a human person by the time Marie meets him again as an adult.
Marie has lived with her adventures with the Nutcracker, though he never came back to claim her as his princess and took her away to his kingdom. Now, the Mouse King is back for revenge and gets tangled up with Marie and the abduction of her niece Clara. The two travel back to the Land of Sweets to rescue her, only for her to realize there is more to his story than the villain she remembers.
This story is extremely sweet, and it was a great blend of contemporary romance/historical romances enemies to lovers (no trying to kill each other here, but deep dislike) The prose is gentle and fairytale-like while being quite mature. It was easy to read but didn't feel too juvenile, and honored the original story.
I am not shocked the author is a romance writer rather than a SFF writer because while this does have magic, it reads a lot more like a historical romance. This is not actually a bad thing, but anyone looking for that SFF ~vibe~ may be disappointed. I thought it worked extremely well.
My criticisms are that Marie is not a super fleshed-out character, and though her romance is written slowly, I would have liked it fleshed out more. The scenes were very cute and enough to keep me reading though.
Additionally, this is meant to be a series but I think would be best as a stand alone.
If you are looking for a villain gets the girl romance, this is a great one.
November 22, 2021
This book is my absolute everything. Don't wait, just go read this. Like, now. Why are you still here? *shooing motions*
I absolutely love Sugar and Snow, and immediately upon finishing I wasn't sure which I want more - the next book, or to start back at the beginning and read this one again! This is the first book in a trilogy, but it ends in such a way that it could be a stand-alone (so no cliffhangers, yay!) I have a deep and abiding love for The Nutcracker and am so here for all the quality Nutcracker content, and I also love a good villain, so when I saw this is a bit of a love triangle between Marie, the Nutcracker, and the Mouse King you'd better believe I had high hopes! And I'm so pleased to report those hopes were met AND THEN SOME.
I love genre romance and I love fantasy, so I am always on the lookout for a great fantasy romance. The tender buds of the relationship between Marie and Lang are so wonderful in this, and I can't wait to see how their relationship continues to grow in the next book. I also really love the research Irene Davis put into this book, and her notes in the Author's Note gave me some great resources to check out the original story. I haven't read the original story (I didn't know there was one! Just the ballet, whaaaaat) but there is enough information implanted into Sugar and Snow that even not knowing all the origin story (like the Nutcracker's curse and the story of the Mouse Queen) wasn't a detriment because enough information was so seamlessly woven into the story that I thought it was entirely the author's invention! (Now that's skill.)
As I said this is book 1 in a trilogy - here is the planned release schedule for all three books. I CANNOT WAIT for Hawk and Hound!!
Book 1: Sugar and Snow (Available November 18, 2021)
Book 2: Hawk and Hound (Available July 2022)
Book 3: Curse and Crown (Available November 2022)
A digital ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
I absolutely love Sugar and Snow, and immediately upon finishing I wasn't sure which I want more - the next book, or to start back at the beginning and read this one again! This is the first book in a trilogy, but it ends in such a way that it could be a stand-alone (so no cliffhangers, yay!) I have a deep and abiding love for The Nutcracker and am so here for all the quality Nutcracker content, and I also love a good villain, so when I saw this is a bit of a love triangle between Marie, the Nutcracker, and the Mouse King you'd better believe I had high hopes! And I'm so pleased to report those hopes were met AND THEN SOME.
I love genre romance and I love fantasy, so I am always on the lookout for a great fantasy romance. The tender buds of the relationship between Marie and Lang are so wonderful in this, and I can't wait to see how their relationship continues to grow in the next book. I also really love the research Irene Davis put into this book, and her notes in the Author's Note gave me some great resources to check out the original story. I haven't read the original story (I didn't know there was one! Just the ballet, whaaaaat) but there is enough information implanted into Sugar and Snow that even not knowing all the origin story (like the Nutcracker's curse and the story of the Mouse Queen) wasn't a detriment because enough information was so seamlessly woven into the story that I thought it was entirely the author's invention! (Now that's skill.)
As I said this is book 1 in a trilogy - here is the planned release schedule for all three books. I CANNOT WAIT for Hawk and Hound!!
Book 1: Sugar and Snow (Available November 18, 2021)
Book 2: Hawk and Hound (Available July 2022)
Book 3: Curse and Crown (Available November 2022)
A digital ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
January 2, 2023
unfortunately, i just didn’t enjoy this book. i thought that is was just very slow, for being such a short book. like, not much happened until halfway though and even then, i felt like the plot and conflict needed to be edited/worked on more. i also just didn’t enjoy the writing style. and while i thought that it was interesting that the author chose to base the story on the original e.t.a hoffman book, i felt that it relied too much on the original text and that you really had to have read the original story beforehand. i have read the original nutcracker story, but even still was kind of confused at points.also the romance wasn’t very good and some parts were just weird.
June 1, 2025
4/5 stars
Overall a SUPER CUTE Christmas-y book....yes I know it is not Christmas rn, but can we say it's close enough to that Christmas in July cliche? Whatever the time of year, it did not stop me from enjoying all the cute scenes! Definitely would recommend reading it during the holidays though for even more vibes.
My only issue was that because of the short length of the book, I didn't have as much of a connection to the characters, which is something I need to make it a 5 star read. Did I still really enjoy it taking into consideration that it was just a shorter book?? Heck yes!
I loved that it pulled from the actual historical story of the nutcracker and that background. It was very cool to learn about and you could tell the author TRULY did her research!! At times the background of Lang got a tad confusing, but by the end it was mostly cleared up!
It's very hard to find good Nutcracker retellings (see my review for Kingdom of the Sweets, which was the worst book I've ever read), but I would definitely recommend this book if you love the Nutcracker! I originally bought it for my sister and just random found it online, definitely not well known and deserves some more appreciation, especially for the short book that it is!
Overall a SUPER CUTE Christmas-y book....yes I know it is not Christmas rn, but can we say it's close enough to that Christmas in July cliche? Whatever the time of year, it did not stop me from enjoying all the cute scenes! Definitely would recommend reading it during the holidays though for even more vibes.
My only issue was that because of the short length of the book, I didn't have as much of a connection to the characters, which is something I need to make it a 5 star read. Did I still really enjoy it taking into consideration that it was just a shorter book?? Heck yes!
I loved that it pulled from the actual historical story of the nutcracker and that background. It was very cool to learn about and you could tell the author TRULY did her research!! At times the background of Lang got a tad confusing, but by the end it was mostly cleared up!
It's very hard to find good Nutcracker retellings (see my review for Kingdom of the Sweets, which was the worst book I've ever read), but I would definitely recommend this book if you love the Nutcracker! I originally bought it for my sister and just random found it online, definitely not well known and deserves some more appreciation, especially for the short book that it is!
December 15, 2024
An enemies to lovers quick holiday romance? Sign me up
November 21, 2021
Marie is waiting for the nutcracker on Christmas eve when Lieutenant Lang enters the picture. Soon she's on a whirlwind adventure trying to save her neice Clara from the person you'd expect least.
The synopsis had me from the start and I knew I had to read this story. I love the Nutcracker, and this retelling was exactly what I wanted. I loved the characters and how whimsical everything was. The story telling from the author is spot on, and they have a way of pulling you in to their story so you never want it to end.
I would have liked to see a little less monologue and more action/interaction with the characters, but the story overall was fun and fantastic.
The synopsis had me from the start and I knew I had to read this story. I love the Nutcracker, and this retelling was exactly what I wanted. I loved the characters and how whimsical everything was. The story telling from the author is spot on, and they have a way of pulling you in to their story so you never want it to end.
I would have liked to see a little less monologue and more action/interaction with the characters, but the story overall was fun and fantastic.
November 18, 2021
A Nutcracker retelling? Please count me in!!!
I watch my favorite Nutcracker ballet every year, my favorite since childhood, and I'm glad I was able to get a copy of this book just a few days before publishing day.
I was not expecting the plot twists (I guess I didn't pay too much attention to the blurb jaja) and I really like it! Definitely going to buy it! It's a nice and romantic story about Marie and the Mouse King, which is the first of a trilogy. Can't wait for July for the second part.
The base is the original story by Russian author E.T.A. Hoffmann, which makes sense for this retelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the oportunity to read this great book.
I watch my favorite Nutcracker ballet every year, my favorite since childhood, and I'm glad I was able to get a copy of this book just a few days before publishing day.
I was not expecting the plot twists (I guess I didn't pay too much attention to the blurb jaja) and I really like it! Definitely going to buy it! It's a nice and romantic story about Marie and the Mouse King, which is the first of a trilogy. Can't wait for July for the second part.
The base is the original story by Russian author E.T.A. Hoffmann, which makes sense for this retelling.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for the oportunity to read this great book.
December 17, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for this eARC.
*** contains spoilers***
When I saw this novel and read the synopsis I knew I had to read it.
I love the story of the Nutcracker and I loved the take on that story with a twist.
This story starts with Marie on Christmas Eve still waiting for the Nutcracker to return. It had been 10 years and he had not returned as of yet.
On Christmas Eve Marie meets Lieutenant Lang, a soldier friend of her brother, A possible love interest. He seems odd and you know there's an underlying reason for this. What I wasn't expecting is who he turned out to be. The story then turns into an adventure to rescue Clara - Marie's niece, from the clutches of the one person you wouldn't expect.
The familiar Nutcracker story is present at the beginning of the novel but that changes after a few chapters and the story takes on a new role.
I really loved this version taking on Marie's adventure with the Mouse King.
The fact that the Nutcracker isn't as heroic as we first thought and the moments when you expect it to be revealed that is all a dream, left me with many "ooh" moments.
The authors writing is lovely and the novel just wraps you up and takes you on a magical and cosy journey, I couldn't put it down.
I'm so pleased to know that there is a sequel and I can't wait to read it as I really want to know if Marie and Lang got their happily ever after.
*** contains spoilers***
When I saw this novel and read the synopsis I knew I had to read it.
I love the story of the Nutcracker and I loved the take on that story with a twist.
This story starts with Marie on Christmas Eve still waiting for the Nutcracker to return. It had been 10 years and he had not returned as of yet.
On Christmas Eve Marie meets Lieutenant Lang, a soldier friend of her brother, A possible love interest. He seems odd and you know there's an underlying reason for this. What I wasn't expecting is who he turned out to be. The story then turns into an adventure to rescue Clara - Marie's niece, from the clutches of the one person you wouldn't expect.
The familiar Nutcracker story is present at the beginning of the novel but that changes after a few chapters and the story takes on a new role.
I really loved this version taking on Marie's adventure with the Mouse King.
The fact that the Nutcracker isn't as heroic as we first thought and the moments when you expect it to be revealed that is all a dream, left me with many "ooh" moments.
The authors writing is lovely and the novel just wraps you up and takes you on a magical and cosy journey, I couldn't put it down.
I'm so pleased to know that there is a sequel and I can't wait to read it as I really want to know if Marie and Lang got their happily ever after.
December 4, 2022
WHY isn't Bookstagram all over this one?!
I had high expectations for Sugar and Snow and they were ALL met! <3
My Nutcracker obsession is rivaled only by my Hocus Pocus obsession and when I read the blurb for this novella (Mouse King is actually the good guy? Nutcracker isn't the hero?! Drosselmeier is the baddie?!??!) Germany at snowy Christmastime (bonus!) I had to read it asap.
This is the first mini adventure of three, with creative descriptions and fast-paced action smattered with swoony gems such as, "If he touches me again, he'll leave an imprint that I'll be aware of until the end of my days." or, "Monster, whisper my memories. Man, say my eyes." (!!!)
Looking forward to Books 2 & 3!
I had high expectations for Sugar and Snow and they were ALL met! <3
My Nutcracker obsession is rivaled only by my Hocus Pocus obsession and when I read the blurb for this novella (Mouse King is actually the good guy? Nutcracker isn't the hero?! Drosselmeier is the baddie?!??!) Germany at snowy Christmastime (bonus!) I had to read it asap.
This is the first mini adventure of three, with creative descriptions and fast-paced action smattered with swoony gems such as, "If he touches me again, he'll leave an imprint that I'll be aware of until the end of my days." or, "Monster, whisper my memories. Man, say my eyes." (!!!)
Looking forward to Books 2 & 3!
December 29, 2023
Since the author at the end of the book asked for a feedback, I'm gonna deliver. I've been in a reading slump for quite a bit and this book is what got me out of it. It is a great retelling with a twist that made me like the Nutcracker even more. It's rather short so you can easily devour it in one single sitting. It's really sweet and I just loved both MCs. It could work as a standalone if you're wondering, but I just bought the whole trilogy and gonna read it soon. Thank you Irene for creating such a wonderful story.
September 29, 2023
I quite enjoyed this book. I really like the nutcracker story and this had a twist to it, which I actually loved. It was interesting. Also really love the main characters, really like them together, they are quite cute. And overall enjoyed the story.
Read
April 10, 2024DNF- Maybe I’ll revisit this one in the Winter
December 29, 2021
This story was a sweet take on the nutcracker tale. Initially, I was slightly disappointed because I think it is difficult to "re-tell" or "continue" a classic story and not disappoint the reader. Especially if it is a story the reader already loves. However, I stuck with it and now I'm very glad I did. It was sweet, exciting and fun.
November 3, 2021
This is a charming book that was a fast paced easy read.
Intended as a sequel of sorts to The Nutcracker, an 18 year Clara is still waiting for him to return and make her a princess in the Kingdom of Dolls, but then she meets the Mouse King and learns that perhaps the Nutcracker isn't quite who she thought he was.
Clara seemed a bit bland to me, not quite rounded and a very traditional heroine who only started becoming fleshed out towards the end.
Am looking forward to the sequel, as hopefully Clara's wings will spread and she'll start to get more exciting
Intended as a sequel of sorts to The Nutcracker, an 18 year Clara is still waiting for him to return and make her a princess in the Kingdom of Dolls, but then she meets the Mouse King and learns that perhaps the Nutcracker isn't quite who she thought he was.
Clara seemed a bit bland to me, not quite rounded and a very traditional heroine who only started becoming fleshed out towards the end.
Am looking forward to the sequel, as hopefully Clara's wings will spread and she'll start to get more exciting
November 30, 2021
A retelling of the beloved ballet the Nutcracker, Sugar and Snow is a lushly detailed, vividly descriptive book that sucks us into the land of the sweets. This book is more of a retelling of the original story, versus the stage ballet, but fans of both will enjoy this. There is an underlying romance but not very heavy in the plot.
Marie has been home for 10 years after going to the land of the sweets, now and adult. Marie is still waiting for her Nutcracker Prince to return for her, but he never shows. On Christmas Eve, Marie meets her brother's friend Lt. Lang. Her niece, Clara, is taken and she must journey back to the land of the sweets to rescue her. Lang is along for the ride, but he isn't who he appears to be.
There is a great redemption arc for the Mouse King, betrayals and danger, enemies to lovers and more. The story isn't very deep, which works fine for a retelling. It is a fun holiday treat to read this and is enjoyable. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Marie has been home for 10 years after going to the land of the sweets, now and adult. Marie is still waiting for her Nutcracker Prince to return for her, but he never shows. On Christmas Eve, Marie meets her brother's friend Lt. Lang. Her niece, Clara, is taken and she must journey back to the land of the sweets to rescue her. Lang is along for the ride, but he isn't who he appears to be.
There is a great redemption arc for the Mouse King, betrayals and danger, enemies to lovers and more. The story isn't very deep, which works fine for a retelling. It is a fun holiday treat to read this and is enjoyable. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
November 3, 2024
Perfectly Sweet
Spice Rating: RCRS 2 (holding hands and mild kissing)
A lovely, easy to read, concise imagining of what would happen if the mouse king and nutcracker returned as men in Marie’s life once she has grown up.
I am a sucker for a “villain gets the girl” story, especially if that villain isn’t a villain at all and merely misunderstood. Angry and alone, the mouse king returns to reclaim his crowns from Marie. But when her hero, the nutcracker arrives on his heels, and her niece Clara goes missing, Marie finds herself drawn to the mouse king for help - trusting him to help her. While he is bent on vengeance, something about Marie calls to him and softens him a little… or maybe a lot…
Do yourself a favour and gobble up this festive treat! It’s light, sweet and gentle. But it’s also fun, has a pretty badass FMC, and will leave you with warm fuzzies.
Spice Rating: RCRS 2 (holding hands and mild kissing)
A lovely, easy to read, concise imagining of what would happen if the mouse king and nutcracker returned as men in Marie’s life once she has grown up.
I am a sucker for a “villain gets the girl” story, especially if that villain isn’t a villain at all and merely misunderstood. Angry and alone, the mouse king returns to reclaim his crowns from Marie. But when her hero, the nutcracker arrives on his heels, and her niece Clara goes missing, Marie finds herself drawn to the mouse king for help - trusting him to help her. While he is bent on vengeance, something about Marie calls to him and softens him a little… or maybe a lot…
Do yourself a favour and gobble up this festive treat! It’s light, sweet and gentle. But it’s also fun, has a pretty badass FMC, and will leave you with warm fuzzies.
April 1, 2024
Dit boek is té leuk om te lezen in de kerstperiode 🎅🏼🎄 Als je de Nutcracker niet kent is het goed om eerst dat verhaal te kennen, want dit verhaal gaat verder waar de Nutcracker eindigt en er zijn veelllll verwijzingen.
December 27, 2023
Dk if I’m gonna read the second and third but it was cute
Edit: 4.5 I keep thinking about it so it definitely deserves higher than 3 jfjfjfjfj
Edit: 4.5 I keep thinking about it so it definitely deserves higher than 3 jfjfjfjfj
December 25, 2021
"I've seen many curses, but you maybe the first blessing I have known."
You're telling me the bad guy turns out to be the good guy and gets the girl? YES PLEASE! You're telling me the bad guy was actually misunderstood and has a tragic past? Yes Please!
Sugar and Snow is a retelling of E.T.A. Hoffman's The Nutcracker and The Mouse King, which was later turned into a ballet. The Mouse King was defeated by the Nutcracker and he had promised little Marie to come back and take her to the Kingdom of Dolls. But what if the Nutcracker had just been a person luring kids to the dream of a fairytale with no guarantee of happiness? What if Godfather was doing something sketchy in the Kingdom of Dolls? What if The Mouse King was the real hero? What if everything sweet (literally and metaphorically) about the Kingdom of Dolls came with a price to be paid? With the conglomeration of all these fascinating ideas, the author has woven a plot full of adventure, romance and Christmas vibes. The good thing? It doesn't end with just this book, we've got sequels coming our way.
Initially, the character of Marie lacked a substantial amount of the main character vibes. But as we turn pages, she develops into a badass young woman who leads the way and from a Victorian romance scenario, things get a little spark and it blooms. Though, one might notice that the adventure is heavier than the romance.
Often stories with the theme of time lapse cut some slack on mentioning some realistic details, it becomes fantastical and not relatable. But our author, very tactfully deals with the situation here and mentions that the physiological changes were going on in their own pace even if the time in both worlds were different. Very small detail, but brings out the beauty of the plot. The plot becomes heavy on symbolism as well.
Overall, this book kept me hooked. With great anticipation of more adventures and the little tang of romance, this book was the perfect blend. I'm very eagerly looking forward to read the second part of this fantastical journey.
Recommended to: anyone looking for Christmassy books, enemies to lovers trope, bad guy gets the girl trope, fairytale retelling.
You're telling me the bad guy turns out to be the good guy and gets the girl? YES PLEASE! You're telling me the bad guy was actually misunderstood and has a tragic past? Yes Please!
Sugar and Snow is a retelling of E.T.A. Hoffman's The Nutcracker and The Mouse King, which was later turned into a ballet. The Mouse King was defeated by the Nutcracker and he had promised little Marie to come back and take her to the Kingdom of Dolls. But what if the Nutcracker had just been a person luring kids to the dream of a fairytale with no guarantee of happiness? What if Godfather was doing something sketchy in the Kingdom of Dolls? What if The Mouse King was the real hero? What if everything sweet (literally and metaphorically) about the Kingdom of Dolls came with a price to be paid? With the conglomeration of all these fascinating ideas, the author has woven a plot full of adventure, romance and Christmas vibes. The good thing? It doesn't end with just this book, we've got sequels coming our way.
Initially, the character of Marie lacked a substantial amount of the main character vibes. But as we turn pages, she develops into a badass young woman who leads the way and from a Victorian romance scenario, things get a little spark and it blooms. Though, one might notice that the adventure is heavier than the romance.
Often stories with the theme of time lapse cut some slack on mentioning some realistic details, it becomes fantastical and not relatable. But our author, very tactfully deals with the situation here and mentions that the physiological changes were going on in their own pace even if the time in both worlds were different. Very small detail, but brings out the beauty of the plot. The plot becomes heavy on symbolism as well.
Overall, this book kept me hooked. With great anticipation of more adventures and the little tang of romance, this book was the perfect blend. I'm very eagerly looking forward to read the second part of this fantastical journey.
Recommended to: anyone looking for Christmassy books, enemies to lovers trope, bad guy gets the girl trope, fairytale retelling.
December 24, 2024
**Rating: Strong 3/5**
**Quick Look:**
👍 Enemies to Lovers
👍 Slow Burn
👍 Soft/Charming Romance
👍 Fairy Tale Retelling
"Sugar and Snow" is a delightful retelling of the Nutcracker that I read in no time. The story features a redemption arc for the Mouse King, who, by the time Marie meets him again as an adult, has transformed into a human.
Marie has carried her memories of her adventures with the Nutcracker, even though he never returned to claim her as his princess and take her to his kingdom. Now, the Mouse King is back seeking revenge and becomes entangled with Marie in the abduction of her niece, Clara. The two travel back to the Land of Sweets to rescue her, and Marie soon realizes there is more to the Mouse King's story than the villain she once perceived.
This story is incredibly sweet, blending contemporary and historical romance with a strong enemies-to-lovers dynamic (though there’s no intense animosity, just a deep-seated dislike). The prose is gentle and fairy-tale-like while maintaining a mature tone. It’s easy to read without feeling too juvenile, and it honors the original story beautifully.
It's not surprising that the author is primarily a romance writer rather than a speculative fiction writer. While there is magic in the story, it reads more like a historical romance, which I think works really well. Readers seeking a more traditional fantasy vibe might be disappointed, but I found it to be a refreshing take.
One criticism I have is that Marie isn’t a deeply developed character, and while her romance unfolds slowly, I would have appreciated more depth. The scenes were charming and engaging enough to keep me invested.
Lastly, while this is intended to be a series, I believe it works best as a standalone.
If you're looking for a charming villain-gets-the-girl romance, this is a wonderful choice.
**Quick Look:**
👍 Enemies to Lovers
👍 Slow Burn
👍 Soft/Charming Romance
👍 Fairy Tale Retelling
"Sugar and Snow" is a delightful retelling of the Nutcracker that I read in no time. The story features a redemption arc for the Mouse King, who, by the time Marie meets him again as an adult, has transformed into a human.
Marie has carried her memories of her adventures with the Nutcracker, even though he never returned to claim her as his princess and take her to his kingdom. Now, the Mouse King is back seeking revenge and becomes entangled with Marie in the abduction of her niece, Clara. The two travel back to the Land of Sweets to rescue her, and Marie soon realizes there is more to the Mouse King's story than the villain she once perceived.
This story is incredibly sweet, blending contemporary and historical romance with a strong enemies-to-lovers dynamic (though there’s no intense animosity, just a deep-seated dislike). The prose is gentle and fairy-tale-like while maintaining a mature tone. It’s easy to read without feeling too juvenile, and it honors the original story beautifully.
It's not surprising that the author is primarily a romance writer rather than a speculative fiction writer. While there is magic in the story, it reads more like a historical romance, which I think works really well. Readers seeking a more traditional fantasy vibe might be disappointed, but I found it to be a refreshing take.
One criticism I have is that Marie isn’t a deeply developed character, and while her romance unfolds slowly, I would have appreciated more depth. The scenes were charming and engaging enough to keep me invested.
Lastly, while this is intended to be a series, I believe it works best as a standalone.
If you're looking for a charming villain-gets-the-girl romance, this is a wonderful choice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2021
Marie is eighteen years old now, but she’s never forgotten the journey to the Kingdom of Dolls she took when she was seven - or her handsome Nutcracker Prince. No one has ever believed her story, so Marie has learned to keep quiet and hold hope close to heart instead. Marie’s world is turned upside down when her prince and the Mouse King she thought was dead suddenly come back into her life.
But when her niece, Clara, is taken, Marie is determined to get her back. Along the way, she finds herself allied with the man she once thought was her enemy, the Mouse King. But as they journey through the place Marie had begun to think existed only in her dreams, begins to re-examine everything she thought she knew about the Mouse King - and the Nutcracker Prince.
Holy cow!!! I cannot even begin to express how much I loved this retelling of The Nutcracker. As an ex dancer, I spent many years dancing in the ballet of the same name, and Davis’ version did not disappoint!!! I loved how she expanded on Drosselmeier’s creepiness and created this magically unique world. The world building was exquisite, and the storytelling had me hooked from the start!!!
Marie. She’s such a stubborn, strong young lady, and I love her for it. She’s also a bit of a dreamer, but she’s willing to fight for what she believes in and the people she cared about. Lang. I loved his character so much! He was brusque and surly at times, but there is so much more to him than I first thought! By the end, I truly admired him, and I loved him and Marie together. I can’t wait for the next book!!!
But when her niece, Clara, is taken, Marie is determined to get her back. Along the way, she finds herself allied with the man she once thought was her enemy, the Mouse King. But as they journey through the place Marie had begun to think existed only in her dreams, begins to re-examine everything she thought she knew about the Mouse King - and the Nutcracker Prince.
Holy cow!!! I cannot even begin to express how much I loved this retelling of The Nutcracker. As an ex dancer, I spent many years dancing in the ballet of the same name, and Davis’ version did not disappoint!!! I loved how she expanded on Drosselmeier’s creepiness and created this magically unique world. The world building was exquisite, and the storytelling had me hooked from the start!!!
Marie. She’s such a stubborn, strong young lady, and I love her for it. She’s also a bit of a dreamer, but she’s willing to fight for what she believes in and the people she cared about. Lang. I loved his character so much! He was brusque and surly at times, but there is so much more to him than I first thought! By the end, I truly admired him, and I loved him and Marie together. I can’t wait for the next book!!!
September 25, 2023
Of all the Nutcracker retellings I've read, this one is my favorite!
This story gave me something I didn't know I needed, a hero in the redeemed Mouse King. Growing up, seeing the performances (being in them, especially as a toy soldier), the Mouse King was the evil of the story.
I never thought that the Mouse King should be redeemed until I read the original story and read the other version where he was played as the villains.
Reading them, I got very bored with the story, I was recommended this on my Kindle, so I rolled my eyes a bit, but then I started reading...
MY OH MY!
This greatly exceeded my expectations! I devoured this as quickly as I could, wanting more and more of this, needing to read more of Marie and Lang's story.
It was the perfect amount of sweetness and tension for me, which is welcome after all the other books I've read recently.
It was nice to see the magical realm again, but this time from an older person's eyes. Of all the descriptions of the Land of Dolls, this one has been my favorite.
Having the Nutcracker portrayed as a coward was a bit of a shock for me, but it was a welcome one. As Marie stated, he was just a boy. He didn't know how to be King. Or how to be a companion. I hope, though, that he does get a happily ever after of some kind.
The plot was a bit rushed, but it was rushed in a good way, if that makes any sense. It was the perfect length and perhaps I enjoyed it so much it didn't seem that long to me?
I can't wait to read the next book in the series! I need to know what happens next for Marie and the Mouse King!
This story gave me something I didn't know I needed, a hero in the redeemed Mouse King. Growing up, seeing the performances (being in them, especially as a toy soldier), the Mouse King was the evil of the story.
I never thought that the Mouse King should be redeemed until I read the original story and read the other version where he was played as the villains.
Reading them, I got very bored with the story, I was recommended this on my Kindle, so I rolled my eyes a bit, but then I started reading...
MY OH MY!
This greatly exceeded my expectations! I devoured this as quickly as I could, wanting more and more of this, needing to read more of Marie and Lang's story.
It was the perfect amount of sweetness and tension for me, which is welcome after all the other books I've read recently.
It was nice to see the magical realm again, but this time from an older person's eyes. Of all the descriptions of the Land of Dolls, this one has been my favorite.
Having the Nutcracker portrayed as a coward was a bit of a shock for me, but it was a welcome one. As Marie stated, he was just a boy. He didn't know how to be King. Or how to be a companion. I hope, though, that he does get a happily ever after of some kind.
The plot was a bit rushed, but it was rushed in a good way, if that makes any sense. It was the perfect length and perhaps I enjoyed it so much it didn't seem that long to me?
I can't wait to read the next book in the series! I need to know what happens next for Marie and the Mouse King!
November 23, 2021
* Thanks to NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review! *
I'm a simple gal. I see a fairytale retelling on Goodreads and I add it to my tbr. Easy. I've loved the Nutcracker since I was a kid- especially the Barbie adaptation. I saw this on NetGalley and requested it *immediately*.
This was such a fun book to read. It has rivals to lovers, a super dreamy fairytale setting, and of course it's set in a time where a woman adventuring alone with a man who isn't family is scandalous.
The story takes place a decade or so after the original story of the Nutcracker takes place, and ever since then Marie has been dreaming of the day that her Nutcracker Prince will return for her to take her back to the Kingdom of Dolls. Of course, no one in her family believes her when she speaks of her prince and the kingdom. When her niece Clara goes missing Marie knows that the Nutcracker has taken her to the Kingdom of Dolls, and she knows that she has to bring her back.
I loooooved the characters. Especially Lang. Except for when his mustache was mentioned. I kept imagining him without one and when I was reminded that he has a mustache my imagination wasn't as fun.
Marie was a fun protagonist. I love that she was a little sassy and overall a strong main character.
I enjoyed this book very much. I have no complaints about it, it was short and sweet and I'm excited to read the next one when it comes out.
4.5 stars
I'm a simple gal. I see a fairytale retelling on Goodreads and I add it to my tbr. Easy. I've loved the Nutcracker since I was a kid- especially the Barbie adaptation. I saw this on NetGalley and requested it *immediately*.
This was such a fun book to read. It has rivals to lovers, a super dreamy fairytale setting, and of course it's set in a time where a woman adventuring alone with a man who isn't family is scandalous.
The story takes place a decade or so after the original story of the Nutcracker takes place, and ever since then Marie has been dreaming of the day that her Nutcracker Prince will return for her to take her back to the Kingdom of Dolls. Of course, no one in her family believes her when she speaks of her prince and the kingdom. When her niece Clara goes missing Marie knows that the Nutcracker has taken her to the Kingdom of Dolls, and she knows that she has to bring her back.
I loooooved the characters. Especially Lang. Except for when his mustache was mentioned. I kept imagining him without one and when I was reminded that he has a mustache my imagination wasn't as fun.
Marie was a fun protagonist. I love that she was a little sassy and overall a strong main character.
I enjoyed this book very much. I have no complaints about it, it was short and sweet and I'm excited to read the next one when it comes out.
4.5 stars
December 24, 2021
"Sugar and Snow" is an extension of the story of the Nutcracker, this time following an adult female lead. Marie, star of the original Nutcracker fantasy, is at a Christmas party with her brother, now a soldier, and his friends, as well as her extended family. That family includes her niece, Clara. Marie is alarmed by one of Fritz's soldier friends--he seems so reminiscent of someone she knew from her Nutcracker experience. Suddenly Clara's in peril, and it's time to fire up the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy again.
What's good: If you enjoyed the original story of the Nutcracker, if you just enjoyed the ballet, the author's ability to weave together her sequel with the original material is charming. It does feel as if you're re-entering a world of candy delights and mystery. Some of the author's choices are especially intriguing--I can't be more specific without falling into spoilers.
What's iffier: The story starts off with adult Marie and her references to her Nutcracker past include some original material. It feels a bit as if you jumped into the second book of a story. (I even double-checked this, as the book is part of a planned trilogy--but no, it's the first book.)
Overall, I admired the author's imagination and ambition to take on the Nutcracker story and rebuild it anew while still retaining its magical heart.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this as an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
What's good: If you enjoyed the original story of the Nutcracker, if you just enjoyed the ballet, the author's ability to weave together her sequel with the original material is charming. It does feel as if you're re-entering a world of candy delights and mystery. Some of the author's choices are especially intriguing--I can't be more specific without falling into spoilers.
What's iffier: The story starts off with adult Marie and her references to her Nutcracker past include some original material. It feels a bit as if you jumped into the second book of a story. (I even double-checked this, as the book is part of a planned trilogy--but no, it's the first book.)
Overall, I admired the author's imagination and ambition to take on the Nutcracker story and rebuild it anew while still retaining its magical heart.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this as an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
December 27, 2021
If you love stories with magic in them, or are a fan of The Nutcracker, this story is for you!! Sugar And Snow takes place about 10 years after Marie takes her first trip to the Kingdom of Dolls. She has been waiting for her Nutcracker to return, but when he does, as a human, he's not what she remembers. And maybe there is more to the story between him and the Mouse King, as he has also returned.
I enjoyed reading this book and it made for an easy Christmas read. Marie, now almost grown, still believes in everything that happened to her that night when she was 8, even though nobody else does. As Marie takes on a new adventure with the Mouse King, will she find what she is in search for?
This is the first book in a 3 part series. I can't wait for the next 2 to come (the 2nd one is set to be released June 2022), but this book could have worked as a stand alone book.
I rate this book as 4.5🌟!
I'd like to say a huge thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
#reading2021 #winterreading2021 #booklover #booksofinstagram #netgalley #Christmasreads #TheNutcracker #fantasybooks #SugarandSnow
I enjoyed reading this book and it made for an easy Christmas read. Marie, now almost grown, still believes in everything that happened to her that night when she was 8, even though nobody else does. As Marie takes on a new adventure with the Mouse King, will she find what she is in search for?
This is the first book in a 3 part series. I can't wait for the next 2 to come (the 2nd one is set to be released June 2022), but this book could have worked as a stand alone book.
I rate this book as 4.5🌟!
I'd like to say a huge thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
#reading2021 #winterreading2021 #booklover #booksofinstagram #netgalley #Christmasreads #TheNutcracker #fantasybooks #SugarandSnow
October 1, 2025
The Nutcracker is back—but so is the Mouse King, and Marie must decide where her loyalties truly lie. No one believes her magical adventure with the Nutcracker Prince ever happened, and even Marie herself has begun to doubt it. But when her brother Fritz’s cavalry friends arrive for Christmas, one of them demands she return the Mouse King’s seven crowns. Suddenly, the Nutcracker reappears, the battle begins anew—and this time, the lines between hero and villain aren’t so clear.
The premise is exciting, with echoes of Labyrinth and The Princess Bride that promise fencing, fighting, revenge, chases, escapes, true love, miracles, and of course, some “kissy bits.” The Mouse King’s redemption arc is intriguing, and the twist on the holiday classic has plenty of potential.
However, while I enjoyed the creativity and the darker spin on the fairy tale, the execution didn’t fully land for me. The pacing felt uneven, the characters sometimes inconsistent, and the central romance didn’t quite deliver the emotional punch I was hoping for. Still, if you love villain redemptions, fairy tale retellings, and a more morally gray take on the Nutcracker legend, this book might be worth the read.
The premise is exciting, with echoes of Labyrinth and The Princess Bride that promise fencing, fighting, revenge, chases, escapes, true love, miracles, and of course, some “kissy bits.” The Mouse King’s redemption arc is intriguing, and the twist on the holiday classic has plenty of potential.
However, while I enjoyed the creativity and the darker spin on the fairy tale, the execution didn’t fully land for me. The pacing felt uneven, the characters sometimes inconsistent, and the central romance didn’t quite deliver the emotional punch I was hoping for. Still, if you love villain redemptions, fairy tale retellings, and a more morally gray take on the Nutcracker legend, this book might be worth the read.
December 19, 2021
ARC received by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was the perfect book to curl up with on a cold night. I really enjoyed getting to look at the story of the Nutcracker from the perspective of an older character. One who has gone to the Land of Dolls, returned, and wishes to go back someday. Both the main characters had a good amount of depth to them as well. There are only two things I wish more from this book. One, would be the length. I felt like it would have been a much stronger book if it was just a tiniest bit longer. Second, I wish the nutcracker had a larger role to play. His story was a little murky towards the end. Though, this all might be added to with the next book in the series. A book I am certainly going to pick up because of just how much I enjoyed this one.
This was the perfect book to curl up with on a cold night. I really enjoyed getting to look at the story of the Nutcracker from the perspective of an older character. One who has gone to the Land of Dolls, returned, and wishes to go back someday. Both the main characters had a good amount of depth to them as well. There are only two things I wish more from this book. One, would be the length. I felt like it would have been a much stronger book if it was just a tiniest bit longer. Second, I wish the nutcracker had a larger role to play. His story was a little murky towards the end. Though, this all might be added to with the next book in the series. A book I am certainly going to pick up because of just how much I enjoyed this one.
December 17, 2024
This is coming from a person who never seen the nutcracker but know the main plot points. I might have understood the story more if I actually saw it.
It was a cute read for during the holidays but that's all it really was. There was a lot of yelling and then some showing. The romance between the mouse King and Maria felt all over the place. One minute they like each other then the next hated eachother. But not like an enemies to lovers way. More like
Characters weren't fleshed out enough. I think she had a good base on the characters but I only knew really what they said and not too much on the actions they did. I think with it trying to be a novella is where it went wrong. Trying to cram too much plot into a short story. One thing I did enjoy is that it felt like the author did her research and did it well!
It was a cute read for during the holidays but that's all it really was. There was a lot of yelling and then some showing. The romance between the mouse King and Maria felt all over the place. One minute they like each other then the next hated eachother. But not like an enemies to lovers way. More like
Characters weren't fleshed out enough. I think she had a good base on the characters but I only knew really what they said and not too much on the actions they did. I think with it trying to be a novella is where it went wrong. Trying to cram too much plot into a short story. One thing I did enjoy is that it felt like the author did her research and did it well!
December 27, 2023
4.5 rounded up
Such a wonderful retelling of a classic Christmas tale. There's a beautiful gentleness that grown-up Marie extends to all involved as she connects current events to the ones from her childhood.
The takeaway are two important lessons that can be incredibly difficult to truly learn and absorb: first, a child shouldn't be blamed for the actions of an adult. And second, it's okay for your opinion about something or someone to change once you have all the information.
Not straight up 5 stars because, though I appreciate her mature and gentle understanding, if ever there was a time to be outraged and a little loud, the kidnapping of your 5 year old niece would be at the top of that list.
Such a wonderful retelling of a classic Christmas tale. There's a beautiful gentleness that grown-up Marie extends to all involved as she connects current events to the ones from her childhood.
The takeaway are two important lessons that can be incredibly difficult to truly learn and absorb: first, a child shouldn't be blamed for the actions of an adult. And second, it's okay for your opinion about something or someone to change once you have all the information.
Not straight up 5 stars because, though I appreciate her mature and gentle understanding, if ever there was a time to be outraged and a little loud, the kidnapping of your 5 year old niece would be at the top of that list.
January 11, 2025
This was an intriguing concept that just fell a little flat to me. I felt like I was reading for characters that, instead of being a 3D, well rounded person, were little cardboard cutouts. The scenery was beautiful, but I couldn't understand some of the choices made by the main character since she seemed to just make them on a whim. One minute, she's eagerly awaiting the Nutcracker's return... and then just moments later, she's decided that maybe that's not what she wants. She's had years to decide this, and it only just now, at 18 years old, occurs to her? She wasn't the only one guilty of this either. I also knew nothing of her overall personality. I know that she plays with her necklace when she's nervous. That's it. I don't believe I'll be continuing this series.
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