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The Other Cinderella
How far would you go for your happily ever after?
The fairy godmother Amelie has a secret. She's in love with Cinderella's prince - so in love, she'd give up her powers to be with him.
Amelie also has a plan. Kick Cinderella out of her own fairytale and snag the prince for herself.
But the fairy godmother doesn't realize she may not be the only one with a plot - and sometimes, fairytales bite back.
The fairy godmother Amelie has a secret. She's in love with Cinderella's prince - so in love, she'd give up her powers to be with him.
Amelie also has a plan. Kick Cinderella out of her own fairytale and snag the prince for herself.
But the fairy godmother doesn't realize she may not be the only one with a plot - and sometimes, fairytales bite back.
36 pages, Paperback
Published July 30, 2022
About the author
Beka Gremikova
41 books115 followersBeka Gremikova writes folkloric fantasy and light sci-fi from her little nook in the Ottawa Valley, Ontario, Canada. When she’s not travelling, playing video games, or dabbling in various art forms, she can be found curled up in a corner with a mystery novel. Her work is featured in multiple anthologies, and her debut book, UNEXPECTED ENCOUNTERS OF A DRACONIC KIND AND OTHER STORIES, released with SnowRidge Press in Fall of 2023. Be on the lookout for PROJECT KNIFE, set to release late 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
September 1, 2022
I liked this re-edited and expanded retelling of the Cinderella fairy tale more than the original, included in the "Fool's Honour" anthology. There's a few more details that were needed in some scenes, and the writing also flows better now.
As for the plot, this goes with the twist of the Fairy Godmother falling for the prince in place of Cinderella. I've seen this done before, and usually it can be divided in two varieties: one where the prince turns out to be an ungrateful brat and not worth the bother for the poor fairy, and another where the prince is worth it and reciprocates the fairy's feelings. There's also a variation of this in which the object of the fairy godparent's affections is Cinderella herself. But as far as I'm concerned, I've never seen a retelling in which the Fairy Godmother is... well, shady, and asking for trouble. Shady and groomer fairies are a thing for Beauty & Beast, and I was very surprised to find such a twist for this tale.
And I liked it! Without spoiling it, I'll only say that this is a case of thief robbing thief, and ends on such a promising note that I wish it were longer. The way the Fairy Godmother was going, she's likely to stab that poor old sod in his sleep, ha! Or at least, I'd hope she does, because ending up loving him wouldn't surprise me either. The point is, I'm in for unscrupulous Fairy Godmothers for once, and really, really want more from this story. It was too short.
As for the plot, this goes with the twist of the Fairy Godmother falling for the prince in place of Cinderella. I've seen this done before, and usually it can be divided in two varieties: one where the prince turns out to be an ungrateful brat and not worth the bother for the poor fairy, and another where the prince is worth it and reciprocates the fairy's feelings. There's also a variation of this in which the object of the fairy godparent's affections is Cinderella herself. But as far as I'm concerned, I've never seen a retelling in which the Fairy Godmother is... well, shady, and asking for trouble. Shady and groomer fairies are a thing for Beauty & Beast, and I was very surprised to find such a twist for this tale.
And I liked it! Without spoiling it, I'll only say that this is a case of thief robbing thief, and ends on such a promising note that I wish it were longer. The way the Fairy Godmother was going, she's likely to stab that poor old sod in his sleep, ha! Or at least, I'd hope she does, because ending up loving him wouldn't surprise me either. The point is, I'm in for unscrupulous Fairy Godmothers for once, and really, really want more from this story. It was too short.
Read
June 8, 2022November 20, 2024 UPDATE: The Other Cinderella is currently *F R E E* across all platforms until December 8th! If you love darker, twisty retellings to enjoy on a chill autumnal evening, this may be just your cup of tea! ;-)
You can find it here:
https://books2read.com/The-Other-Cind...
August 1, 2023: It’s TOC’s Book Birthday today! It’s been officially released for a year. 🥹 Between the craze of trying to get my dragon book ready, I forgot to do anything to celebrate. 😭 I’m considering giving away a few review copies 🤔 Thoughts, anyone? Suggestions for ways to celebrate that don’t break my (already empty) piggy bank? 😅😂
November 17th, 2022 update: I’ve lowered the paperback price on US Amazon to about $4.50. So if you’ve been wanting to snag this wee book, now’s your chance! And of course the ebook is permanently $0.99. :-)
August 1, 2022: It’s HERE!!! 😭🥳😭🥳 TOC is now available in both ebook and paperback! ✨ I don’t have many words right now, cuz I’m tired from staying up WAY too late. 🤣
July 29th, 2022: The Proof is here. And it's BEAUTIFUL. So shiny, and the colours and silhouettes just POP. I've submitted the paperback for Amazon Review, which I'm hoping goes smoothly and quickly so this lil beauty can be available on Monday alongside the ebook!
July 24th, 2022: I just ordered the paperback proof copy, guys. AHHH. Hoping it comes in sooner than the estimated time, but who knows. XD Either way, there's going to be an adorable little paperback, and I'm so excited!
July 13th, 2022: IT HAS A COVER. ALERT. IT HAS A COVER. *melts*
July 8, 2022: There's one more chance to win an ARC. If you're on Instagram, Anne J. Hill, my co-editor for the SHARPER THAN THORNS anthology, is hosting a giveaway of a number of books, and an ARC of "The Other Cinderella" is among them. The giveaway runs until July 12th at midnight EST; this will be the final chance to win an ARC of "The Other Cinderella" before its release on August 1st. I'm also working on a bit of character art of the two leads that I'll be sharing on there later. ;-)
July 3, 2022: I’m THRILLED to announce that “The Other Cinderella” is now available for preorder on Amazon and other retailers!!! 🥳🥳🥳 I will also be giving away three ARC copies—comment below to enter the drawing. (And if you don’t win an ARC, it’s priced at 99c USD, and won’t be going any higher for the foreseeable future. 🧡)
June 28th, 2022 ETA: SO CLOSE to finalizing the manuscript! And cover reveal sign-ups are now open. You can message me if interested in participating—the reveal will be July 13th. ^-^
June 20, 2022 ETA: I now have enough betas, thank you everyone! I’ve started polishing this story, and am on track for my deadline of finalizing the manuscript at the end of the month! 🥳
June 19, 2022 ETA: Looking for 3-4 beta readers to help offer feedback; turn-around of a week and a half. The story is going to be around 4,000-4500 words. ^_^ TIA!
***
My twisty Cinderella retelling is coming to your e-readers August 1, 2022!
Basically, imagine Loki as a fairy godmother, and you might get this story. Hop aboard if you're in for morally-grey characters, magic gone awry, and everyone trying to outwit each other. XD That being said, this isn’t a comedy…so be forewarned!
ETA: This story was published earlier this year in the Fool’s Honor anthology, but I’m making further edits and expansions to it before it releases in August. ^_^
You can find it here:
https://books2read.com/The-Other-Cind...
August 1, 2023: It’s TOC’s Book Birthday today! It’s been officially released for a year. 🥹 Between the craze of trying to get my dragon book ready, I forgot to do anything to celebrate. 😭 I’m considering giving away a few review copies 🤔 Thoughts, anyone? Suggestions for ways to celebrate that don’t break my (already empty) piggy bank? 😅😂
November 17th, 2022 update: I’ve lowered the paperback price on US Amazon to about $4.50. So if you’ve been wanting to snag this wee book, now’s your chance! And of course the ebook is permanently $0.99. :-)
August 1, 2022: It’s HERE!!! 😭🥳😭🥳 TOC is now available in both ebook and paperback! ✨ I don’t have many words right now, cuz I’m tired from staying up WAY too late. 🤣
July 29th, 2022: The Proof is here. And it's BEAUTIFUL. So shiny, and the colours and silhouettes just POP. I've submitted the paperback for Amazon Review, which I'm hoping goes smoothly and quickly so this lil beauty can be available on Monday alongside the ebook!
July 24th, 2022: I just ordered the paperback proof copy, guys. AHHH. Hoping it comes in sooner than the estimated time, but who knows. XD Either way, there's going to be an adorable little paperback, and I'm so excited!
July 13th, 2022: IT HAS A COVER. ALERT. IT HAS A COVER. *melts*
July 8, 2022: There's one more chance to win an ARC. If you're on Instagram, Anne J. Hill, my co-editor for the SHARPER THAN THORNS anthology, is hosting a giveaway of a number of books, and an ARC of "The Other Cinderella" is among them. The giveaway runs until July 12th at midnight EST; this will be the final chance to win an ARC of "The Other Cinderella" before its release on August 1st. I'm also working on a bit of character art of the two leads that I'll be sharing on there later. ;-)
July 3, 2022: I’m THRILLED to announce that “The Other Cinderella” is now available for preorder on Amazon and other retailers!!! 🥳🥳🥳 I will also be giving away three ARC copies—comment below to enter the drawing. (And if you don’t win an ARC, it’s priced at 99c USD, and won’t be going any higher for the foreseeable future. 🧡)
June 28th, 2022 ETA: SO CLOSE to finalizing the manuscript! And cover reveal sign-ups are now open. You can message me if interested in participating—the reveal will be July 13th. ^-^
June 20, 2022 ETA: I now have enough betas, thank you everyone! I’ve started polishing this story, and am on track for my deadline of finalizing the manuscript at the end of the month! 🥳
June 19, 2022 ETA: Looking for 3-4 beta readers to help offer feedback; turn-around of a week and a half. The story is going to be around 4,000-4500 words. ^_^ TIA!
***
My twisty Cinderella retelling is coming to your e-readers August 1, 2022!
Basically, imagine Loki as a fairy godmother, and you might get this story. Hop aboard if you're in for morally-grey characters, magic gone awry, and everyone trying to outwit each other. XD That being said, this isn’t a comedy…so be forewarned!
ETA: This story was published earlier this year in the Fool’s Honor anthology, but I’m making further edits and expansions to it before it releases in August. ^_^
July 13, 2022
Somehow this whole fairy godmother turned realistic-sympathetic villain turned victim (perhaps to-be heroine? -tbd) of another story situation altogether WORKS CLEVERLY. I don't recall enjoying a novella so much before but Gremikova's writing is amazing and I can't wait to read more from her now.
Can you still call a completely flipped around tale of Cinderella a "retelling"? I'm not sure. But this is quite the unpredictable and vastly fun, quick read! My reaction to Amelie (aka. our fairy "godmother" in the original tale, who, in this case, chose to fly off and 100% sabotage our poor Cinderella :D) was a mix of annoyance and sympathy (because, honestly, who REALLY wants their fate to be determined by a fairy tale? ;), a sprinkle of horror (because, well, who wouldn't be horrified when our precious, sweet godmother decided to NOT be one in this version?), and altogether too delighted when things turned out the way it did (the poetic justice and irony is it all is cleverly executed - I bow).
I'm pleasantly surprised since the pacing is excellent. The prose is very nice and feels quite like a fairytale and rather .... light, but also with depth at the same time (my favorite combo). I absolutely loved that buildup to the ending!
Trust me on this one - it doesn't disappoint. So go read it.
Also - I NEED MORE JACQUES. I FEEL LIKE I BARELY KNOW HIM BUT WHY DO I HAVE THIS FEELING THAT THEY'RE GOING TO BE DYNAMITE TOGETHER?! So keep an eye out for The Other Prince ;)
Content: G/very, very mild, while remaining very, very adventurous and fun.
P.S. The cover is gorgeous. And many thanks to Beka for including me on her beta reader team for this story! <3
Can you still call a completely flipped around tale of Cinderella a "retelling"? I'm not sure. But this is quite the unpredictable and vastly fun, quick read! My reaction to Amelie (aka. our fairy "godmother" in the original tale, who, in this case, chose to fly off and 100% sabotage our poor Cinderella :D) was a mix of annoyance and sympathy (because, honestly, who REALLY wants their fate to be determined by a fairy tale? ;), a sprinkle of horror (because, well, who wouldn't be horrified when our precious, sweet godmother decided to NOT be one in this version?), and altogether too delighted when things turned out the way it did (the poetic justice and irony is it all is cleverly executed - I bow).
I'm pleasantly surprised since the pacing is excellent. The prose is very nice and feels quite like a fairytale and rather .... light, but also with depth at the same time (my favorite combo). I absolutely loved that buildup to the ending!
Trust me on this one - it doesn't disappoint. So go read it.
Also - I NEED MORE JACQUES. I FEEL LIKE I BARELY KNOW HIM BUT WHY DO I HAVE THIS FEELING THAT THEY'RE GOING TO BE DYNAMITE TOGETHER?! So keep an eye out for The Other Prince ;)
Content: G/very, very mild, while remaining very, very adventurous and fun.
P.S. The cover is gorgeous. And many thanks to Beka for including me on her beta reader team for this story! <3
June 19, 2022
This is an absolutely fabulous short story. One of my favorite Cinderella retellings. Everyone should read it!!!
February 21, 2026
Per usual I’m an outlier on not liking a pretty popular book but it’s purely a “it’s me, not you” type of situation. In short, I’m not a huge fan of manipulative main characters shoving their way into places where they don’t belong, and I just felt terrible for the ousted Cinderella rather than the main character like I’m pretty sure I was supposed to.
Cinderella is a story that’s very near and dear to me so I don’t generally like stories that take too many liberties with it, so the fairy godmother being such a selfish egotist didn’t endear me to her at all, and while I know this author tends to go in slightly darker directions with her retellings, I just wasn’t a fan of that tone being here either.
But that’s just me, otherwise it was well a written short story! I was just personally left feeling depressed and sad for the real Cinderella and her fate, though quite happy the main character got what she deserved.
‼️Content‼️
Violence: a fairy’s wings are ripped off her (not detailed)
Other: magic; fairies/fairy godmothers; magical abilities/powers
Cinderella is a story that’s very near and dear to me so I don’t generally like stories that take too many liberties with it, so the fairy godmother being such a selfish egotist didn’t endear me to her at all, and while I know this author tends to go in slightly darker directions with her retellings, I just wasn’t a fan of that tone being here either.
But that’s just me, otherwise it was well a written short story! I was just personally left feeling depressed and sad for the real Cinderella and her fate, though quite happy the main character got what she deserved.
‼️Content‼️
Violence: a fairy’s wings are ripped off her (not detailed)
Other: magic; fairies/fairy godmothers; magical abilities/powers
August 4, 2022
Beka Gremikova has quickly become one of my favorite fairy tale authors. I have followed her stories in several anthologies that she's been in, and I enjoyed the short version of this story in Fool's Honor (released by Twenty Hills Publishing). When I saw that she planned to put out a longer version of the story, I pre-ordered the day that it came up!
So, what will you get?
+ A twisty Cinderella retelling that will leave you wondering what happened next
+ Intrigue
+ Interesting, complicated characters-- very in-depths (and some sarcastic boys as well!)
+ A fascinating and mysterious magic system
+ Fairies, princes, princesses... so much to enjoy!
+ A short read that you can get through in one sitting-- and you'll definitely want to read this all at once!
I will be following Beka Gremikova's career! For anyone that's a fan of fairy tales and folkloric fantasy, I highly recommend her stories. This is only about 30 pages, so it is a very quick introduction to Beka and her wonderful tales. :)
So, what will you get?
+ A twisty Cinderella retelling that will leave you wondering what happened next
+ Intrigue
+ Interesting, complicated characters-- very in-depths (and some sarcastic boys as well!)
+ A fascinating and mysterious magic system
+ Fairies, princes, princesses... so much to enjoy!
+ A short read that you can get through in one sitting-- and you'll definitely want to read this all at once!
I will be following Beka Gremikova's career! For anyone that's a fan of fairy tales and folkloric fantasy, I highly recommend her stories. This is only about 30 pages, so it is a very quick introduction to Beka and her wonderful tales. :)
August 24, 2022
A lovely, soft little story about the importance of truth and weighing our decisions, with a vicious twist at the end. I've read work by this author before, but this might be a new favorite. Looking forward to see what this author releases next.
August 21, 2023
Beka Gremikova’s way with words and short stories never ceases to amaze me. I can’t wait for any sequels she’ll write!
July 15, 2022
*4.5 stars
This was for sure one of the most unique Cinderella retellings I've ever read. It's eerie and epic and I loved every second of it. If you love twisted fairytales, Marvel's version of Loki, and stories with prose that sweep you away, this is definitely one I'd recommend!
**I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
This was for sure one of the most unique Cinderella retellings I've ever read. It's eerie and epic and I loved every second of it. If you love twisted fairytales, Marvel's version of Loki, and stories with prose that sweep you away, this is definitely one I'd recommend!
**I received a copy of this book from the author. A positive review was not required. All opinions are my own.**
July 11, 2022
Very possibly one of my favorite Cinderella retellings ✨💕
The Other Cinderella is a fresh, exciting take on the typical Cinderella story!! I love the Cinderella story and the many retellings based on the classic fairytale - and this is no exception!! The writing is a lot of fun, and I couldn’t help but wish for a happy ending for all characters involved 🥹 I’m definitely needing a sequel after that exciting ending!! #teamjacques
Thanks to Beka Gremikova for allowing me to beta read! I hope y’all enjoy following imposter Cinderella and her reluctant companion as much as a did!
The Other Cinderella is a fresh, exciting take on the typical Cinderella story!! I love the Cinderella story and the many retellings based on the classic fairytale - and this is no exception!! The writing is a lot of fun, and I couldn’t help but wish for a happy ending for all characters involved 🥹 I’m definitely needing a sequel after that exciting ending!! #teamjacques
Thanks to Beka Gremikova for allowing me to beta read! I hope y’all enjoy following imposter Cinderella and her reluctant companion as much as a did!
September 12, 2022
This is a very, very short retelling of Cinderella where the fairy godmother attempts to take Cinderella's place in the tale and snag a happy ending for herself. Of course, it doesn't quite go to plan.
I wasn't sure what I was expecting. This story is VERY short and the ending is more a comeuppance than a happy ending. Satisfying, but not necessarily the warm fuzzies that I normally get from fairy tale retellings. Still, I enjoyed it and its unique take on Cinderella!
I wasn't sure what I was expecting. This story is VERY short and the ending is more a comeuppance than a happy ending. Satisfying, but not necessarily the warm fuzzies that I normally get from fairy tale retellings. Still, I enjoyed it and its unique take on Cinderella!
August 30, 2023
This novella is too short, I WANT MORE!! The Other Cinderella is full of twisty characters in the form of Amelie and Jacques, and I loved it. It raises interesting questions of choice and worthiness in only a few pages. I want to know what happens to these two. A nice toothsome read in just a few pages!
August 7, 2022
Such a fun, quick read! I loved the trickster aspect of the story and the little twists here and there. I’m left needing more but also satisfied with the ending!
July 8, 2022
Wow that was a big twist! I knew before I read it there was a twist but didn't expect it like this!! That was enjoyable! I like how different it was compared to the normal Cinderella story!
Beka writes extremely well, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future!
**I received an ARC of this book from the author**
Beka writes extremely well, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future!
**I received an ARC of this book from the author**
February 23, 2023
Oh, okay, this one was so much fun! I really didn't expect the twist at the end but I loved how it turned out! I really enjoy different fairytale twists like this novella, The Other Cinderella shows just a version of how the original story can go and this version was a brilliant twist! I really liked it! Authors like Beka Gremikova really inspire me to think outside of the book when it comes to thinking about classic stories or fairytales!
November 29, 2022
So twisty and satisfying!
This was not at all what I was expecting, but I loved it! So satisfying. I look forward to more from Beka Gremikova. And THAT COVER. augh. Love it.
This was not at all what I was expecting, but I loved it! So satisfying. I look forward to more from Beka Gremikova. And THAT COVER. augh. Love it.
December 21, 2022
A fresh dark take on Cinderella, absolutely loved it!
In this 60-minute novelette in the space of just a few pages the author managed to turn Cinderella’s tale on its head and I adored it! What if the fairy godmother wanted the prince for herself and was willing to give up her fairy wings to become Cinderella in the Tale? What would happen to the real Ella? What would happen to the prince? A deliciously dark reimagining, recommended for the lovers of dark & twisted yet clean YA fairytales. Will definintely look out for more stories from this new indie fave author.
In this 60-minute novelette in the space of just a few pages the author managed to turn Cinderella’s tale on its head and I adored it! What if the fairy godmother wanted the prince for herself and was willing to give up her fairy wings to become Cinderella in the Tale? What would happen to the real Ella? What would happen to the prince? A deliciously dark reimagining, recommended for the lovers of dark & twisted yet clean YA fairytales. Will definintely look out for more stories from this new indie fave author.
August 3, 2022
I have to stop underestimating short stories. Sometimes they hold the same punch as a novel. This was one of those times. This story is so well written and beautifully executed. The characters hold themselves up on these short pages and make a name for themselves. I really loved everything about it and I can’t wait for more. Gremikova is a very talented writer.
August 1, 2022
Enchanting! :) Can't wait for more!
Read
August 4, 2022The Other Cinderella is a twisty and unconventional Cinderella story by Beka Gremikova, who is becoming well known in indie circles for her darkly clever fairy tale retellings.
The Other Cinderella wasn't my cup of tea because it prominently features trickster characters, and to paraphrase Winnie the Pooh, "I am a Bear of Very Little Brain, and trickster characters Bother Me." But if you like the trickster archetype (and I know many people do), you'll probably love this story.
The Other Cinderella wasn't my cup of tea because it prominently features trickster characters, and to paraphrase Winnie the Pooh, "I am a Bear of Very Little Brain, and trickster characters Bother Me." But if you like the trickster archetype (and I know many people do), you'll probably love this story.
October 25, 2022
This is a gripping short story that hooks you in from the first paragraph! A very interesting take on the Cinderella story that makes you question what you know about fairy tales. The main character, Amelie, is very interesting because you want her to succeed, but you also kiiiinda want her to fail. I was also very fond of certain grumpy coachman. ;)
August 4, 2022
Absolutely beautiful. Beka knows how to captivate an audience with her writing.
June 18, 2025
What happens if the fairy godmother falls for the prince and decides to change the well-known tale? A must read for fans of new spins on well-loved tales, twists, and stories in which actions have consequences.
Another enthralling fairytale retelling by the talented Beka Gremikova—definitely recommend adding her works to your TBR!
Another enthralling fairytale retelling by the talented Beka Gremikova—definitely recommend adding her works to your TBR!
February 25, 2023
I enjoyed this twist on the Cinderella story, and found it was a quick read in the moment. I only wish that it could have been longer, giving more of Amelie's story both before and after the events of novella.
October 12, 2026
oh yeah now *this* is a Cinderella retelling!! what a fantastic short story that grips you immediately and doesn’t let go until the very end. bravo 👏👏
August 18, 2022
A very interesting take on the Cinderella story. I feel there is a lot of lore to this world and I'd love to hear more about it and how things turned out for some of the other characters.
May 27, 2023
A brilliant retelling or even complete reimagining of the well-known Cinderella fairytale...or... Cinderella's tale stolen by a fairy... either way, I couldn't get enough of its twisty goodness! Everything about it, from its charming yet morally questionable characters to the descriptive writing style that added such vivid life to the story, was captivating and highly addictive enough to read the whole novella from start to finish in one sitting!
August 8, 2022
Not long enough!
Beka’s writing is always magical and amazing and leaves me wanting MORE! I loved the twistiness of this tale … but I need more!!
Beka’s writing is always magical and amazing and leaves me wanting MORE! I loved the twistiness of this tale … but I need more!!
August 17, 2022
This book has an interesting premise, but everything is rushed through, and nothing is fully explored.
Our protagonist has made a truly selfish decision--stealing Cinderella's happily ever after--and there's an attempt to get us to empathize with her; showing us a bit of why she made that decision. The problem is, when that's given maybe 5-10 pages, it just doesn't land. And there's no commentary on ambition or anything similar to save this disconnect, either.
I truly believe I would've loved these characters if we'd had time to see them fully developed, but what we were given ended up feeling hollow.
Our protagonist has made a truly selfish decision--stealing Cinderella's happily ever after--and there's an attempt to get us to empathize with her; showing us a bit of why she made that decision. The problem is, when that's given maybe 5-10 pages, it just doesn't land. And there's no commentary on ambition or anything similar to save this disconnect, either.
I truly believe I would've loved these characters if we'd had time to see them fully developed, but what we were given ended up feeling hollow.
February 26, 2025
A very intense short story, well placed twists
highly recommend ✨✨✨✨✨✨
highly recommend ✨✨✨✨✨✨
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews