Reign of Cinders and Glass offers an enjoyable twist on the beloved Cinderella tale, taking us on an adventure full of surprises. With vampires, espionage, romance, and more, the story leaves the reader wanting nothing. Our FMC embarks on a journey of growth, transforming into the badass heroine we all root for. Add in a unique magic system, and needless to say, I was hooked. For me, fairytale retellings can be hit or miss, but I was pleasantly surprised by Reign of Cinders and Glass. Veronica Douglas and Linsey Hall have successfully added a fresh spin to the classic fairytale.

This was a good fantasy book! It was a great start to the new series. The magic system was great and I feel like I was there in the world.

At first I wasn't too sure and the story looked a bit unhinged, but once you get emerged into it and it really gets going you cannot stop turning the page.

Some really good twists and turns, and the main characters are amazing.

Really satisfying resolution. Would definitely recommend!

This was my first read by Limsey Hall and Veronica Douglas and would not be the last.
Reign of Cinder and Glass got me hooked from the first pages. I love retellings and even more when characters are better, and vampires are involved.
I love the changes made for Cinderella and the prince. Ella starts as a simple farm girl and transforms into a powerful ans determined force. The prince is so much better: dark, dangerous, irresistable. I am obsessed with the chemistry between these two.
The writing, the world, the characters, the plot, the agonizing slow-burn romance, the plot, the twists and turns, every little thing makes this book so perfect.

I just learned this about myself as a reader: I am not hooked by a descriptive opening line. I read the first sentence—twice—and still didn’t really take anything in 🙃.

However, while the opener didn’t grab me, the rest of the beginning definitely did! Ella, searching for her missing sister Belle, discovers that both Belle and their stepmother are part of a human resistance fighting against vampires. To track down Belle and gather intel for the resistance, Ella takes a job at the vampire castle. She’s got silver hair, lavender eyes, and—of course—a missing or dead mom, so we know there’s some secret magic in her future. Oh, and she’s really good with animals.

This book hit all the things I love in a retelling! A strong, take-no-crap FMC with a huge heart, plus all the Cinderella must-haves: a mean stepmother, endless chores, a glass slipper, animal companions, and some seriously awful stepsisters (though, not Ella’s). There’s also a drunken fairy godmother, vampires, magic, a one-horse moment, and an MMC who’s protective and obsessive. Could it get any better? Actually, yes—the writing!
Stories like this can easily be ruined by cringey writing, but this one? It was witty, quick, and engaging. The authors knew what they were doing and really delivered. Plus, it’s part of an interconnected series but still works as a standalone, so you get that sweet HEA! (Also, I’m already seeing a story between Belle and Valen 👀.)

There are only two spicy scenes, making this perfect for readers who aren’t huge on spice—but still satisfying for those who are. The pacing was perfect, with no slow moments, and the world-building was smooth and unforced. Even the light political touches added to the story without dragging it down. I was hooked from start to finish.

⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️

This is my favorite Cinderella retelling so far. The story grabbed me from the start. I loved the characters, the world-building, the magic, and the abundance of fairytale elements woven throughout. The plot was full of mysteries, surprises, and revelations that kept me hooked.

Ella was a fantastic protagonist, she was kind but also brave and clever. I liked how naturally magic came to her and how quickly she mastered it. Cassius was a strong lead with great depth to his character. The twist that immortals couldn’t possess magic added an interesting layer to the story. I loved the romance, the tension, and the playful banter between Ella and Cassius,their dynamic was truly unmatched.

The ending felt a little bit rushed, I wanted to know more what happens after the coronation but I hope we will see it in the sequel.

Thank you to the authors, the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC!

I always enjoy and retelling and this definitely did not disappoint!! Cinderella (slight beauty and the beast) mixed with vampires and adventure! I loved it!
My first with this author but not my last! So easy to get gripped into this story and just want to keep reading more! The duel pov was perfect! I enjoyed the twists and suspense in parts! The light spice is perfect for this type of slow burn. Highly recommend this read

First off I just wanted to say thank you to Netgalley and the authors for allowing me to read this arc. I’m so happy I got to experience this story and all of the characters.
This book pulls you in like the magic heart and keeps you there until you’ve finished it. I love how strong and consistent Ella is. I love Cassius and his love for Ella, as well as his ability to realize there needs to be change, instead of the typical stubborn MMC that doesn’t listen to anyone. These characters, the plot, and everything in between is written so beautifully I couldn’t put this book down. I also think I need to crown this book for the slowest slow burn I have ever read (in a good way!). I love the undeniable tension, but loyalty to their people. Everything about this book is just perfect. I also wish I had Ella’s powers! I cannot wait for Belle’s story!

"Reign of Cinders and Glass" offers a darkly enchanting vampire twist on the classic Cinderella tale, proving that some fairy tales are best served with a side of fangs. This adult retelling transforms the familiar story into a dark fantasy romance that manages to feel both fresh and faithful to its source material.
At the heart of the story is Ella, a compelling female protagonist whose self-sacrificing nature adds depth to the traditional Cinderella character. Her dynamic with Cassius, the brooding vampire prince, creates an intriguing central relationship, though readers' mileage may vary on the instant attraction between them. While some find their intense connection captivating, others might wish for more gradual relationship development to fully invest in their bond.
The world-building shines as magical elements unfold throughout the narrative, creating a rich, atmospheric backdrop for this supernatural romance. The author cleverly reimagines familiar elements of the original tale – including an unexpectedly complex stepmother and a scene-stealing mouse named Pip – while weaving in vampire lore and dark fantasy elements that give the story its own identity.
However, where the story truly excels is in its character ensemble. It's rare to find a book where the entire cast of characters proves engaging, but this novel manages that feat, leaving readers eager to explore more of their individual stories. The unexpected directions the plot takes, particularly regarding traditional characters like the stepmother, keep readers guessing despite their familiarity with the original tale.
While the insta-love aspect might not appeal to all readers, those who enjoy their romance with immediate passion and high stakes will find plenty to love here. The book proves intensely readable – many readers report devouring it in a single sitting – and the anticipation for book two is already building.
"Reign of Cinders and Glass" is a must-add to any TBR list for fans of dark fantasy romance, vampire fiction, or fairy tale retellings. Though it may not perfectly balance all its elements, it offers an addictive reading experience that successfully reimagines a classic tale for an adult audience.

Linsey Hall has done it again! And thanks to this book I have another new author to look into Veronica Douglas! I’ve been a fan of Linsey since her “Charming Cove” series. When I heard she was doing Disney fairytale retelling with a fantasy twist I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one. Let me tell you folks this is definitely one of my favorite books of the year and I need my hands on book 2 already.

Before we talk about book 2 potential let’s back up and talk about the first one in this new series, “Reign of Cinders and Glass”. Which if you haven’t gathered from the title is a Cinderella retelling with a fantasy twist. Ella our MFC is a human sent to Vampire Prince Cassius castle to search for her missing sister. However, she is recruited while working in the castle to spy for the Human Resistance. Ella discovers not everything is as it seems and she’s more powerful than she’s ever known.

I loved this unique take on the retelling of Cinderella. The magic system, the characters, the romance were captivating and enjoyable from start to finish. Now that we’ve been introduced to this world I can’t wait to see where we go next. I have a strong suspicion it will be Belle, Ella’s sister, story next but I’ll have to wait and see.

I can’t say it enough I loved this book and I highly recommend everyone read it! Big thanks to NetGalley & Magic Side Press for providing me an arc to read and review!

Super fun retelling of Cinderella! Very well-paced, especially the romance. FMC was strong without being irritating and I enjoyed the banter between the FMC and MMC. Quick read. Would recommend to any romantasy lover not wanting to start an entire series!

I absolutely love fairytale retellings and this makes the list in top 10 (and there are hundreds!). This is an adult Cinderella retelling and I cannot wait to include it in my tiktok top fairy-retales. We've got vampires, atmosphere, romance, found magic, and all the best parts of a romantasy. Love this.

Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

I’m not one for ‘re-tellings’ but this one had me from the start! There was not one point in this book where it didn’t have me hooked, I ate this up and I’m so happy I did!

This is a Cinderella retelling, obviously it’s a little more darker & the story & plot was absolutely amazing! This had me gripped from the start.
Ella loves at home in her country manor with her step mother after her father goes missing & then her sister also disappears…
She tries to find her & then starts snooping & ends up working in the castle for the prince called Cassian who is a VAMPIRE.

I can not recommend this book enough! I’m excited to read any future re-tellings that makes this into a series!

A delightful retelling of the timeless fairytale Cinderella—but with vampires and witches and mages and other monsters that go bump in the night.

I would put this story firmly in the romantasy column—more specifically, a romantic fantasy with a dash of spice.

There's a sexy push and pull between these two that adds to the slow burn element that makes this a romance but at times I felt it was interrupted with the politics of the fantasy world.

Enjoyable read for all those who love Disney but also hold a space for the Brothers Grim fairytales.

Big thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the authors for an advanced copy of this book—happy publication!

Cinderella retellings are my absolute favorites! And I loved this one! It was very unique and action packed!

⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

ARC Review

A fabulous Cinderella retelling.

I really enjoyed this book and the twists and tweaks to the beloved Cinderella story.

I was hooked from the first chapter, with the depth of world and characters created. The darkness and spice added to the tale was a delight, as were the little nuggets that we know and love from the original tale dotted throughout.

I also loved how Ella became Cinderella, her strength and fierceness and the broodiness of Cassius’ character.

“Fates, she was fierce—yet her heart was pure.”

Only didn’t get 5 stars because I feel the ending of the book was rushed after the build up.

“And what future do you see for us?” “Why, you’ll live happily ever after, of course!”

Now looking forward to book two and Belle’s story.

Themes/Tropes:
High Fantasy, Retelling, Paranormal, Dark, Enemies to Lovers, Magic, Monsters/Fantastical Creatures, Vampires & Multi POV.

3/5 🌶 rating

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

A fantastic Cinderella retelling. Vampires and humans who doesn't love that. In a world where vampires rule and humans serve, magic wiped out hundreds of years ago, or so is thought. Ella gets herself hired at the castle to try and find her sister.

With a strong will and a head on her shoulders Ella tries to discover the secrets within.

Prince Cassius is the epitome of a morally grey MMC.

With easy to read dual POV I've found this book has hooked me easily and left me wanting more. I really don't want to wait until March 2025 for Kingdom of Roses and Flame.

The interaction between the FMC and MMC has me enthralled and not wanting to put the book down. Both carrying their own secrets but you as the reader are let in on them, one of my favourite reads of the year.

3,5 stars. This was a nice and easy to follow romantasy read! I did enjoy the romance part of it but also the worldbuilding. Thank you NetGalley for providing me an ARC.

A slow-burn, spicy vampire twist on Cinderella? Count me in. Ella is on the top of my list as one of my favorite FMCs. She doesn’t back down and fights for what she believes in, even when facing the immortals. And Cassius, whew, I love a good touch-her-and-💀 trope and this man delivers. He is a broody, dark prince that can handle what Ella dishes out and I ate up every second we got them together. The plot was well-paced and intriguing, a page turner for me. I loved everything about this story, easily 5 stars with how fun it was. I cannot wait for book 2!

Thank you to NetGalley and victory editing for the opportunity to read this e-ARC.

When I first started this book, I wanted to DNF it - I was not in a mood to read about another vampire who is a mix of Edward Cullen and Rhysand and his Feyre love interest. I am so glad when I am wrong!!!

This is a fun Cinderella story with a powerful spy Ella and the vampire prince who is our tortured hero (not Rhysand) and needs to find himself a wife in a very wild, imaginative and a bit crazy world. The first chapters were not doing anything for me, but since the moment this book's version of evil stepsister appeared, I was giggling and cackling and kicking my feet happily. I really did enjoy all the twists and the interaction between our protagonists. And I love Ella's character very much!

I was even planning to give it 5 stars because the story and the pace were great almost until the end. The end was sweet, but a bit weak. A lot of things happened too fast and it seemed rushed and unfinished somehow. But it really was cute.

All considered, I give it 4/5 ⭐ and I can't wait to read the whole series starting with the second book hopefully next year.