Finished The Stepsister Scheme by Jim C. Hines. This book kicks off a new fantasy series for Hines, about three fairy tale princesses and the adventures they have.

This book focuses on Danielle de Glas Whiteshore (aka Cinderella). Danielle is trying to adjust to life in the royal castle now that she’s married her prince. But when Danielle’s stepsister Charlotte tries to kill her, the princess learns that her husband has been kidnapped — and that her servant Talia (aka Sleeping Beauty) is quite handy with weapons. Danielle and Talia team up with Snow (aka Snow White) and go to the dangerous realm of Fairytown in order to rescue Danielle’s husband. But whether the princesses ever make it back home again is anyone’s guess …

I enjoyed Hines’ Goblin series, and I was looking forward to reading more of his work. And there are few things I love more than a good twist on classic fairy tales. This book featured everything I’ve come to expect from a Jim Hines book — a classic fantasy world, an ordinary character turned reluctant hero, and lots of funny moments.

I liked how Hines took the traditional fairy tales and used them to give each princess her own personality, problems, and quirks. Of the three, I thought Talia had the most interesting backstory. Because instead of being awakened by a handsome prince’s kiss, Talia’s prince charming took horrible advantage of her sleeping body — which has left her with more than a few emotional scars. I’m interested to see what Hines does with her in future books.

Danielle and Snow also get their moments to shine, and I liked how Hines wove in other fairy tale elements with their characters. For example, instead of a glass slipper, Danielle has a glass sword, while Snow wears a necklace made of magic mirrors. Subtle little touches like that are some of the things I love best about fairy tale stories. I also loved the whole Charlie’s Angels, secret-protectors-of-the-kingdom setup.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fairy tale story with lots of action and plenty of girl-power attitude, check this one out. I’ll definitely be reading the next one. Thumbs up.

Up next: The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks.

Books in my TBR pile: About 20.

What about you guys? Reading anything good? Share in the comments.