Book: skate ever after by Mary Warren
Reviewed by Anonymous
Rating: 4/5
I was sold as soon as I read Roller Derby and Fairytale retelling. I wish I could be as badass as those roller derby girls. So does Eleanor. She is dealing with grief from losing her husband, while raising a daughter who is also grieving. She moves in with her mother to make things easier. When she stumbles onto a roller derby bout, she finds something that might make her happy again, as well as people who can give her a place to belong. There was such a good differentiation between the mood of the mother's house vs. the mood of the roller rink/ the penguin project. It almost reminded me of the movie "Pleasantville" in how they go from black and white, to slowly adding in color as they grow into their freedom.
Alex also makes a wonderful partner for Eleanor, and really helps her be her best self, while spoiling her in all the book boyfriend ways. He makes an excellent example of the all green flags hero. By the end of the book the family Alex and Eleanor create is chaotic and wonderful, with the whole Reapers team popping in for color commentary.
This is a beautiful book about grief and love and healing. About growing up and becoming your authentic self. I was surprised by how hopeful and fun it was despite dealing with such heaviness.
As to the fairytale retelling aspect, I was a little surprised how small a part it played in the overall plot, and I think it was a good choice. While I love fairytale retellings, I have found some that try too hard to stick to the source material, and don't worry as much about making an objectively good story first. I think this is a perfect blend of nods to Cinderella, while still being something completely new and fresh.
I am looking forward to seeing more with the rest of the team. Belle was my favorite character in this one, and I can't wait to see someone try to tame her chaos.
Thanks to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.