Marissa Meyer: Cinder

Cinder (Lunar Chronicles #1)
Marissa Meyer
Published January 3rd, 2012 by Feiwel & Friends         
ISBN: 0312641893
387 Pages


Synopsis
This is a Cinderella story with a twist. It is set in the far future of Earth, where humans have long colonized the moon, and moon people have evolved into an entirely different species. Earth humans have become so technologically advanced that robots, androids, and cyborgs abound. However, Cyborgs are thought of as less than human, basically second class citizens, with very few rights and even less respect.

Cinder is a girl stuck in a household with two step-sisters and a cruel and unforgiving stepmother.  Her adoptive father died long ago, and her stepmother blames and resents Cinder. Cinder, a cyborg, makes a living for the family working as a mechanic. The plague hits her shopping market and people are getting sick all around her.  Cinder finds out much about herself and her past, falling for the handsome Emperor along the way. This is a complicated story of with humor and plot twists. The book goes beyond a simple Cinderella story and dives much deeper becoming an emotional and intriguing ride.


Musings
I thought this was a great twist on the stagnate and often overdone Cinderella story. I think the author favors the movie Ever After, because I saw a lot of similarities, however the added content, unique setting, and awesome storytelling kept it fresh and moving fast. I finished in one sitting, which I rarely have the opportunity to do anymore - but it was so good, I made time.

I would recommend it to most, especially those looking for a fresh twist on an old classic. 4 stars!

-Rita

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