Full of Books

Cinder by Marissa Meyer Review

Title: Cinder

Author: Marissa Meyer

First published January 3, 2012

390 pages, Hardcover

ISBN: 9780312641894 (ISBN10: 0312641893)

Rating: 4.13

Overview

In a world where humans and robots coexist, a deadly virus threatens to wipe out the population. With the Lunar people from outer space waiting for their chance to strike, only one girl can save the day.

Meet Cinder, a gifted mechanic and cyborg who is constantly belittled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. As her life collides with that of the charming Prince Kai, Cinder finds herself in the center of an interplanetary battle and an irresistible attraction.

But as she faces the choice between loyalty and betrayal, duty and freedom, Cinder must uncover the truth about her past to secure her world’s future.

About the Author

My home is in Tacoma, Washington, where my family and I reside. My literary agent is Jill Grinberg.

To find out more about me and my upcoming literary works, please visit my website at http://www.marissameyer.com.

Editoral Review

In Marissa Meyer’s debut novel, Cinder, readers are transported to a dystopian world where cyborgs are second-class citizens and plague looms over the population. Meyer’s unique take on the classic fairy tale of Cinderella is stunningly inventive and captivating.

Set in futuristic New Beijing, the story centers around Cinder, a teenage cyborg who works as a mechanic, trying to survive as an outcast in society. When the charming Prince Kai comes to her for help in fixing a droid, Cinder’s life takes an unexpected turn, throwing her into the midst of politics and conspiracy.

Meyer’s writing style is engaging and heartfelt. The fast-paced plot, intricate world-building and a strong sense of character make this book a gripping page-turner.

Meyer puts a uniquely modern spin on the classic fairy tale, incorporating themes of power, identity, and prejudice against a backdrop of a technological world. Cinder is an empathetic and relatable character, whose journey of self-discovery takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster.

Her interactions with Prince Kai exemplify the novel’s exploration of power dynamics, where the Prince must balance his duty to his people with his own desires. Meyer’s world-building is particularly impressive, taking readers on a tour of New Beijing and its cultural history.

By weaving Chinese cultural elements into the story, the book becomes more than just a fairy tale retelling, but an acknowledgement of Chinese heritage. The one criticism of the book is its predictability.

It does follow the structure of Cinderella rather closely, albeit with its original twist. Meyer does offer a satisfying resolution to the story, but some readers may be looking for a more unconventional approach.

Overall, Cinder is a captivating and imaginative young adult book that is sure to enthrall fantasy, sci-fi, and fairy tale lovers alike. Marissa Meyer’s fresh take on the classic fairy tales is innovative and emotionally gripping.

It is a must-read for anyone seeking an immersive experience in a richly detailed and imaginative world. Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.

Popular Books