What do you think?
Rate this book
The Amaranth Enchantment
It only takes one magical moment...
Fifteen-year old Lucinda Chapdelaine was orphaned as a young child when her parents left for a royal ball for a royal ball and never returned. Ever since, she has toiled away in her uncle's lonely jewelry shop under the cruel hand of her step-aunt. But now, all at once Lucinda's luck is about to change.
A mysterious woman, a handsome young man, and an unusual gem all enter the shop on the same day. The woman is non other than the dreaded Amaranth Witch, and she has a daring task to offer. If Lucinda succeeds, she will not only reclaim all that is rightfully hers, but she will discover a true friend...and perhaps true love. Family secrets, magical surprises and another royal ball will test her, but Lucinda is determined to find her own happily ever after.
Fifteen-year old Lucinda Chapdelaine was orphaned as a young child when her parents left for a royal ball for a royal ball and never returned. Ever since, she has toiled away in her uncle's lonely jewelry shop under the cruel hand of her step-aunt. But now, all at once Lucinda's luck is about to change.
A mysterious woman, a handsome young man, and an unusual gem all enter the shop on the same day. The woman is non other than the dreaded Amaranth Witch, and she has a daring task to offer. If Lucinda succeeds, she will not only reclaim all that is rightfully hers, but she will discover a true friend...and perhaps true love. Family secrets, magical surprises and another royal ball will test her, but Lucinda is determined to find her own happily ever after.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2009
100 people are currently reading
9308 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,349 reviews
April 3, 2009
I was disappointed actually. Confusing, unsatisfying plot, I never sympathized with the protagonist, never saw why she liked the love interest. Obviously, anything with folkloric themes is going to be formulaic, but this managed to be formulaic without having any sort of clever addition.
It was a quick read, and maybe a teen who devours anything with a fairy tale plot will enjoy it.
It was a quick read, and maybe a teen who devours anything with a fairy tale plot will enjoy it.
August 27, 2016
Don't you love it when the book has a pretty cover? It makes the whole experience of reading that much better. Really . You know when you finish and look at the book longingly it makes you think " yeah the story deserved such a wonderful cover ". Ok now on to the story and to stop rambling about pretty pictures....
I am a sucker for fairy tale retellings so I went expecting to like it and that I did. This book uses some of the traditional Cinderella signatures. She is born of a wealthy family, later orphaned, meets a prince, has something like a fairy godmother, but Berry makes the whole tale spin into something incredibly original. Lucinda, our main character, is the one who holds the whole story together. She is feisty, vulnerable, loyal, stronger than she thinks, and funny in that way back when way.
The plot is fairly original like I mentioned. There are some twists but nothing way too shocking. The godmother of the story is a character you won't forget. I hope we see some kind of sequel to this book to see more of what happens to her and that retched stone. Beautiful but very troublesome. Peter the street thief is great. He is a little conceited I guess but I loved the way things ended up for him. Gregor is a dreamboat even if we don't get to see him that much.
I did have some qualms about the ending though. It isn't as neat as I would have hoped. Like when nobody really seems to care or notice what happened to the villain? What's up with that? Also we aren't sure if Lucinda tells Gregor how the big showdown happened. One thing I really did give kudo points to Lucinda for is that her whole happiness didn't cling on to the prince, but at the same time you knew she really cared and loved him. Not easy to do but the author did it.
I can't believe I almost forgot to mention Dog the goat. He's the real hero of the story:) You'll see when you read it.
I am a sucker for fairy tale retellings so I went expecting to like it and that I did. This book uses some of the traditional Cinderella signatures. She is born of a wealthy family, later orphaned, meets a prince, has something like a fairy godmother, but Berry makes the whole tale spin into something incredibly original. Lucinda, our main character, is the one who holds the whole story together. She is feisty, vulnerable, loyal, stronger than she thinks, and funny in that way back when way.
The plot is fairly original like I mentioned. There are some twists but nothing way too shocking. The godmother of the story is a character you won't forget. I hope we see some kind of sequel to this book to see more of what happens to her and that retched stone. Beautiful but very troublesome. Peter the street thief is great. He is a little conceited I guess but I loved the way things ended up for him. Gregor is a dreamboat even if we don't get to see him that much.
I did have some qualms about the ending though. It isn't as neat as I would have hoped. Like when nobody really seems to care or notice what happened to the villain? What's up with that? Also we aren't sure if Lucinda tells Gregor how the big showdown happened. One thing I really did give kudo points to Lucinda for is that her whole happiness didn't cling on to the prince, but at the same time you knew she really cared and loved him. Not easy to do but the author did it.
I can't believe I almost forgot to mention Dog the goat. He's the real hero of the story:) You'll see when you read it.
July 26, 2008
I do love this book ... but then again, I wrote it. :) Advance readers, I would love to hear your thoughts!
October 1, 2009
Only took me about two hours to read. If Ms. Berry had added more detail, and more description this book could have been wonderful, but there were not enough words to put a picture into my head. The end was very rushed.
SPOILERS:
I stewed on this book all night and have questions. 1. Have these people never heard of rope, handcuffs, or cages? Why does someone have to sacrifice themselves? 2. How the heck in the city that the prince went missing in, remembering the birth mark and that his mother knew it right off, does a street thief (whom you would expect to have knowledge of goings on) not know that the boy wondering outside could possibly be the prince? 3. Why would Beryl not go back to help Lucinda? She knows how easy it is to get back home now, and she knows that someone wants her stone badly, so she sends it back! Without anyone to protect Lucinda? Hello? 4. If the family could come and help Lucinda, why could they not get back the people that sacrificed themselves? (Barring question 1). 5. What the heck happened to Aunt? Did they make up? What? 6. What was with the gathering of a goat? Did someone not miss it? 7. Where was the person that originally sacrificed themselves for Coxley? 8. Why do they think it is a good idea to send their troublemakers to other worlds to make trouble?
I lost a whole night of sleep on the above. Yuck.
SPOILERS:
I stewed on this book all night and have questions. 1. Have these people never heard of rope, handcuffs, or cages? Why does someone have to sacrifice themselves? 2. How the heck in the city that the prince went missing in, remembering the birth mark and that his mother knew it right off, does a street thief (whom you would expect to have knowledge of goings on) not know that the boy wondering outside could possibly be the prince? 3. Why would Beryl not go back to help Lucinda? She knows how easy it is to get back home now, and she knows that someone wants her stone badly, so she sends it back! Without anyone to protect Lucinda? Hello? 4. If the family could come and help Lucinda, why could they not get back the people that sacrificed themselves? (Barring question 1). 5. What the heck happened to Aunt? Did they make up? What? 6. What was with the gathering of a goat? Did someone not miss it? 7. Where was the person that originally sacrificed themselves for Coxley? 8. Why do they think it is a good idea to send their troublemakers to other worlds to make trouble?
I lost a whole night of sleep on the above. Yuck.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2008
The Amaranth Enchantment, Julie Berry's debut novel, has the shadow of a fairy tale in its soul. Yes, there's a prince, but not just any prince; this prince looks like he swallowed the sun for breakfast. Yes, there's a royal ball, but not just any royal ball; this ball is to announce the engagement of the prince to a princess who looks like she was sculpted from spun sugar. And then there's our heroine, Lucinda Chapdelaine, who has not only wit, but compassion as well, not to mention brains and beauty, too. Add to this mix a rogue of a street thief, a faithful goat named Dog, a bit of magic, a maligned woman, and an immortal villain and you get a delightful and well-written read. Highly recommended.
September 14, 2018
A cute fairy-tale retelling of Cinderella.
The Amaranth Enchantment was one of those rare books that I randomly picked up and started to enjoy. I knew absolutely nothing about it but since it was a re-telling.. I, of course, had to read to it. In it, you will meet Lucinda. She is really likable character and definitely seems like Cinderella.
The few twists thrown your way are a bit predictable but still really enjoyable. I really like Berry, who is the "fairy godmother" of this book. As soon as they got reunited together, I knew that I was going to really like this book.
As for the men in this book, Peter and Gregor were interesting. Peter is the street thief that ends up stealing your heart. I really liked how things ended up going for him at the end of this book. Then there's Gregor, I just wish I got more of him. In my opinion, he deserved to be in more of the book/scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I did end up having some unanswered questions.. but I can move past that.
The Amaranth Enchantment was one of those rare books that I randomly picked up and started to enjoy. I knew absolutely nothing about it but since it was a re-telling.. I, of course, had to read to it. In it, you will meet Lucinda. She is really likable character and definitely seems like Cinderella.
The few twists thrown your way are a bit predictable but still really enjoyable. I really like Berry, who is the "fairy godmother" of this book. As soon as they got reunited together, I knew that I was going to really like this book.
As for the men in this book, Peter and Gregor were interesting. Peter is the street thief that ends up stealing your heart. I really liked how things ended up going for him at the end of this book. Then there's Gregor, I just wish I got more of him. In my opinion, he deserved to be in more of the book/scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I did end up having some unanswered questions.. but I can move past that.
April 28, 2009
This book was a sheer delight! Berry has created a fascinating world, and a mythology and magic that delighted me to know end. A romance, a mystery, an adventure . . . all the elements of a fairy tale are here, but the story is entirely new!
August 19, 2009
Part Cinderella story, part sci-fi story; it's an odd mix, and I'm not entirely sure it works all that well. The other world was an interesting twist, but bothered me in that both the world itself and the rules for coming and going from it seemed ill-defined, and ended up not really making much sense to me. It also bothered me that the relationships between various characters seemed to become too deep within too short a time period. I have a hard time with books where people fall in love at first sight, or on first meeting or whatever, with no real significant interaction between them. That happened in this book, as well as people becoming "the deepest of friends" almost immediately. I wish the action had just been stretched out to cover more time. And then there's the goat. This goat (named Dog, of all things) that just suddenly starts following the main character around and is super smart and super protective of her and manages to find her wherever she is, no matter where she leaves him. I'm not really sure what the point of it was, other than for the goat to miraculously help the heroine out of various sticky situations. I found it quite irritating. That said, I really liked a couple of the characters, and I got sucked into the story pretty quickly. The writing was good for the most part; I just wish that maybe Berry had put a little more into it.
January 23, 2010
"The Amaranth Enchantment" was an excellent fantasy book with lovable characters, a fast-paced plot, and a swoon-worthy romance!
Lucinda is an orphan, taken in by her uncle and wicked aunt. She is treated like a servant in their house and in their goldsmith shop. One day, everything changes when the mysterious woman known as the Amaranth Witch brings a spectacular gem into their shop to be set. The same day, Lucinda meets Prince Gregor, who is in search of a bauble to give his betrothed, whom he has never even met. Combine the magical world of the Amaranth Witch, the handsome and gallant Prince Gregor, a lovable street rat named Peter, and an endearingly loyal goat who thinks he's a dog, and you get one fantastic story!
I loved all of the characters in this book, and the way they were all so cleverly intertwined in each other's lives. Lucinda was a strong-willed heroine who had been through a lot, but she still had a soft and tender heart underneath it all. She wasn't so strong and hardened that she couldn't cry or be vulnerable with her emotions.
Lucinda's romance (almost a love triangle, actually) was just exactly what I love to read. Gregor and Lucinda's special night at the Winter Festival is exactly what every young girl dreams of. Gregor's small gestures of affection were heart stopping and really stood out as very romantic.
Peter was a lovable rascal and he was just like a cute puppy who you could never really be angry with no matter how many times he messes up. And Dog, the goat, practically steals the entire show-what a hero!
The only complaint I could possibly have about this book is that it could have been longer and the characters and situations even more fleshed out. There was so much to love, all of the scenes could have been even more in depth. However, the simplicity and innocence of the book was one of its charms.
I loved this book and will definitely put it on my keeper shelf! The characters really put this story over the top!
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/
Lucinda is an orphan, taken in by her uncle and wicked aunt. She is treated like a servant in their house and in their goldsmith shop. One day, everything changes when the mysterious woman known as the Amaranth Witch brings a spectacular gem into their shop to be set. The same day, Lucinda meets Prince Gregor, who is in search of a bauble to give his betrothed, whom he has never even met. Combine the magical world of the Amaranth Witch, the handsome and gallant Prince Gregor, a lovable street rat named Peter, and an endearingly loyal goat who thinks he's a dog, and you get one fantastic story!
I loved all of the characters in this book, and the way they were all so cleverly intertwined in each other's lives. Lucinda was a strong-willed heroine who had been through a lot, but she still had a soft and tender heart underneath it all. She wasn't so strong and hardened that she couldn't cry or be vulnerable with her emotions.
Lucinda's romance (almost a love triangle, actually) was just exactly what I love to read. Gregor and Lucinda's special night at the Winter Festival is exactly what every young girl dreams of. Gregor's small gestures of affection were heart stopping and really stood out as very romantic.
Peter was a lovable rascal and he was just like a cute puppy who you could never really be angry with no matter how many times he messes up. And Dog, the goat, practically steals the entire show-what a hero!
The only complaint I could possibly have about this book is that it could have been longer and the characters and situations even more fleshed out. There was so much to love, all of the scenes could have been even more in depth. However, the simplicity and innocence of the book was one of its charms.
I loved this book and will definitely put it on my keeper shelf! The characters really put this story over the top!
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/
September 24, 2008
This is the first novel by Julie Berry and it is a lovely fairy tale - aimed at ages 10-14 but I really enjoyed it. It gives nods to many of the classic fairy tale stories and includes everything you need - princes, lost inheritance, wicked step aunts, witches, evil lawyers,a magical stone and a loyal goat named DOG. The writing is lovely with wry touches of humor -even a well hidden moral or two - and a happy ending.
Highly recommended for the young ladies of your acquaintance or you might want to read it yourself.
Highly recommended for the young ladies of your acquaintance or you might want to read it yourself.
March 12, 2011
Despite the two star rating, this book really was enjoyable. However, it was a very generic fantasy/fairy tale novel. One thing that really frustrated me was that the setting was so ambiguous that certain things seemed out of place. Details pointed me towards the Victorian Era (the use of the words hats, the emphasis on Christmas), but others suggested another era. The last names suggested France, but the first names were decidedly English. Berry was clearly going for her own made up place, but she referenced real places (Gibraltar), so it felt very muddled and it bothered me.
Our hero, Lucinda, is pretty generic, too: spirited and beautiful (but she doesn't recognize that, of course). She even has a goat sidekick--I don't have enough fingers and toes to count how many times that has been done. It also bothered me that she falls in love with her love interest upon their first meeting. Um, hello, Lucinda. He could be a jerk, for all you know.
Lucinda's also very bipolar when it comes to other characters. I wish Berry had spent more time showing the links between steps in the relationships a little better.
A very enjoyable read, but I probably won't spend money buying it.
Our hero, Lucinda, is pretty generic, too: spirited and beautiful (but she doesn't recognize that, of course). She even has a goat sidekick--I don't have enough fingers and toes to count how many times that has been done. It also bothered me that she falls in love with her love interest upon their first meeting. Um, hello, Lucinda. He could be a jerk, for all you know.
Lucinda's also very bipolar when it comes to other characters. I wish Berry had spent more time showing the links between steps in the relationships a little better.
A very enjoyable read, but I probably won't spend money buying it.
July 17, 2012
Umm, really not impressed. I felt that most of the writing was fairly cliche and that there were ridiculous amounts of details in unimportant areas, and then no details in key plot points. There were several holes in the plot (like why didn't she just tell the prince the truth from the beginning?) but I could forgive that if the heroine was worth it. She's not. She starts off as a poor picked on Cinderella type but then the author tries to make her bolder, but it doesn't work. I never had much liking for her. Not to mention that there's no reason for her to love who she does, other than he's handsome. The author develops the main character's relationship with her pet goat more than that of the leading man. Not to mention I didn't really enjoy the whole sci-fi/fantasy combination. I'm sure others would like this, but I can't say much for it.
December 16, 2022
2022 Review - 4 Stars
I re-read this one several different times in high school but it wasn't high on my list of favorites. but re-reading this one now, I'm pleasantly surprised with how good it is. It is a fun fairy tale/fantasy novel that holds up better than I remembered. And it makes a great audio book!
Earlier Rating 3 stars
I re-read this one several different times in high school but it wasn't high on my list of favorites. but re-reading this one now, I'm pleasantly surprised with how good it is. It is a fun fairy tale/fantasy novel that holds up better than I remembered. And it makes a great audio book!
Earlier Rating 3 stars
March 8, 2012
The Amaranth Enchantment sounded so good when I read the blurb.
But blurbs are deceptive.
I find it really hard and disappointing to rate a historical--and fantastical!--book 2.5, but if I should be honest with myself, the book was a major let-down.
I was ready to give the book 5 stars at the beginning. I mean, why not? It was nice and funny. I LOVED Peter and Lucinda's first scene together. However, as the story progressed, everything went downhill.
I gave it 2.5 stars because I liked the plot and the characters; I also gave of character development, my confusion, the lack of rationality, and the truloveforever! (And majorly because she doesn't end up with a certain someone. In fact, none of the main characters, in most of the books I read, end up with someone else.).
I liked Lucinda, and LOVED Peter's character. Gregor, to me, wasn't the potential guy. He was more of a flirtatious playboy than a potential love interest. Beryl and Lucinda's friendship wouldn't be what I'd call close. Hell, they barely knew each other, and Beryl sent Lucinda literally to her grave (well, she would've, if it weren't for a certain interference).
All I'm saying is that the book is too short, despite its 306 pages (the font is a little bigger than most books). The author could've extended the story to properly develop her characters, and to show proper passage of time, and work EXTRA hard on the romance. Meeting someone a couple of times is NOT enough to make you fall in love, especially if the people hadn't spoken properly. Jesus.
P.S., what was with all those mortifying scenes? I had to bury my head under my pillow to shake off the embarrassment I felt for Lucinda. I don't like such scenes, but it is no contributor to the rating.
All in all, the book is great, but there are a lot of things lacking. I say read it, but you're up for some serious disappointment.
But blurbs are deceptive.
I find it really hard and disappointing to rate a historical--and fantastical!--book 2.5, but if I should be honest with myself, the book was a major let-down.
I was ready to give the book 5 stars at the beginning. I mean, why not? It was nice and funny. I LOVED Peter and Lucinda's first scene together. However, as the story progressed, everything went downhill.
I gave it 2.5 stars because I liked the plot and the characters; I also gave of character development, my confusion, the lack of rationality, and the truloveforever! (And majorly because she doesn't end up with a certain someone. In fact, none of the main characters, in most of the books I read, end up with someone else.).
I liked Lucinda, and LOVED Peter's character. Gregor, to me, wasn't the potential guy. He was more of a flirtatious playboy than a potential love interest. Beryl and Lucinda's friendship wouldn't be what I'd call close. Hell, they barely knew each other, and Beryl sent Lucinda literally to her grave (well, she would've, if it weren't for a certain interference).
All I'm saying is that the book is too short, despite its 306 pages (the font is a little bigger than most books). The author could've extended the story to properly develop her characters, and to show proper passage of time, and work EXTRA hard on the romance. Meeting someone a couple of times is NOT enough to make you fall in love, especially if the people hadn't spoken properly. Jesus.
P.S., what was with all those mortifying scenes? I had to bury my head under my pillow to shake off the embarrassment I felt for Lucinda. I don't like such scenes, but it is no contributor to the rating.
All in all, the book is great, but there are a lot of things lacking. I say read it, but you're up for some serious disappointment.
September 7, 2009
Lucinda is an unfortunate and rather silly 15-year-old orphan. When her uncle dies, his hateful widow turns the girl out penniless into the streets. Various unlikely things happen, including a good witch, a prince, prison, a ball, and a goat. Implausible but cute.
July 27, 2008
Written for young teens, but I loved this book- read it in two days. Ending was delightfully unexpected and heroine was very likeable.
May 5, 2019
What a delightful book! A magical fairy tale, replete with a prince, a princess, magic, bad guys, a common street thief, a castle and a special goat named Dog.
Personally Dog was my favorite character. I’m a sucker for an animal who is smarter and more trustworthy than most humans. Aren’t we all?
Personally Dog was my favorite character. I’m a sucker for an animal who is smarter and more trustworthy than most humans. Aren’t we all?
July 5, 2013
I enjoyed many parts of this book, but mostly I felt it couldn't decide what type of book it wanted to be, and because of that I was always hesitant to warm up to any of the characters, because I waiting for the "rug to be pulled out from under me" so to speak.
Lucinda, our protagonist, has a great foundation for an interesting character (she's independent, clever, and determined), but ultimately I found her justification of her less-than-honest actions annoying at times (sometimes she did admit her wrongdoings, but it typically felt too little too late). Also, I wanted to like the possible love interests in her life, but they never felt accurately developed. One seemed undeveloped, so I kept waiting for him to turn out to be evil (won't say if he does or not), instead of enjoying Lucinda's relationship with him. And the other seemed overly developed for where the resolution of that relationship.
I liked the mystery of the stone, of the mysterious woman Beryl, and the world from whence she came. The magical part of this story was very captivating and I enjoyed the friendship that grew between Beryl and Lucinda.
Be warned though, that there are some fairly grim and dark scenes in the book. With attempted murders (and killings that happened in the past), the grimness of these crimes felt a bit heavy given the rest of the book.
I love a good fairytale! I love the sweet stories of Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. But what's often criticized is the love interest - the love at first sight aspect -- which, I'm usually fine to overlook if the rest of the story is similarly "fairytale-ish." But this book felt "fairytale-ish" in the aspect of love, and dark and "realistic" in almost everything else, and I think that's why I left with a less than satisfied feeling.
I really did like a lot of the foundations to this story, and the writing was smooth. Just, overall, I guess I'd wanted more.
Lucinda, our protagonist, has a great foundation for an interesting character (she's independent, clever, and determined), but ultimately I found her justification of her less-than-honest actions annoying at times (sometimes she did admit her wrongdoings, but it typically felt too little too late). Also, I wanted to like the possible love interests in her life, but they never felt accurately developed. One seemed undeveloped, so I kept waiting for him to turn out to be evil (won't say if he does or not), instead of enjoying Lucinda's relationship with him. And the other seemed overly developed for where the resolution of that relationship.
I liked the mystery of the stone, of the mysterious woman Beryl, and the world from whence she came. The magical part of this story was very captivating and I enjoyed the friendship that grew between Beryl and Lucinda.
Be warned though, that there are some fairly grim and dark scenes in the book. With attempted murders (and killings that happened in the past), the grimness of these crimes felt a bit heavy given the rest of the book.
I love a good fairytale! I love the sweet stories of Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty. But what's often criticized is the love interest - the love at first sight aspect -- which, I'm usually fine to overlook if the rest of the story is similarly "fairytale-ish." But this book felt "fairytale-ish" in the aspect of love, and dark and "realistic" in almost everything else, and I think that's why I left with a less than satisfied feeling.
I really did like a lot of the foundations to this story, and the writing was smooth. Just, overall, I guess I'd wanted more.
January 12, 2009
When Lucinda Chapdelaine was just five years old, her parents left for the royal ball—and never came back. Since then, she has had no taste of her old fancy life, forced instead to work for her cruel aunt at a jewelry store. Then, as if by fate, a mysterious woman and her equally mysterious jewel enter the shop, and Lucinda’s life is irrevocably changed. This chance meeting and others acquaint Lucinda with a varied cast of characters including the Amaranth Witch, a street thief named Peter, and even the royal prince, who land her in a set of wild situations. And along the way, Lucinda will make a few friends, escape evil clutches, learn about herself, and even discover the truth about her parents’ death.
The Amaranth Enchantment is truly a delightful and amusing read. Lucinda is so easy to relate to and sympathize with, especially because of the miserable situations she often finds herself in, and her quick thinking and wit make her a joy to read about. And the other characters, especially Peter the thief, provide much amusement as well. There are several exciting elements of fantasy, especially in the form of the Amaranth Witch, that will no doubt thrill readers. My only disappointment was that the Amaranth Witch’s world was not fully delved into and explored, which I would’ve appreciated. I also found it a little off when Lucinda declared her love for the prince after nearly just meeting him. But I did love how Lucinda’s little adventures took her everywhere from jail cells to the royal court. This novel is definitely a satisfying and entertaining tale.
Fans of Catherine Murdock’s Princess Ben will also enjoy Berry’s debut novel, even thought the Amaranth Enchantment isn’t as good as the spectacular Princess Ben. Fantasy and romance lovers will also like this cute story.
reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com
The Amaranth Enchantment is truly a delightful and amusing read. Lucinda is so easy to relate to and sympathize with, especially because of the miserable situations she often finds herself in, and her quick thinking and wit make her a joy to read about. And the other characters, especially Peter the thief, provide much amusement as well. There are several exciting elements of fantasy, especially in the form of the Amaranth Witch, that will no doubt thrill readers. My only disappointment was that the Amaranth Witch’s world was not fully delved into and explored, which I would’ve appreciated. I also found it a little off when Lucinda declared her love for the prince after nearly just meeting him. But I did love how Lucinda’s little adventures took her everywhere from jail cells to the royal court. This novel is definitely a satisfying and entertaining tale.
Fans of Catherine Murdock’s Princess Ben will also enjoy Berry’s debut novel, even thought the Amaranth Enchantment isn’t as good as the spectacular Princess Ben. Fantasy and romance lovers will also like this cute story.
reposted from http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com
January 9, 2011
This was a pretty good fairytale kind of story, even though I was pretty surprised when the author threw a little sci-fi action in there. A fairy godmother from outer space? Different. Not bad, just different. There were quite a few nods to some classic fairy tales that I enjoyed quite a bit, too. My favorite had to be when one of Lucinda's slippers came off while she was running away from the ball. She took a few steps, then ran back to get it. Why? Because it hurt her foot too much to run in stockings. Nice. Cinderella should have been so practical!
I really thought this was going to be a 5 star book for me, but the last few chapters seemed rushed. I still had a few minor things that I would have like to have seen cleared up. Maybe there is a sequel?
I was also a little disappointed in the prince. I never really felt like he deserved Lucinda. Maybe if he and Lucinda had spent a little more time together, I would have felt differently. Or maybe I'm just too old to be reading books about Love At First Sight? Nah. That couldn't possibly be it. *crickets chirping*
My favorite character had to be Dog...the goat. If you don't fall in love with him then you have no heart! I kept thinking that Lucinda should kiss that goat and see if a prince popped out of his scruffy fur! Oh well, no such luck.
I really thought this was going to be a 5 star book for me, but the last few chapters seemed rushed. I still had a few minor things that I would have like to have seen cleared up. Maybe there is a sequel?
I was also a little disappointed in the prince. I never really felt like he deserved Lucinda. Maybe if he and Lucinda had spent a little more time together, I would have felt differently. Or maybe I'm just too old to be reading books about Love At First Sight? Nah. That couldn't possibly be it. *crickets chirping*
My favorite character had to be Dog...the goat. If you don't fall in love with him then you have no heart! I kept thinking that Lucinda should kiss that goat and see if a prince popped out of his scruffy fur! Oh well, no such luck.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2023
2023 update: Reread as part of my ongoing shelf audit. Verdict: Not a keeper, though I do want to see if Berry has written anything more recently which piques my interest.
2017 review:
I picked this book up sometime... last summer, I think? because I wanted a light reread, and recalled this one being a lot of fun. And it was! In a fluffy sort of way, at least. It's a serviceable fairytale retelling, and charming, but kind of lacking in character depth - and in worldbuilding depth, to be honest. Convenient as it is to have a quick read to hand, I do feel like this book would have benefited a lot from increased length and detail.
The ending is... well, personally, I find 'everything falls perfectly into place' finales enjoyable much of the time, especially in a fairytale framework, but if that's not your jam you'll probably be unsatisfied by this. So: be warned.
2017 review:
I picked this book up sometime... last summer, I think? because I wanted a light reread, and recalled this one being a lot of fun. And it was! In a fluffy sort of way, at least. It's a serviceable fairytale retelling, and charming, but kind of lacking in character depth - and in worldbuilding depth, to be honest. Convenient as it is to have a quick read to hand, I do feel like this book would have benefited a lot from increased length and detail.
The ending is... well, personally, I find 'everything falls perfectly into place' finales enjoyable much of the time, especially in a fairytale framework, but if that's not your jam you'll probably be unsatisfied by this. So: be warned.
February 5, 2009
I was tempted to give this four stars because the end was a tad dissapointing.
The entire novel was fun, witty, and a charm to read. It wasn't until page 200 or so that I realized I was reading a fairy tale that loosely resembled Cinderella, then I began noticing the similarities. However, it also had some other fairty tales mixed in (that if I revealed which ones, would give away too much plot). I found the writing to be enchanting but it ended too suddenly. I wanted more from this author who shows so much promise!
All in all it was so close to a 5 I had to give it that. I definitely reccomend this novel.
The entire novel was fun, witty, and a charm to read. It wasn't until page 200 or so that I realized I was reading a fairy tale that loosely resembled Cinderella, then I began noticing the similarities. However, it also had some other fairty tales mixed in (that if I revealed which ones, would give away too much plot). I found the writing to be enchanting but it ended too suddenly. I wanted more from this author who shows so much promise!
All in all it was so close to a 5 I had to give it that. I definitely reccomend this novel.
July 23, 2009
Yet another Cinderella story.
Lucinda Chapdelaine is orphaned after an unfortunate chariot accident. Rather than the luxurious estate she had in her small childhood Lucinda is instead forced to spend the rest of her youth with a cranky, greedy Aunt. Still more misfortune awaits her and she is forced to be brave as the true villain of the story comes after her.
Berry has managed to add a new twist in the age old fable along with a bit of prince and the pauper and science fiction to make the tale her own. While the story is slightly predictable, and fairly unrealistic in human nature, young girls will enjoy this new adventure.
Lucinda Chapdelaine is orphaned after an unfortunate chariot accident. Rather than the luxurious estate she had in her small childhood Lucinda is instead forced to spend the rest of her youth with a cranky, greedy Aunt. Still more misfortune awaits her and she is forced to be brave as the true villain of the story comes after her.
Berry has managed to add a new twist in the age old fable along with a bit of prince and the pauper and science fiction to make the tale her own. While the story is slightly predictable, and fairly unrealistic in human nature, young girls will enjoy this new adventure.
March 18, 2015
A sweet fun read for younger girls. I read this to my daughters 15 and twin 13 year olds and they liked it. It is a retelling of Cinderella but it is very different. They gave the story a fun twist and it is a great read. The ending is a little silly but fun. My girls loved that everyone got there happy ending. I would say for 12 and up. There is a really bad guy and things get a little dicey for our main character and there is some violence, but overall very clean.
June 14, 2017
DNF'd. I only got about 10 pages in before wanting to rip out all my hair. The main character was petty and a victim. She thinks about how easy it would be to get out of her situation and how she wants to but then doesn't do anything!! She's an idiot and I was so disappointed. I've been wanting to read this book for 7+ years and it was such a let down.
September 9, 2008
I'd hoped so much to like this book - and I did! It's a fun read, with enough brilliant moments that you know this first-time author is going to produce better and better books. The heroine overcomes any tendency to remain a victim, and by the end even the villains have a chance at redemption.
July 13, 2010
A magical and enchanting fairy tale all on it's own.
The Amaranth Enchantment is a sweet story of love and magic.
The writing is beautiful with a cast of colorful characters set in a world perfect for any escape that will entertain anyone looking for a happily ever after.
The Amaranth Enchantment is a sweet story of love and magic.
The writing is beautiful with a cast of colorful characters set in a world perfect for any escape that will entertain anyone looking for a happily ever after.
February 11, 2021
Very boring and cheesy, and the audio narrator was bad, sounded like Siri would have been reading at times.... 😐😅
June 30, 2021
3.8
This book was definitely worth my time and it’s very interesting! I enjoyed it very much there were just a 2 things I would’ve liked to see.
Some people might say it’s too instant lovey, but I disagree since Lucinda has been through lots of trauma which would’ve brought into light what exactly she wanted for herself in the future as well as highlight what she would want in her future partner. It’s a matter of the connection is right and if both parties know what they want and are willing to commit. Love is a choice.
The synapsis gave me a really strong fairytale retelling vibe so I guess that’s why I went in expecting a fairytale retelling. I’m guessing the closest retelling it could’ve been would be Cinderella since that story fits the best, but it would be loosely based. The book is still really interesting with lots of new twists!
This book was definitely worth my time and it’s very interesting! I enjoyed it very much there were just a 2 things I would’ve liked to see.
Some people might say it’s too instant lovey, but I disagree since Lucinda has been through lots of trauma which would’ve brought into light what exactly she wanted for herself in the future as well as highlight what she would want in her future partner. It’s a matter of the connection is right and if both parties know what they want and are willing to commit. Love is a choice.
The synapsis gave me a really strong fairytale retelling vibe so I guess that’s why I went in expecting a fairytale retelling. I’m guessing the closest retelling it could’ve been would be Cinderella since that story fits the best, but it would be loosely based. The book is still really interesting with lots of new twists!
March 14, 2009
Don't you just love the cover? I do. It drew me to the book immediately. Luckily, the text lived up to the promise of the cover. What is it about? Why should you read it? It's a fairy-tale-esque book that is satisfying through and through. Our heroine, Lucinda Chapdelaine, is an orphan, now fifteen. Her parents left to attend a royal ball and never returned. Now, ten years later, Lucinda finds herself in a bit of a mess. Her evil step-mom Aunt treats her as a servant--and a stupid one at that. Her uncle is just as beaten-down as his niece. When her uncle dies, Lucinda finds herself homeless and friendless...
But I'm getting ahead of myself. It all begins one day at the shop--jewelry shop--when not one, but two interesting customers appear. One, an older woman, Beryl, leaves a large (but oh-so-mysterious) jewel at the shop for repair--she wants a new setting. The other a young man (and he's ever-so-dreamy) who makes our young heroine go all weak in the knees. Swoon-worthy and then some. This is only heightened when she learns he is not only fine, but royally fine--a Prince, Prince Gregor. He is seeking a special gift that says "forever" to give to his betrothed, a young lady whom he's never met.
When a visit from a priest prompts a command from the Aunt to return the jewel--he thinks the lady is a witch--Lucinda is given the task of returning the jewel. The Aunt fearing that if it is true, the bearer of the jewel might just become cursed if the "Amaranth Witch" is indeed a witch and becomes angry. But Lucinda...well...she doesn't return the jewel as ordered. Something compels her to hold onto it.
That night, a strange young man, Peter, appears demanding sanctuary in her bedroom. Rather than drawing attention to herself--and her uninvited guest--by throwing him out, she allows him to stay. On the floor. What she doesn't know is that he's a notorious thief. The jewel in her pocket, not quite as safe as she thinks...
These three strangers--whom she met within a very short amount of time--will change Lucinda's life for better or worse. It all comes down to whom she chooses to trust...and how much she's willing to risk for her happily-ever-after-ending...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,349 reviews