Member Reviews

Promchanted is a teen novel where reality meetings fairy tale. Stella is a teen who feels the need to control everything. She literally doesn't know how to just enjoy the moment. Everything she does is planned down to the minute. At first she thinks everything is great, but then her boyfriend dumps her before prom, putting a wrench in all her carefully laid out plans. But she decides to forge ahead, only to have her friend invite a guy to their prom day Disney outing in her date's place. Turns out it's the waiter who witnessed her rather public break up. She's certain things couldn't possibly get worse...until they do.

Stella and waiter boy, Reece, seemingly get pulled into a fairy tale. One Stella apparently doesn't really remember (She's American and goes to Disneyland all the time. Mind boggling, right?),. Fortunately Reece knows the story and is determined to have everything go right so the fairy tale can have its happily ever after and maybe they can get home. That is, if they still want to go home after everything.

So what did I think?

First off, this book was quite long. It's less than 20 pages off breaking 400. I did feel like there were things that could have been pared down to streamline the story a little.
I also would classify this book as Teen fiction, not YA (there is a difference). This is a high school teen fantasy romance for sure. The main character is in high school and the most you get that would be concerning is the eventual kiss and maybe, if you have never seen the movie, you can stretch that and include the battle scene. Maybe. Not really.

That said, Stella was a pretty believable character. Though I did find that she let go of her need for a plan quite easily. She's spent 16-17 years of her life basically planning everything in her life in an attempt to control things. It is nice that she did have a realization that there is such thing as too much planning and that sometimes living in the moment is the best thing though. It was a well done "Aha" moment.

I didn't mind Reece. But he did very much feel like a background/support character. I really wished some of the 387 pages were devoted to getting things from his point of view. Maybe a look at that castle they kept mentioning. I wanted to hear about the library and the map room too!!! It wasn't just Stella! I also think it would have helped to flesh him out a bit as a character. Oh well.

Phil and Rose were interesting too. Rose was pretty much what I would imagine her to be, but Phil was a bit of a surprise. It worked though!

What really got me was the end bits. The who surprised me because I felt it should be the other way round. It just felt like it would be more believable then what did happen. And what did they do with Delilah at the end? Where did she end up living? Hopefully there's a book two adventure to tell us!

All in all I really enjoyed Morgan Matson's fresh spin on a fairy tale classic. She didn't 'ruin' anything for the Disney version fairy tale diehards. In fact, I think she might have actually added to the experience by allowing you to get to know more about the characters. Including Samson. lol I do think it could have been trimmed up a little bit, for the sake of length but it was still a pretty good read. as a fairy tale retelling, it does not disappoint!

Was this review helpful?

"Promchanted", by Morgan Matson, is a YA novel based in magical realism. Stella is a Type-A high schooler who likes to have everything planned in advance. However, when her boyfriend dumps her just weeks before Prom, all of her plans have been ruined. Her friends are determined to keep her smiling, so they take her to DisneyLand before Prom, and a new friend tags along. Reece is an unknown to Stella, and he drives her crazy. However, when Reece and Stella end up hanging out together, they find a hidden door in Sleeping Beauty's castle and are transported into the fairy tale. They have to work together to survive Malificent and escape from the fairy tale.

I thought this book has an original storyline, but I didn't really believe the Stella/Reece pairing. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

"Promchanted" by Morgan Matson is an enchanting and whimsical tale that will sweep readers off their feet. Stella Griffin's skepticism towards love stories takes a delightful turn when she finds herself transported into the very world of fairy tales she once doubted. Matson masterfully weaves a story that blends contemporary realism with fantastical elements, resulting in a heartwarming and unique narrative.

Stella's journey from prom-night disappointment to an unexpected adventure in a fairy tale realm is captivating. As she navigates the world of Sleeping Beauty alongside the charming yet challenging Reece, readers are treated to a rollercoaster of emotions, from hilarious clashes to heartwarming connections. Matson's writing shines as she deftly brings to life the classic characters of Aurora, Phillip, Maleficent, and others while giving them new dimensions through Stella and Reece's perspectives.

The evolution of Stella and Reece's relationship is a highlight of the story. Their initial friction evolves into a touching camaraderie and shared purpose as they endeavor to restore the fairy tale's balance. Matson skillfully explores themes of personal growth, friendship, and the transformative power of belief in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.

"Promchanted" reminds us that even in a world that seems fantastical, the struggles and triumphs of love and self-discovery are universal and relatable. With humor, heart, and a touch of magic, Morgan Matson has crafted a delightful narrative that ultimately affirms the power of true connection and the possibility of happily-ever-afters, both within the pages of a book and in our own lives. This novel is a testament to the author's storytelling prowess and is sure to leave readers with a satisfied smile and a renewed belief in the magic of love.

Was this review helpful?