Enchanted by the Darkness: A Review of Cinder (The GriMM Tales) by D.N. Bryn
As an avid fan of fairy tale retellings, I was drawn to Cinder (The GriMM Tales) by D.N. Bryn for its intriguing promise of a darker, queerer version of the classic Cinderella story. The combination of trans representation, a vigilante protagonist, and the vivid magic of pigeons had me curious from the start. It didn’t take long for me to lose myself in this fantastical reimagination, and I’m excited to share my journey with you.
The heart of Cinder beats through its vibrant characters and richly woven themes. Cin, our courageous lead, is an embodiment of resilience and complexity; he’s not just a victim but a radical force fighting against the cruel dynamics of his family and society. The quote, “I wish for my body to feel like a home, instead of a house,” hits a poignant note, encapsulating the struggle for identity and acceptance that many can relate to. His evolution into a vigilante gives rise to thrilling moments that keep your heart racing, turning tragedy into triumph.
On the other hand, Lorenz—the playboy prince with an aromantic twist—seems to challenge the very fabric of fairy tale romance. Initially frustrating, his character arc reveals layers that deepen your understanding, making the moments of camaraderie between him and Cin even richer. By the end, I appreciated his journey, feeling like I had uncovered another dimension of narrative depth that invites readers to think critically about relationships and identity.
The writing itself is a delightful swirl of prose that balances tension with lyrical beauty. D.N. Bryn’s knack for blending the classic with the contemporary is masterfully handled; this story manages to be both familiar yet fresh. While the pacing veered into a slower territory in the middle, I found that the buildup was necessary for the emotional payoff to emerge, particularly during the gripping final scenes. The appearance of beloved characters from other tales kept the world alive, seamlessly interlinking these narratives in a way that felt organic rather than forced.
One highlight that had me gasping was the gory fitting of the shoe scene—a clever homage to the original but twisted into something far darker and unsettling. Scenes like these exemplify Bryn’s sophisticated approach, demonstrating an understanding of fairy tales’ primal roots and reshaping them into narratives for a modern audience.
Cinder isn’t just a story; it’s a tapestry of experiences, emotions, and identities. It engages with complex family dynamics while providing a generous dose of magic, adventure, and, yes, even love—albeit in atypical forms. Readers looking for unapologetic queer representation and character-driven journeys will find themselves at home in this enchanting narrative.
For anyone who loves fairy tales turned on their head, or is searching for stories that deal with identity and kinship, I wholeheartedly recommend Cinder. It’s a raw, emotional ride with themes that resonate deeply and characters that will stick with you long after you turn the last page. I can’t wait to see where D.N. Bryn takes us next in this captivating series!
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