Review of Fairy Tales That Bite Back: The Complete Series
As a lifelong fan of fairy tales, I was immediately drawn to Fairy Tales That Bite Back: The Complete Series by Melissa A. Dwyer. The idea of a dark twist on beloved classics like Snow White, Alice in Wonderland, and The Little Mermaid was too enticing to pass up. After all, who doesn’t love a good revenge plot mixed with a little magic and mystery?
This trio of standalone retellings provides a refreshing plunge into worlds that are both familiar and thrillingly altered. Instead of gentility and wishes, we meet powerful, steely women ready to fight against a backdrop that feels both contemporary and rife with fantasy. In Forbidden, Snow White is reimagined as a succubus fleeing from the clutches of her wicked stepmother amidst New Orleans’ vibrant yet treacherous streets. Can you imagine? The narrative sets the stage for a darker exploration of ambition and survival, which captivated my attention from the outset.
Potheads, the tale of Alice, whisks us away to a secret underground maze in Florida where whimsy meets peril. The drug-fueled allure of this Wonderland certainly packs a punch—both in creativity and in emotional depth—leading us through a mesmerizing journey of surreal escapism. I found myself laughing, gasping, and wondering what might come next with every turn of the page. Dwyer’s writing here is both fluid and engaging, particularly conveying the absurdity that Alice encounters in such a bizarre world.
Then there’s Chasing Tail, a brilliant retelling of The Little Mermaid where our protagonist seeks vengeance rather than romance. The themes of grief and vengeance resonate deeply, especially as we follow this fiercely independent mermaid set against a hauntingly beautiful underwater landscape. I love how the passion is intricately woven into the narrative without overshadowing the haunting sense of loss. This darker portrayal truly differentiates it from traditional tales; it’s not just a swim for love but rather a dive into retribution.
Dwyer’s writing style shines through in its witty dialogue and the well-paced unfolding of events that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters feel richly developed, each with their own distinct voices and motivations. I often found myself reflecting on the growth they exhibited—strong, complex female leads who aren’t afraid to take their destiny into their own hands. Each story struck a chord with me personally, making it easy to empathize with their struggles and triumphs.
Quotes from enthusiastic readers affirm my sentiments, echoing themes of empowerment, creativity, and the thrill of unexpected twists—“an incredible set of fairytale retellings!” and “spicy and seriously twisted good fun!” These comments could not be more accurate; if you’re seeking a story that challenges the traditional hero/heroine narrative while delivering an exciting plot, you’re in for a treat.
If you’re a fan of cozy fairy tale retellings that also pack a punch, or if you have a penchant for strong character arcs coupled with dark humor, then Fairy Tales That Bite Back is calling your name. Dwyer’s unique touch redefines classic tales, making them relevant and riveting in today’s literary landscape. This box set certainly left an impression on me—a reminder that sometimes, the narratives we think we know can take us in compelling, unexpected directions. Happy reading!
You can find Fairy Tales That Bite Back: The Complete Series here >>