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The Djinn Wars #12.75 (Unseen)
Once Upon a Wish
Dreaming of a magical world? Your wish is our command! These sixteen fairytale retellings from bestselling authors will sweep you away into enchanted lands where wishes have the power to change lives. With wistful twists on Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and more, you'll be enthralled by these all-new tales. Just be careful what you wish for...
Dreaming of a magical world? Your wish is our command! These sixteen fairytale retellings from bestselling authors will sweep you away into enchanted lands where wishes have the power to change lives. With wistful twists on Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and more, you’ll be enthralled by these all-new tales. Just be careful what you wish for…
INCLUDES:
The Dust Wish – Alethea Kontis
A prince attempting to win the hand of a princess is helped by an enthusiastic boy, a snarky maid, and a wish-granting dust bunny.
Ashes to Ashes – Phaedra Weldon
Bounty Hunter Cynder’s latest job is to hunt down a Djinn who refuses to fulfill his third wish. Not quite believing in such things as Wish Givers (especially Fairy Godmothers), Cynder’s world capsizes when she discovers what that third wish is all about.
Wallina – Nikki Jefford
A beautiful orphan is adopted then imprisoned by marriage-minded trolls, sorcerers, and faeries in this magical adventure.
Wicked Winds – Kasey Mackenzie
Dorrie Gale’s been a ball of anxiety since her mother was ripped away from her arms by a Kansas twister, never to be seen again. When wicked winds return over a decade later only to sweep her away, Dorrie’s forced to believe that her mother’s storybook tales are actually true.
The Fairest Shop of Them All – Shawntelle Madison
A tyrannical duchess makes a dark wish, for her to have the fairest hat shop of them all, but an orphan shopkeeper with mystical goods stands in her way.
Immortal Wish – Colleen Gleason
Lyla Harris lives at the bottom of the Sea in the city of Atlantis…but she knows there’s something else up there. When she makes a wish to learn more, a whole new world opens up for her.
Unseen – Christine Pope
After the end of the world, an invisible benefactor comes to Janna Sayers’ aid. But will her curiosity about her mysterious guardian be her undoing?
First Snow – Alexia Purdy
In the dead of winter, Jonna is saved from the cold by an unlikely ally. She’s determined to rescue her family from the clutches of an ancient witch who rules the desolate frost lands and turns trespassers into statues of ice.
The Dreamer’s Curse – Rachel Morgan
When a wish bargain with the Godmother goes wrong, Cress winds up cursed to an eternal slumber. But a potion that gives her the ability to travel through dreams may be the key to her escape.
The Lady of the Lake – Julia Crane
What would an otherworldly creature want more than anything? To be mortal, of course. The Lady of the Lake might have bitten off more than she could chew.
The Wishing Thorn – Jamie Ferguson
Leah never believed in her Irish grandmother’s stories about trees granting wishes, but after having her life turned upside-down, she decided to see if the stories were real after all. She chose to make her wish of a blackthorn: the tree of warfare and ill omens, and the keeper of dark secrets…
Woven from Pure Starlight – Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
Caitlin’s glamour-infused hair has kept her from living a life of her own since the death of her mother. When a stranger arrives in the magical forest near her home, Caitlin gets a chance at friendship, love, and the most important thing of all: freedom.
Last Wish – C. Gockel
Once upon a time there was no death. Spirits walked among humans, and giant game sustained them. But as the world changed, something worse than death came to the world.
Heart of the Forest – Anthea Sharp
Pursuing an enchanted creature into a magical forest, a prince discovers that his heart’s desire isn’t what he thought…
Pin Oak’s Wish – Kay McSpadden
Pin Oaks knows her Grandmother Blue can grant wishes, but she’s never needed one until now. It’s 1952, and the young mountain healer wants her grandmother to help her become a real city woman—and to find her true love before he ships out for Korea.
Wish Upon a Straw – Devon Monk
One magical gold spinner, one kingdom full of dragons…
Dreaming of a magical world? Your wish is our command! These sixteen fairytale retellings from bestselling authors will sweep you away into enchanted lands where wishes have the power to change lives. With wistful twists on Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, and more, you’ll be enthralled by these all-new tales. Just be careful what you wish for…
INCLUDES:
The Dust Wish – Alethea Kontis
A prince attempting to win the hand of a princess is helped by an enthusiastic boy, a snarky maid, and a wish-granting dust bunny.
Ashes to Ashes – Phaedra Weldon
Bounty Hunter Cynder’s latest job is to hunt down a Djinn who refuses to fulfill his third wish. Not quite believing in such things as Wish Givers (especially Fairy Godmothers), Cynder’s world capsizes when she discovers what that third wish is all about.
Wallina – Nikki Jefford
A beautiful orphan is adopted then imprisoned by marriage-minded trolls, sorcerers, and faeries in this magical adventure.
Wicked Winds – Kasey Mackenzie
Dorrie Gale’s been a ball of anxiety since her mother was ripped away from her arms by a Kansas twister, never to be seen again. When wicked winds return over a decade later only to sweep her away, Dorrie’s forced to believe that her mother’s storybook tales are actually true.
The Fairest Shop of Them All – Shawntelle Madison
A tyrannical duchess makes a dark wish, for her to have the fairest hat shop of them all, but an orphan shopkeeper with mystical goods stands in her way.
Immortal Wish – Colleen Gleason
Lyla Harris lives at the bottom of the Sea in the city of Atlantis…but she knows there’s something else up there. When she makes a wish to learn more, a whole new world opens up for her.
Unseen – Christine Pope
After the end of the world, an invisible benefactor comes to Janna Sayers’ aid. But will her curiosity about her mysterious guardian be her undoing?
First Snow – Alexia Purdy
In the dead of winter, Jonna is saved from the cold by an unlikely ally. She’s determined to rescue her family from the clutches of an ancient witch who rules the desolate frost lands and turns trespassers into statues of ice.
The Dreamer’s Curse – Rachel Morgan
When a wish bargain with the Godmother goes wrong, Cress winds up cursed to an eternal slumber. But a potion that gives her the ability to travel through dreams may be the key to her escape.
The Lady of the Lake – Julia Crane
What would an otherworldly creature want more than anything? To be mortal, of course. The Lady of the Lake might have bitten off more than she could chew.
The Wishing Thorn – Jamie Ferguson
Leah never believed in her Irish grandmother’s stories about trees granting wishes, but after having her life turned upside-down, she decided to see if the stories were real after all. She chose to make her wish of a blackthorn: the tree of warfare and ill omens, and the keeper of dark secrets…
Woven from Pure Starlight – Jenna Elizabeth Johnson
Caitlin’s glamour-infused hair has kept her from living a life of her own since the death of her mother. When a stranger arrives in the magical forest near her home, Caitlin gets a chance at friendship, love, and the most important thing of all: freedom.
Last Wish – C. Gockel
Once upon a time there was no death. Spirits walked among humans, and giant game sustained them. But as the world changed, something worse than death came to the world.
Heart of the Forest – Anthea Sharp
Pursuing an enchanted creature into a magical forest, a prince discovers that his heart’s desire isn’t what he thought…
Pin Oak’s Wish – Kay McSpadden
Pin Oaks knows her Grandmother Blue can grant wishes, but she’s never needed one until now. It’s 1952, and the young mountain healer wants her grandmother to help her become a real city woman—and to find her true love before he ships out for Korea.
Wish Upon a Straw – Devon Monk
One magical gold spinner, one kingdom full of dragons…
476 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2021
54 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
About the author
Devon Monk
89 books2,065 followersDevon Monk is a national best selling writer of urban fantasy. Her series include Ordinary Magic, House Immortal, Allie Beckstrom, Broken Magic and Shame and Terric. She also writes the Age of Steam steampunk series, and the occasional short story which can be found in her collection: A Cup of Normal, and in various anthologies. She has one husband, two sons, and lives in Oregon. When not writing, Devon is either drinking too much coffee or knitting silly things.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 14, 2021
Be swept away into enchanting lands as you fall in love with reimagined fairytales! These creative tales have some very unique twists.
WALLINA - NIKKI JEFFORD
Such a sweet tale with twisty turns and unexpected surprises. I loved this reimagined fairytale and was enchanted! The happily ever after was superb. Nikki Jefford is always ah-mazing and quite talented.
LAST WISH - C. GOCKEL
So sad indeed but absolutely beautiful in a way as well. I was throughly engrossed and entertained. This was a bittersweet tale that gives you a little frown at its conclusion. C. Gockel has such a magical way with words!
WALLINA - NIKKI JEFFORD
Such a sweet tale with twisty turns and unexpected surprises. I loved this reimagined fairytale and was enchanted! The happily ever after was superb. Nikki Jefford is always ah-mazing and quite talented.
LAST WISH - C. GOCKEL
So sad indeed but absolutely beautiful in a way as well. I was throughly engrossed and entertained. This was a bittersweet tale that gives you a little frown at its conclusion. C. Gockel has such a magical way with words!
February 14, 2021
Fantastic trip into another world,a collection of creative fairytale that keep you captivated through each storyline.I very much enjoyed the diversity of each story and the basis in traditional tales with interesting twists and turns.
February 14, 2021
I've only read Last Wish by C. Gockel so far, but as with her other stories, it did not disappoint. And while I had been prepared for it to be sad at the end, I was not prepared to burst into tears...lol. C Gockel has a way of bringing the characters to life and making them seem real...even though you know you're reading sci-fi. Knowing who some of the other authors are in this collection, the price will be worth every penny. Looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in this collection.
February 28, 2021
eARC received by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson in exchange for an honest review.
"A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes."
I have had so much fun reading this book! Unfortunately, I am only a little half way through and have not finished all the stories as of yet but those that I have read, for the most part, have been thoroughly entertaining. I have been really into anthologies lately and when I seen an opportunity to get a jump start on this next installment of the "Once Upon" series, I had to take it!
I have enjoyed the first nine stories that I was able to finish. I love the many different writing styles of each author and seeing their take on many classic fairytales. There were some stories that I was able to discern which re-telling it was right away and others that took me a second to figure out and even others still that I have never heard of but enjoyed the story nonetheless.
Once Upon A Wish has been a great read so far and I have been enjoying myself. If you're looking for a book about fairytale re-tellings and dont want to settle on just one single re-telling, definitely check out Once Upon A Wish. You will be transported to 16 different magical lands all about stories you may or may not have heard of and all of which will be entertaining!
Happy Reading!
"A Dream is a Wish your Heart Makes."
I have had so much fun reading this book! Unfortunately, I am only a little half way through and have not finished all the stories as of yet but those that I have read, for the most part, have been thoroughly entertaining. I have been really into anthologies lately and when I seen an opportunity to get a jump start on this next installment of the "Once Upon" series, I had to take it!
I have enjoyed the first nine stories that I was able to finish. I love the many different writing styles of each author and seeing their take on many classic fairytales. There were some stories that I was able to discern which re-telling it was right away and others that took me a second to figure out and even others still that I have never heard of but enjoyed the story nonetheless.
Once Upon A Wish has been a great read so far and I have been enjoying myself. If you're looking for a book about fairytale re-tellings and dont want to settle on just one single re-telling, definitely check out Once Upon A Wish. You will be transported to 16 different magical lands all about stories you may or may not have heard of and all of which will be entertaining!
Happy Reading!
February 21, 2021
edit: I decided only to mention the stories I really enjoyed even though the ideas behind them were all amazing and I liked to see the many twists and originality. Which is why I changed my normal 4 stars to 5.
Well worth the money spent!
Alethea Kontis once again wrote a beautiful story that warmed my heart and made me smile - and sometimes laugh out loud. Especially the parts she put in brackets, too too good! I enjoyed the plot and her characters, especially Rabbit, and I'd love to read more of this world.
Rachel Morgan's story really drew me in and captured me. I liked the idea, the characters and the plot, I fell into it while reading and will definitely read more from her.
I very much liked Julia Crane's take on the lady of the lake.
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson's story confused me in the beginning (I think the curse is explained wrong) but then it totally gripped me and I enjoyed it to the end.
Last wish by C. Gockel was a very interesting take on a native legend and I liked it even though it ripped my heart right out. No. That's wrong. I liked it just because it ripped my heart right out.
Anthea Sharp's Heart of the Forest drew me all in and I enjoyed it so very much.
And the last story, oooh, that one was right up my alley. Devon Monk will definitely be stalked by me now, her story has this special tongue in cheek humor I love and there. Are. Dragons! Utterly enchanting and entertaining.
I hope there will be many more Once upon anthologies, those story collections are my favorite books every year!
Well worth the money spent!
Alethea Kontis once again wrote a beautiful story that warmed my heart and made me smile - and sometimes laugh out loud. Especially the parts she put in brackets, too too good! I enjoyed the plot and her characters, especially Rabbit, and I'd love to read more of this world.
Rachel Morgan's story really drew me in and captured me. I liked the idea, the characters and the plot, I fell into it while reading and will definitely read more from her.
I very much liked Julia Crane's take on the lady of the lake.
Jenna Elizabeth Johnson's story confused me in the beginning (I think the curse is explained wrong) but then it totally gripped me and I enjoyed it to the end.
Last wish by C. Gockel was a very interesting take on a native legend and I liked it even though it ripped my heart right out. No. That's wrong. I liked it just because it ripped my heart right out.
Anthea Sharp's Heart of the Forest drew me all in and I enjoyed it so very much.
And the last story, oooh, that one was right up my alley. Devon Monk will definitely be stalked by me now, her story has this special tongue in cheek humor I love and there. Are. Dragons! Utterly enchanting and entertaining.
I hope there will be many more Once upon anthologies, those story collections are my favorite books every year!
February 16, 2021
I love retelling stories of fairytales, so this anthology has been a fun and enjoyable read. I wish to review the three stories I have had the chance to read so far. And I can’t wait to read more.
The first story, “The Dust Wish” by Alethea Kontis has me looking at dust bunnies in a whole new light. This was such a unique and fun story to read. I really like the relationship that was built between the prince, the boy, and the maid. And the dust bunnies were so interesting. I was very drawn in and it would be fun to read more about these characters.
The next story, “Ashes to Ashes” was a great mix of Djinn and Cinderella fairytales. Phaedra Weldon combined these two themes together very well. It was a joy to read and see where this story would go.
The next story, “Wallina” by Nikki Jefford was so interesting. I wasn’t as familiar with the fairytale that inspired this story and now, I want to read more about it. It was refreshing in a way of not thinking of how the story would be different from the original story. The main character has many adventures in this story and it had me almost biting my fingers on what the out come would be. Very entertaining and well written.
I’m looking forward to the rest of the stories in this anthology.
The first story, “The Dust Wish” by Alethea Kontis has me looking at dust bunnies in a whole new light. This was such a unique and fun story to read. I really like the relationship that was built between the prince, the boy, and the maid. And the dust bunnies were so interesting. I was very drawn in and it would be fun to read more about these characters.
The next story, “Ashes to Ashes” was a great mix of Djinn and Cinderella fairytales. Phaedra Weldon combined these two themes together very well. It was a joy to read and see where this story would go.
The next story, “Wallina” by Nikki Jefford was so interesting. I wasn’t as familiar with the fairytale that inspired this story and now, I want to read more about it. It was refreshing in a way of not thinking of how the story would be different from the original story. The main character has many adventures in this story and it had me almost biting my fingers on what the out come would be. Very entertaining and well written.
I’m looking forward to the rest of the stories in this anthology.
February 15, 2021
I’ve really enjoyed the prior “Once Upon” collections and was delighted to come across the 6th such release. This one, entitled Once Upon A Wish (Once Upon Series, Book 6) is correctly labeled as “16 Dreamy Faerie Tales”. Dreamy and wonderfully written, over half are by authors who are in my group of favorite fantasy writers. While I do have a favorite here (it’s Heart of the Forest by Anthea Sharp), you cannot really go wrong with this collection and several of them are so good that I’ve already re-read them. From me that’s high praise, and I’m happy to highly recommend this collection.
February 17, 2021
Overall, I really enjoyed this collection of Faerie Tales! As always in these collections, there were authors whose styles of writing I really enjoyed reading, and there were others that didn't resonate as well with me. There were a few stories based off of legends that I was unfamiliar with, like "Last Wish" by C. Gockel about the Coyote spirit of North American legends. My favorites were "The Dreamer's Curse" by Rachel Morgan, "Woven From Pure Starlight" by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, and "Wish Upon a Straw" by Devon Monk. They all told familiar tales with really interesting twists and were really well-written.
I received a free e-copy of this book and agreed to review it.
I received a free e-copy of this book and agreed to review it.
February 15, 2021
Every story sends you on a new adventure! There's a great job of setting the scene and plot throughout each story perfectly. I got lost in each story and they left me wanting more! If you want to go through all of your emotions, this collection is definitely for you!
February 22, 2021
This is such a fabulous set of stories. I loved how each story was written, it makes for a magical listening experience. Each story is easy to follow, beautifully written, and make housework so much more enjoyable! I love each and everyone, thank you for a fabulous afternoon getaway!
February 22, 2021
Wishful ⭐️ thinking!! Here is preview on some of the stories
⭐️The Dust Wish - Alethea Kontis
One of my favorites! Wishes come true but in the most unexpected way. So much humor and heart 💜 ! I adored the cute friendships and magic ! It was intriguing from start to finish!
⭐️Wallina -Nikki Jefford-
Sweet Thumbelina remake! Friends, kidnapping, trolls and even a handsome prince! Loved it! Glad my girl made it home! Thank the stars!
⭐️The Dreamer’s Curse - Rachel Morgan
This was better then sleeping beauty TRUST ME!!! another favorite of mine! It had that strangers to friends to lovers trope i love so much!!! There was even some adorable kisses!! I went ahead and stalk this author now because she was new to me! 😅
⭐️Ashes to Ashes - Phaedra Weldon
Cinder and Charming! What a cool cinderella remake!!! LOVED IT HARD! Totally different, fun, heartbreaking and swoony!!! Another favorite!💋
⭐️Unseen - Christine Pope
This author has a full series “A Djinn Wars” which Unsee takes place in. I do love this world alot!!! Its set in a post-apocalypse world, humans are almost extinct and at the mercy of supernatural aliens beings. The first book is currently free ( Chosen the Djinn wars) definitelyworth getting !!! Its a little sad but also sweet and swoony!
⭐️Lady of the Lake - Julia Crane
It was an interesting Merlin and Lady of the lake story! i was intrigued with it and exited where it was going but then it ended and i felt it wasn’t resolved. It felt like a cliffhanger but im not sure if it was. 😭 Im curious to see if she does a follow up.
⭐️First Snow - Alexia Purdy
Oh my! Very Unique! Family is everything! Loved this one. It was intriguing from start to finish and i loved the ending!! I have siblings of my own and this just warm my heart ♥️
⭐️ Last Wish - C. Gockel
Wow! this tale was new to me! I found it very old-poetic-rhyme story like! I cant explain it but its sooo good! Its kinda of like a legend or myth coming to life. I love the main character telling the story and that end?! wowzers !! 💔 loved it!
⭐️The Dust Wish - Alethea Kontis
One of my favorites! Wishes come true but in the most unexpected way. So much humor and heart 💜 ! I adored the cute friendships and magic ! It was intriguing from start to finish!
⭐️Wallina -Nikki Jefford-
Sweet Thumbelina remake! Friends, kidnapping, trolls and even a handsome prince! Loved it! Glad my girl made it home! Thank the stars!
⭐️The Dreamer’s Curse - Rachel Morgan
This was better then sleeping beauty TRUST ME!!! another favorite of mine! It had that strangers to friends to lovers trope i love so much!!! There was even some adorable kisses!! I went ahead and stalk this author now because she was new to me! 😅
⭐️Ashes to Ashes - Phaedra Weldon
Cinder and Charming! What a cool cinderella remake!!! LOVED IT HARD! Totally different, fun, heartbreaking and swoony!!! Another favorite!💋
⭐️Unseen - Christine Pope
This author has a full series “A Djinn Wars” which Unsee takes place in. I do love this world alot!!! Its set in a post-apocalypse world, humans are almost extinct and at the mercy of supernatural aliens beings. The first book is currently free ( Chosen the Djinn wars) definitelyworth getting !!! Its a little sad but also sweet and swoony!
⭐️Lady of the Lake - Julia Crane
It was an interesting Merlin and Lady of the lake story! i was intrigued with it and exited where it was going but then it ended and i felt it wasn’t resolved. It felt like a cliffhanger but im not sure if it was. 😭 Im curious to see if she does a follow up.
⭐️First Snow - Alexia Purdy
Oh my! Very Unique! Family is everything! Loved this one. It was intriguing from start to finish and i loved the ending!! I have siblings of my own and this just warm my heart ♥️
⭐️ Last Wish - C. Gockel
Wow! this tale was new to me! I found it very old-poetic-rhyme story like! I cant explain it but its sooo good! Its kinda of like a legend or myth coming to life. I love the main character telling the story and that end?! wowzers !! 💔 loved it!
September 1, 2022
Amazing set of retold fairytales, lots of them humorous and sweet, loved it!
Another fab fairytale anthology of 16 newly retold tales - quite a few stories were humorous, which was a nice surprise. There were some oldies but indie goodies and I found some new indie fave authors. Nb! It’s the last month this anthology is available before taken down in Oct, so, you know, last chance.
My top 10 fave stories in gooey gushing dreamy fairytale order (humorous ones first):
5/5 The Dust Wish by Alethea Kontis - I’ll never look at a dust bunny the same again. Loved this sweet retelling of a Slavic fairytale of the Princess who never smiled mixed with fairy lore. The style reminded me of Terry Pratchett books & made me chuckle throughout. “Each son was righteous, handsome, and named after some implement that drew blood.” Lol.
5/5 Ashes to Ashes by Phaedra Weldon - a runaway Djinn who broke his contract and Ella the bounty hunter goes after him, but not before she acquires a single shoe in an antique store. Another fun story that made me grin all the way through and such an awesome twist on the Cinderella angle, loved it! I loved Rex Charming, gimme more! As for Ella, come on, who says to their fairy godmother: “Identify yourself and tell me how you got into my room and I promise I’ll shoot you in a place that’ll be painful, but won’t kill you, though it will make it possible for the police to cart you off.”
5/5 Wish Upon a Straw by Devon Monk - hilarious Rumple retelling with dragons. Ever wondered why the king was gagging for gold? Coz none was left in the kingdom, yes, but dig deeper. I liked the hidden egg of a nod to Sting’s song (nothing but Fields of… straw, get it?). Loved that you can tell dragons by the smell of smoke and fairy by lemon-clover. Loved Rumple’s backstory. Loved the humour, loved, loved, loved, would read again and anything by this author. It was fab that the anthology ended with this story, such a nice last touch!
5/5 Wallina by Nikki Jefford - oh, this was such a fun and sweet retelling of Thumbelina - I’d read it again and to kids. You have to read it yourself to see how the author substituted the toads and other beings in the original fairytale - priceless! Will definitely have a looksee at this author’s other books.
5/5 Woven From Pure Starlight by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson - I loved this fae-tinged Rapunzel retelling!!! Cruel Sorcha, one of Morrighan’s generals shears Caitlin’s hair biannually at solctices until Caitlin finds a stag in the woods. Had me at the edge of the seat, this one and I’m not even going to tell you whether there was a HEA or not.
5/5 The Fairest Shop of Them All by Shawntelle Madison - hat take on Snow with Whitley Snowfall and Carl Princeton meeting over hats. I loved the idea that all the villains - who need superb hats to be cruel in - have a milliner who supplies them their fabulous head ornaments. Loved it!
5/5 Heart of the Forest by Anthea Sharp - begins with a hunt - against his family’s wishes, heartbroken Prince Kentry decides to ride into Darkwood in search of the fabled beast of White Hart. I loved Kent’s & Fanya’s cute meet story set in the fae realm & how the author conjured new titles for fae courts.
5/5 The Dreamer’s Curse by Rachel Morgan - take on Sleeping Beauty - Cress learns the day before her 16th birthday she is destined to die tomorrow because a wish granted by the infamous Godmother requires a steep price - a life for a life. Loved the potion solution and the fact the Godmother was like a mafia queen.
5/5 Wicked Winds by Kasey MacKenzie - retelling of Wizard of Oz - I loved that Dorrie is listening to Toto’s album when driving. Midway through I got a bit of The Little Prince feel and I’m not entirely sure these tales don’t have similar undertones - maybe Dorrie did go to Oz and maybe she didn’t. Homage to the wording of Harry Potter’s curse was nice and I loved the brilliant twist…oh, read the ending yourself!
4/5 Pin Oak’s Wish by Kay McSpadden - such a sweet story of a mountain healer woman who goes to the city in 1950s. Careful what you wish for. If the author hadn’t explained that thus was a Pinocchio retelling, I’d never would gave guessed it.
4/5 Immortal Wish by Colleen Gleason - retelling of Little Mermaid where Lyla is an Atlantean. Imagine how it would feel, going up top for the very first time. An interesting prequel to how DEA agent Lyla Harris came about.
4/5 Unseen by Christine Pope - Janna is one of the few (0.5%) survivors immune to the Heat, the deadly fever to which turns most of population to ash and leaves Earth to be ruled by the djinn. Another story of the One Thousand djinns & Djinn Wars series - besides the one I’ve previously encountered in Once Upon A Ghost.
4/5 First Snow by Alexia Purdy - Snow Queen meets 12 Swans / 7 Ravens - a girl goes in search of her 7 brothers lost during camping and ends up in the Winter Realm. Did you know that the first winter snow in those woods robs you of your memory in exchange for life? Jonna’s stay with the fae king reminded me of Greta losing herself in the summer garden en route to find Kaj. A bit melancholy, but with a HEA.
4/5 Lady of the Lake by Julia Crane - arthurian tale where Lady of the Lake wants to be mortal for a day. I half-expected the Lady to turn into Morgana, but perhaps in a sequel…? A cool ditty, mostly about ancient beings coming of age.
4/5 The Wishing Thorn by Jamie Ferguson - argh, this will haunt me like a bitten sandwich now. I loved the heartbreaking story of Leah & her wish made in anger, but hated that it ended with a cliffhanger.
Last Wish by C.Gockel - a Native-American fairytale of the wife of Coyote, something worse than death - wasn’t quite my cuppa. It’s a fairytale that breaks away from the general tone of the anthology, but accounts for a bipoc element in the set.
Recommended for lovers of NA or actually timeless retold fairytales, especially humorous ones.
Another fab fairytale anthology of 16 newly retold tales - quite a few stories were humorous, which was a nice surprise. There were some oldies but indie goodies and I found some new indie fave authors. Nb! It’s the last month this anthology is available before taken down in Oct, so, you know, last chance.
My top 10 fave stories in gooey gushing dreamy fairytale order (humorous ones first):
5/5 The Dust Wish by Alethea Kontis - I’ll never look at a dust bunny the same again. Loved this sweet retelling of a Slavic fairytale of the Princess who never smiled mixed with fairy lore. The style reminded me of Terry Pratchett books & made me chuckle throughout. “Each son was righteous, handsome, and named after some implement that drew blood.” Lol.
5/5 Ashes to Ashes by Phaedra Weldon - a runaway Djinn who broke his contract and Ella the bounty hunter goes after him, but not before she acquires a single shoe in an antique store. Another fun story that made me grin all the way through and such an awesome twist on the Cinderella angle, loved it! I loved Rex Charming, gimme more! As for Ella, come on, who says to their fairy godmother: “Identify yourself and tell me how you got into my room and I promise I’ll shoot you in a place that’ll be painful, but won’t kill you, though it will make it possible for the police to cart you off.”
5/5 Wish Upon a Straw by Devon Monk - hilarious Rumple retelling with dragons. Ever wondered why the king was gagging for gold? Coz none was left in the kingdom, yes, but dig deeper. I liked the hidden egg of a nod to Sting’s song (nothing but Fields of… straw, get it?). Loved that you can tell dragons by the smell of smoke and fairy by lemon-clover. Loved Rumple’s backstory. Loved the humour, loved, loved, loved, would read again and anything by this author. It was fab that the anthology ended with this story, such a nice last touch!
5/5 Wallina by Nikki Jefford - oh, this was such a fun and sweet retelling of Thumbelina - I’d read it again and to kids. You have to read it yourself to see how the author substituted the toads and other beings in the original fairytale - priceless! Will definitely have a looksee at this author’s other books.
5/5 Woven From Pure Starlight by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson - I loved this fae-tinged Rapunzel retelling!!! Cruel Sorcha, one of Morrighan’s generals shears Caitlin’s hair biannually at solctices until Caitlin finds a stag in the woods. Had me at the edge of the seat, this one and I’m not even going to tell you whether there was a HEA or not.
5/5 The Fairest Shop of Them All by Shawntelle Madison - hat take on Snow with Whitley Snowfall and Carl Princeton meeting over hats. I loved the idea that all the villains - who need superb hats to be cruel in - have a milliner who supplies them their fabulous head ornaments. Loved it!
5/5 Heart of the Forest by Anthea Sharp - begins with a hunt - against his family’s wishes, heartbroken Prince Kentry decides to ride into Darkwood in search of the fabled beast of White Hart. I loved Kent’s & Fanya’s cute meet story set in the fae realm & how the author conjured new titles for fae courts.
5/5 The Dreamer’s Curse by Rachel Morgan - take on Sleeping Beauty - Cress learns the day before her 16th birthday she is destined to die tomorrow because a wish granted by the infamous Godmother requires a steep price - a life for a life. Loved the potion solution and the fact the Godmother was like a mafia queen.
5/5 Wicked Winds by Kasey MacKenzie - retelling of Wizard of Oz - I loved that Dorrie is listening to Toto’s album when driving. Midway through I got a bit of The Little Prince feel and I’m not entirely sure these tales don’t have similar undertones - maybe Dorrie did go to Oz and maybe she didn’t. Homage to the wording of Harry Potter’s curse was nice and I loved the brilliant twist…oh, read the ending yourself!
4/5 Pin Oak’s Wish by Kay McSpadden - such a sweet story of a mountain healer woman who goes to the city in 1950s. Careful what you wish for. If the author hadn’t explained that thus was a Pinocchio retelling, I’d never would gave guessed it.
4/5 Immortal Wish by Colleen Gleason - retelling of Little Mermaid where Lyla is an Atlantean. Imagine how it would feel, going up top for the very first time. An interesting prequel to how DEA agent Lyla Harris came about.
4/5 Unseen by Christine Pope - Janna is one of the few (0.5%) survivors immune to the Heat, the deadly fever to which turns most of population to ash and leaves Earth to be ruled by the djinn. Another story of the One Thousand djinns & Djinn Wars series - besides the one I’ve previously encountered in Once Upon A Ghost.
4/5 First Snow by Alexia Purdy - Snow Queen meets 12 Swans / 7 Ravens - a girl goes in search of her 7 brothers lost during camping and ends up in the Winter Realm. Did you know that the first winter snow in those woods robs you of your memory in exchange for life? Jonna’s stay with the fae king reminded me of Greta losing herself in the summer garden en route to find Kaj. A bit melancholy, but with a HEA.
4/5 Lady of the Lake by Julia Crane - arthurian tale where Lady of the Lake wants to be mortal for a day. I half-expected the Lady to turn into Morgana, but perhaps in a sequel…? A cool ditty, mostly about ancient beings coming of age.
4/5 The Wishing Thorn by Jamie Ferguson - argh, this will haunt me like a bitten sandwich now. I loved the heartbreaking story of Leah & her wish made in anger, but hated that it ended with a cliffhanger.
Last Wish by C.Gockel - a Native-American fairytale of the wife of Coyote, something worse than death - wasn’t quite my cuppa. It’s a fairytale that breaks away from the general tone of the anthology, but accounts for a bipoc element in the set.
Recommended for lovers of NA or actually timeless retold fairytales, especially humorous ones.
February 4, 2022
🥀I love love love faerie tales, like I truly live for them in and out. It's been long, I didn't read any and also it's been long that I didn't got a chance to read any anthologies, well a big round of applause for all the wonderful authors for their contribution in this very magical book. In and out, this is definitely one of my most favorite books of the month. This is a collection of 16 tales, each one is different from one another in all aspects because of course they're written by different authors.
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Best thing about reading it was, you get a variety and so much of diversity in a single book. It's enchanting, creative and magical. The characters are so unique and mesmerizing, like they're not really short stories, they feel like a full fledged stories because they're so well written. I think you need to read this book to actually experience the thrill, the joy, the magic, the pain, the darkness and the intense love. It also touches on a lot of themes, reading it felt like an adventure on another level, I honestly can't pick one favorite story but here are the few that I really loved and I will re read them very soon, ayya!!
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"The Dust Wish", had my heart from the very beginning and I'm just gonna say it's so stunning. "Wallina" by Nikki is going to be the story that's really close to my heart, it's a precious tale filled with emotions.
"Immortal Curse" is really something I wanna re live, like it's not just dreamy but uniquely presented. "The Wishing Thorn" tells us Leah's story that's filled with possibilities and twists. Last but not the least, "Heart Of The Forest" reminds me of Disney movies and makes me hungry for more.
I felt like I just watched a series of wonderful Disney movies with unique characters, I certainly wanna wish to see this on big screen. Go for it. It's very refreshing and remarkable.
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Rating: 4.25⭐️
February 18, 2021
Do you remember the last time a story made you think about it for days? That's what happened to me when I read Pin Oak's Wish by Anthea Sharp in the Once Upon a Wish anthology. I'm not sure if it was the NC setting (I have lived here all my life), the melancholy but sweet ending, or Carl's choice not to accept an offered gift, but I found this story resonating in my mind for several days.
The story of Thumbelina has never been one of my favorites, but Nikki Jefford has fixed all of my issues with this story in her rendition, titled Wallina. Nikki has a talent for writing happy endings, and that makes all the difference in this story!
Ashes to Ashes by Phaedra Weldon is another of my favorite vignettes, but it ends too soon! I was completely entangled in the story and am eager to know what happens next. I would love to see this made into a full-length book.
The Dreamer's Curse by Rachel Morgan is a clever tale as well. This story didn't leave me hanging, but I'd still like to see this become a novel or even a series.
Unlike some anthologies, I truly enjoyed every single tale included in Once Upon a Wish. I highly recommend this escape from reality!
The story of Thumbelina has never been one of my favorites, but Nikki Jefford has fixed all of my issues with this story in her rendition, titled Wallina. Nikki has a talent for writing happy endings, and that makes all the difference in this story!
Ashes to Ashes by Phaedra Weldon is another of my favorite vignettes, but it ends too soon! I was completely entangled in the story and am eager to know what happens next. I would love to see this made into a full-length book.
The Dreamer's Curse by Rachel Morgan is a clever tale as well. This story didn't leave me hanging, but I'd still like to see this become a novel or even a series.
Unlike some anthologies, I truly enjoyed every single tale included in Once Upon a Wish. I highly recommend this escape from reality!
February 15, 2021
ARC received. This was such a fun collection of stories! Two of my favorite authors are featured so I read their stories first. Jenna does a cool twist on Rapunzel & Rachel’s unique spin on Sleeping Beauty were fabulous! Plus there’s so many great stories. If you enjoyed the other books in the series, this one is a must have! Even if you haven’t read the others, it’s a great introduction to some amazing authors
February 16, 2021
I mainly got this to read Rachel Morgan's short story 'The Dreamers Curse'. It's a great selection of stories and well worth a read, but for me the highlight was returning to the world from 'A City of Wishes'. I could read a full length story about Cress, or even The Godmother (please Rachel Morgan, that would be a fab idea and a book we'd all love - back story maybe?!).
I haven't read all the stories yet, but I'm working on it and loving it...
I haven't read all the stories yet, but I'm working on it and loving it...
February 20, 2021
I enjoyed reading Once Upon a Wish with all the different fairy tales retold with each authors own version of the original story. Each one was unique and special in their own way. You really get to sample the different writing styles with each of the authors. I already injoy reading books from Rachel Morgan and Jenna Elizabeth Johnson but now after reading this I found a couple new authors to check out as well. I highly recommend!
April 9, 2021
3.5
This was a good short story collection with some stories that I really enjoyed and some that I didn't care for. There were a few that ended very unsatisfactorily and really felt like they were the set up for a novel instead of a short story. I have read every anthology in this collection/series now which has a lot of repeating authors and honestly it just keeps reminding me that I need to check out some of these author's other works.
This was a good short story collection with some stories that I really enjoyed and some that I didn't care for. There were a few that ended very unsatisfactorily and really felt like they were the set up for a novel instead of a short story. I have read every anthology in this collection/series now which has a lot of repeating authors and honestly it just keeps reminding me that I need to check out some of these author's other works.
February 3, 2022
Faerie tale collection.
I never know how to rate a collection of stories. These stories are all based on faerie tales that are based on stories already known by most readers. What makes these so good is that they are just different enough to hold your interest. They are all very good and a great change of pace. Enjoy reading them.
I never know how to rate a collection of stories. These stories are all based on faerie tales that are based on stories already known by most readers. What makes these so good is that they are just different enough to hold your interest. They are all very good and a great change of pace. Enjoy reading them.
March 29, 2022
The 3-star rating would be my average rating of all stories combined. There were several stories I really enjoyed, a few that I didn't, and some that were okay. But overall this book is a great read if you're looking to enter the realm of magic, faeries, and wishes.
November 22, 2025
Great collection of stories
I loved the collection of stories. They were all amazing and spin off of fairy tales. Each author made the story so unique and interesting. This is great light reading. I also liked the info on each author.
I loved the collection of stories. They were all amazing and spin off of fairy tales. Each author made the story so unique and interesting. This is great light reading. I also liked the info on each author.
February 17, 2021
Some of retellings were delightful, some rather quirky and some, unfortunately, a bit tougher.
Read
June 28, 2021I didn't finish the whole anthology - this days I just read the story for the author that I bought the book for and hung, pick and chose from the rest
April 21, 2022
I loved this just as much as I loved the rest in this series! I truly love these compilation books so much! I come across so many authors I didn't know and are now on my watch list for books!
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