Never Ever After by Sue Lynn Tan Narrator: Natalie Naudus
Published by Little Brown Young Readers on October 28, 2025
Genres: Fantasy
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I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Not all fairy tales end happily ever after in this Cinderella-inspired fantasy by the bestselling author of Daughter of the Moon Goddess—for fans of Renée Ahdieh, Tahereh Mafi, and Stephanie Garber.
Life in the Iron Mountains is harsh and unforgiving. After the death of her beloved uncle, Yining has survived by becoming a skilled thief and an even better liar. When she acquires an enchanted ring that holds the key to a brighter future, it is stolen by her step-aunt, and Yining must venture into the imperial heart of the kingdom to seize it back.
Amid the grandeur of the palace, Yining catches the eye of the ruthless and ambitious prince, who tempts her with a world she’s never imagined. But nothing is as it seems, for she’s soon trapped in a tangle of power, treachery, and greed—her only ally the cunning advisor from a rival court who keeps dangerous secrets of his own. To break free, she must unravel the mystery of her past and fight for a future that both frightens and calls to her.
This sweeping fantasy romance inspired by Cinderella and a Chinese fairy tale is the first in a breathtaking new series by the acclaimed author of Daughter of the Moon Goddess.
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Yining, our leading lady reads fortunes while her step-aunt steals from the clientele. Not an ideal situation to be in and wanting to get out of this life, Yining winds up at the palace for a ball. Her wish to get out of her step-aunt’s life has come true, but not in the way she expected it. She is forced to stay and while she does two very powerful men try to sway her to their side. Who will she choose to trust, and will she survive the palace?
Sue Lynn Tan, you did it again. I am addicted to your writing style and love that this is inspired by Cinderella. The characters were written magnificently. I loved all the tension; it was beautifully executed. The story is a tad predictable at times, but I enjoyed it and the characters as well as some twists and turns you will not see coming. Overall, if you are a fan of retellings with a dash of fantasy mixed in you should try this book.
The Narrator:
Natalie Naudus you did a fantastic job at the narration. I loved your voice for this story. I need to check out more of your narrations in the future.
