Fairy tale retellings offer a fresh take on classic stories, blending familiar elements with new twists and turns. 🏰💕These enchanting fairy tale books breathe new life into beloved tales, weaving magic, love, and adventure into beautiful narratives. Whether you’re a fan of Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, or more obscure fairy tales, these books will transport you to fantastical worlds and keep you spellbound.
15 Fairy Tale Books Full of Magic, Love, and Adventure
1. “Queen of Snow” by Laura Byron and Jessie Cal
Synopsis:
In this captivating retelling of Snow White, a young queen named Eira fights to reclaim her throne. Her kingdom has been usurped by a dark sorceress, forcing her into hiding. With the help of a charming prince and seven warriors, she embarks on a perilous journey. They navigate treacherous forests filled with magical creatures. Along the way, Eira confronts her deepest fears and uncovers secrets about her past. As she battles powerful enemies, she learns about the true strength of friendship and love. Eira’s quest for justice leads to an epic showdown.
Why You’ll Love It:
The lush world-building and dynamic characters create a spellbinding adventure that tops our list of fairy tale books. (Based on Snow White)
2. “Heartless” by Marissa Meyer
Synopsis:
Before Catherine became the infamous Queen of Hearts, she was a girl with dreams of love. This imaginative retelling of Alice in Wonderland explores her early life. Catherine aspires to open a bakery and marry for love, but the King of Hearts desires her hand in marriage. Her journey is filled with whimsical characters and magical events. Torn between duty and desire, Catherine makes choices that seal her fate. This story delves into her transformation from a hopeful girl to a heartless queen. You will captivated by her tragic descent.
Why You’ll Love It:
Marissa Meyer’s rich storytelling and emotional depth provide a new perspective on a classic villain. (Based on Alice in Wonderland)
3. “A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas
Synopsis:
Feyre, a mortal huntress, kills a wolf that turns out to be a faerie. To pay for her mistake, she is taken to the faerie lands by Tamlin, the High Lord of the Spring Court. As she navigates this enchanting but dangerous world, her feelings for Tamlin grow. Their romance blossoms amidst threats from ancient forces. Feyre discovers hidden powers within herself that are key to their survival. She must make difficult choices to protect those she loves. This retelling of Beauty and the Beast combines high-stakes action with a passionate romance.
Why You’ll Love It:
The immersive faerie world and the slow-burning romance will keep you hooked from start to finish. (Based on Beauty and the Beast)
Read more about the ACOTAR series by Sarah J Maas.
4. “Cruel Beauty” by Rosamund Hodge
Synopsis:
Nyx has been betrothed to the evil ruler Ignifex since birth, destined to kill him to free her people. When she arrives at his castle, she finds a labyrinth of secrets. As she spends more time with Ignifex, her feelings become conflicted. This retelling of Beauty and the Beast is dark and complex. Nyx must navigate her duty and her heart. She uncovers the mysteries of the castle and its master. Ultimately, her journey is one of self-discovery and sacrifice.
Why You’ll Love It:
The blend of mythology, magic, and intricate characters makes this retelling unique and enthralling. (Based on Beauty and the Beast)
5. “Cinder” by Marissa Meyer
Synopsis:
In a futuristic world, Cinder is a cyborg mechanic living in New Beijing. Her life changes when she meets Prince Kai and uncovers secrets about her past. As a deadly plague ravages the population, Cinder discovers that she is the key to the planet’s survival. Her journey is filled with danger, romance, and revelations. Alongside allies, she must confront the evil Lunar Queen Levana. This retelling of Cinderella is part of the Lunar Chronicles series. The story intertwines with other fairy tale characters in an exciting intergalactic adventure.
Why You’ll Love It:
The sci-fi elements and strong heroines create a unique and addicting series among our list of fairy tale books. (Based on Cinderella)
6. “Uprooted” by Naomi Novik
Synopsis:
Agnieszka lives in a quiet village next to a corrupted forest. Every ten years, the local wizard, known as the Dragon, takes a young girl to serve him. When Agnieszka is chosen, she discovers hidden powers within herself. Together, they must confront dark forces threatening her home. The bond between Agnieszka and the Dragon deepens as they face numerous challenges. This original fairy tale is filled with magic, adventure, and a heroine who grows into her power.
Why You’ll Love It:
The rich storytelling and strong heroine make this an enchanting story for fans of fairy tale books. (Based on various Eastern European fairy tales)
7. “The Wrath & the Dawn” by Renée Ahdieh
Synopsis:
Shahrzad volunteers to marry the boy-king of Khorasan to avenge her best friend’s death. Each night, she weaves enchanting stories to survive another day. As she gets closer to the king, she discovers the secrets behind his dark reign. Their relationship grows complicated as Shahrzad uncovers the truth. This retelling of Arabian Nights is filled with romance, mystery, and suspense. Shahrzad must balance her quest for revenge with her growing feelings for the king.
Why You’ll Love It:
The evocative prose and slow-building romance are truly enchanting to read. (Based on Arabian Nights)
8. “The Bear and the Nightingale” by Katherine Arden
Synopsis:
In a remote Russian village, Vasilisa grows up listening to tales of magic and spirits. When her village is threatened by dark forces, she must embrace her gifts to protect her loved ones. The arrival of a new priest causes tensions as he tries to rid the village of old beliefs. Vasilisa’s bond with the mystical creatures deepens as danger looms. This retelling of Russian folklore is atmospheric and haunting. Vasilisa’s journey is one of courage, love, and self-discovery.
Why You’ll Love It:
The lyrical writing and rich setting create a mesmerizing fairy tale book. (Based on Russian folklore)
9. “Ella Enchanted” by Gail Carson Levine
Synopsis:
Cursed with the gift of obedience, Ella must follow any command given to her. She sets out on a quest to break the curse and regain her freedom. Along the way, she encounters ogres, giants, and fairies. Her journey is filled with humor, adventure, and self-discovery. With the help of friends and her own determination, Ella strives to overcome her curse. This whimsical retelling of Cinderella is delightful and inspiring.
Why You’ll Love It:
The clever twist on the classic tale and Ella’s spirited journey make this a delightful read. (Based on Cinderella)
10. “To Kill a Kingdom” by Alexandra Christo
Synopsis:
Lira, a deadly siren princess, is transformed into a human as punishment. She must steal the heart of Prince Elian, a notorious siren hunter. As their paths collide, they embark on a journey filled with danger and deception. Lira and Elian’s relationship evolves from enemies to allies. This retelling of The Little Mermaid is dark and enchanting. Together, they face betrayal and uncover secrets that could change their worlds.
Why You’ll Love It:
The fierce characters and intense action create an unforgettable adventure. (Based on The Little Mermaid)
11. “Spinning Silver” by Naomi Novik
Synopsis:
Miryem, the daughter of a moneylender, takes over her father’s business and turns silver into gold. Her talent catches the attention of the Staryk king, who demands her services. She is drawn into a world of magic and danger. As she navigates this new world, she forms unexpected alliances. Miryem must use her wits and courage to survive and protect her loved ones. This retelling of Rumpelstiltskin is rich with folklore and strong characters.
Why You’ll Love It:
Naomi Novik’s complex plot and vivid world-building create a deeply immersive tale. (Based on Rumpelstiltskin)
12. “The Shadow Queen” by C.J. Redwine
Synopsis:
Lorelai, the crown princess and fugitive, is determined to overthrow the wicked queen who killed her father. With the help of a dragon-shifter prince, she embarks on a dangerous mission. They must confront powerful enemies and unravel dark secrets. Lorelai’s magic and determination are her greatest weapons. This retelling of Snow White is filled with action, romance, and intrigue. Lorelai’s journey is one of bravery and resilience.
Why You’ll Love It:
The strong, determined heroine and high-stakes plot make this a captivating read. (Based on Snow White)
13. “The Sleeper and the Spindle” by Neil Gaiman
Synopsis:
In this beautifully illustrated novella, a queen sets out to rescue a sleeping princess. She encounters a world filled with magic and danger. The queen’s journey is one of courage and discovery. As she uncovers the truth behind the curse, she must make a difficult choice. This retelling blends elements of Sleeping Beauty and Snow White into a dark and enchanting fairy tale. The story is filled with twists and surprises.
Why You’ll Love It:
Neil Gaiman’s masterful storytelling and Chris Riddell’s stunning illustrations create a unique story among fairy tale books. (Based on Sleeping Beauty and Snow White)
14. “A Curse So Dark and Lonely” by Brigid Kemmerer
Synopsis:
Prince Rhen is cursed to relive the autumn of his eighteenth year until he can find someone to love him. Meanwhile, Harper, a girl from modern-day Washington, D.C., is struggling with her own life challenges. When she is abducted to the cursed land of Emberfall, she finds herself in a world of magic and danger. Harper, despite her cerebral palsy, is determined to fight back and break the curse. As she spends more time with Rhen, she begins to see the man behind the beastly facade. Together, they face enemies and build an unexpected bond that could be the key to saving Emberfall. Will Harper’s courage and compassion be enough to end the curse?
Why You’ll Love It:
This fairy tale book features a strong, relatable heroine and a prince who evolves beyond his curse. (Based on Beauty and the Beast)
15. “The Goose Girl” by Shannon Hale
Synopsis:
Princess Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, has a special bond with animals. When her crown is stolen, she must reclaim it. Disguised as a goose girl, she finds allies and uncovers hidden strengths. Her journey is filled with danger, magic, and self-discovery. This retelling of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale is enchanting and beautifully written. Ani’s courage and determination shine through.
Why You’ll Love It:
The lyrical prose and strong character development create a timeless fairy tale. (Based on The Goose Girl)
Reimagine the Magic with These Fairy Tale Books
These fairy tale books will give you a fresh and imaginative take on classic stories, blending magic, love, and adventure. Whether you’re revisiting beloved fairy tales or discovering new ones, these books are perfect for getting lost in fantastical worlds. With their unique twists and compelling characters, each novel is a spellbinding experience that will keep you enchanted from beginning to end. Flip a page into these magical stories and let the adventures begin! Happy reading! 🏰💕
