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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Michelle Austin

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a good 4 star read. This was a fun spin on Cinderella.
Veronica has to deal with bullies at school and she only has one friend. Things get interesting when a pop star is forced to attend her school Unexpectedly Veronica ends up helping Harry and the sparks fly from there. How will their story end?

Overall this was a good read. I enjoyed all of the characters. There are twists and turns that make you wonder just how things will turn out. If you’re looking for a modern day twist on Cinderella you will enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more from this series and author. 1-click and get started today.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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Ashes by MK Harkins – Review by Shavon Brown

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An original twist on the classic story of Cinderella. This story is told from the persepectives of Ashley Adams and Harry James.

Ashley Adams (Cinderella) her father is dead and leaves her a trust fund her Evil Stepmother has put in a few stipulations (i.e graduating on time, working at the funeral home etc.) She has two evil Stepsiters and lives in the smallest room. Her stepmother and stepsisters do their best to derail her and make her life a living hell, she does her best to keep her head down and do everything they say to get that trust fund and head to UCLA.

Harry James (Prince) also know as the prince of Pop a rock star who got into some trouble by setting is old high schools chemistry gets sent to Redmond High for a year as part of his and best friend Georges probation.

This story is a classic it opens with the fairy godmothers in panic mode because people in the world are not falling in love. They are needed but because of modern technology like YouTube and smartphones they are scared of being seen and the world finding out about them. Luckily someone has a plan…

I don’t want to spoil the book to much but this is a very fun original story spin on a classic that will give you all the feels. Mainly Joy and Sorrow as there is a major scare towards the end.

While we are given Harry and Ashley perspectives as well as the Fairy Godmothers I wish we could have gotten A Laura, George, Veronica and Maggie and Maura as well just to help round out the characters. That being said I was happy to see the sequel with George and Lilly with hopefully more of the original characters as well.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Christine Baranek

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ashes
By: MK Harkins
5*

I cannot tell you the last time I read a book that hooked me from the very first page. Ashes is one of those books. The books that you don’t want to put down from the very first word you read. I have to admit, I loved beyond belief the playlist that starts out this book. Before I could continue reading, I had to go play every one of the songs listed to get the vibe that the author was trying to portray. Then I picked the book back up and proceeded to read it in one setting. This book is a fairy tale complete with fairy godmothers, evil step mothers and wicked step sisters. It also has an orphan who has walled her heart off from anyone and everyone from getting close to her ever since her dad died. Oh and to top it off Ashley (our main character) is a social outcast because you know working and living in a funeral home will do that to you. But when a pop star crosses her path, she just might consider letting her guard down. Except, those step sisters I mentioned are planning on dating him and Ashley has been explicitly told to stay out of his way. But with a little help from a fairy godmother things just might be turning around for Ashley.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Tausha Treadway

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins. I loved this light hearted retelling of Cinderella. Its the story of Ashley Adams who is being tormented at school by bullies and at home by her step mom and step sisters. Enter Harry James the worlds most famous young pop star and things begin to look up. Harry is having to go to public school because he got in some trouble and his punishment is to attend a normal school. To get rid of bad press and save his popularity with the fans. Ashley intends to keep a low profile because she has given up on love and pretty much life so when Harry runs into her trying to get away from fans she is shocked she actually likes him. As Ashley and Harry spend more and more time together feelings grow deep and when its time for Harry to leave her school and go back to his real life will he break Ashley’s heart again? This is a great modern version of Cinderella.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by stephanie nicole

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Series Book 1)Ashes by MK Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This modern day fairy tale retelling really had it all. Based off of Cinderella this novel was so good I couldn’t put it down, however I am a sucker for fairy tale retellings. This book was full of great characters , magic, romance and so much more that I couldn’t help but give it five stars. This is my first novel by this author but based on the wonderful story, the beautiful cover and so much more I will definitely be looking for the next novel on this series.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins

Ashes is a wonderfully written Modern day retelling of the classic Cinderella with a few a twists and I absolutely loved reading it. This is a fast paced story that once you start reading its hard to put down until you’ve finished. The characters are relatable and fully developed and the storyline flowed. This is Ashley and Harry’s story. She just wants to finish school and hopefully find away to get away from her step-mother and step sisters and the funeral home they run. Harry is a pop star who has been ordered by the courts to finish out his senior year at public school. These have quite the chemistry but man the twists and turns and add in a few obstacles. Can these two find there happily ever after? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author and this series.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Kerry Carr

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great, modern retelling of the Cinderella story. It is a young adult romance with a sprinkle of fantasy and magic as well. The author does an amazing job of filling the story with so many twists and turns that it keeps the reader guessing every step of the way but the link to the Cinderella story of meeting “a prince” and leaving behind the “wicked stepmother and stepsisters” is all there.
Even though there is an element of a fairy tale in this book the story is also set and is relatable to modern day and modern life for young adults. From the romance between our 2 main characters to the group of girl Bullies that want to make Ashley’s life miserable at school just like she is at home.
This is a great story and one I really enjoyed.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book #1) by MK Harkins – Review by Angela Hayes

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

Ashes is the first instalment in the Modern-Day Fairy Tale series by M.K Harkins. It is a modern retelling of the beloved fairytale, Cinderella- with some drama, angst, fairy godmothers, magic, and of course, romance.
We meet Ashley, who has been put to work in her stepmother’s funeral parlour and has no time for love. But fate has other plans when pop music sensation Harry James turns up in her life. Will he turn out to be her prince charming? No spoilers here, you will really need to read the story to discover all the developments for yourself….
A cute retelling!
Happy reading…

Thank you, M.K. Harkins!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Callie LaMarche

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Series Book 1)Ashes by MK Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Callie LaMarche

Ashes is a Cinderella retelling of the classic fairytale story we all know. Ashley has been uprooted by her stepmother, Veronica, after the death of her father with her two step sisters. Veronica spent the inheritance on opening up a funeral home where Ashley takes care in preparing the dead bodies. Ashley has to survive one more year to graduate high school and get the money left behind by her dad to go to college.

Harry is a famous singer that burned down his previous high school with his best friend and is on probation at Ashley’s school. The first time they meet it turns out that they have more in common then they think.

I loved Ashley for being a strong character even with all the negative around her. She sticks up for herself and her friend. Harry is misunderstood and his past is not quite what it seems. The point of view switches between Ashley and Harry and helps to reveal their past. They have to deal with the controlling people in their lives while falling in love and trying to make their new relationship work.

@callielamarche

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Emily H

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ashley Adams is used to being tormented, between the bullies at school and Veronica her step-mother who is determined to drive her away. Ashley has one friend though at school and often puts herself in harms way to protect her. Lately though all the focus at school has been on Pop sensation and bad boy Harry James. Harry will be attending her public school as part of his court appointed plan to get him to straighten up. Ashley plans to keep under the radar, but that quickly changes when Harry ends up needing help hiding from overzealous fans. The connection is instant but what happens when real life creeps in and Harry is forced to chose between what he wants and what he is told to do?

This was a wonderful retelling of Cinderella. Had some twists that made the story a bit more intense. I enjoyed Ashley, for all the hits she has coming her way she keeps her head up and is focused on what she needs to do to get on with her life. Harry grows up a lot in this book, he is often misunderstood and of course always in the spotlight. Definitely would check out the next book in the series.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Rayne East

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Contemporary Cinderella with a twist
Absolutely loved this story. The characters are well developed the storyline so intriguing. Ashley and Harry come from different worlds and have their own family issues. With chemistry building between them they need to navigate carefully. A wonderful contemporary romance with a clean fairytale overtone for YA lovers.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Tandy Kibbler

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a modern day retelling of Cinderella. We basically learn this by reading the prologue of the story, and I thought “ugh, this is going to be a cheesy read”. Ashley is our high school Cinderella, and Henry is her charming prince. She’s so done with finding any true love in this world, and honestly, just wants to finish school and get away from that dreadful stepmother. Fortunately the fairies, one in particular, takes on Ashley’s case, to see that Ashley finds love.

This is a light-hearted read, that read quick for me, despite my initial impression. Ashley and Henry click and the stars have aligned. However, Ashley’s stepmother and stepsisters have other plans and plot their way to spoil the happiness. Without saying anything else, you will just have to read this to find out how it ends.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Jenni Bishop

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Series Book 1)Ashes by MK Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

Mmmmm where to start. I have mixed feelings about this book. MK has some wonderful stories out there especially The Immortal Series which I love.

Ashes is a fairy tale rock-star romance but with an interesting twist. This modern-day Cinderella is definitely intriguing and unique.

I like a retelling if it is done well. Unfortunately, whilst the premise of the story is a good one, I think that MK missed the mark in pulling it all together with the all the right elements, some actions and a few conversations and wording. That’s not to say I didn’t like the story because I did but with a few changes I think it could be a really good story.

Please give the book a read because these are just my thoughts and may not be your thoughts.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Darla Yocom

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED this book and if I could give it all the stars in the sky as pet of my review, I would.

It feels like the main character, Ashley Adams could easily be one of my closest bff’s. Her amazing qualities made her all the more endearing, as you get to know her throughout this incredible story. Besides being smart and sometimes underestimated, she has the most impeccable timing with her witty remarks.

Also when Harry James was first introduced, I immediately thought of comparing his status to Harry Styles’ celebrity status. Had something like this occurred in the real world with so many HS fans, I’m sure most would close-mindedly assume he should not associate himself with someone like Ash.

I was sold on this book the moment I read the synopsis that mentioned it contained a plot with fairies and magic. Little did I know that it would open up into a magical world with phenomenal imagery and content.

Also I loved the cover art! It gave off dark Cinderella vibes and I adored it.

I think teens and adults will enjoy this book like I did. I give this title 5 out of 5 stars.

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Series Book 1)Ashes by MK Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It was impossible not to love this book and be swept away into all this wonderful book had to offer, I always love a good book that does a good job of a fairy tale retelling, but this one blew my mind with how well done the writing was as well as the concept of the story! It was a magical read from start to finish!

Personally the aspect of this being a Cinderella re telling was magical as it could get! I love the modern take on this story, but I loved really how the author brought it to life. The characters were all sensational on their own path in who they were and whom they represented. The story had strong character development as well, and the characters were very connectable and each held their own. I was quite intrigued with things I did not expect as I read, the different things I really added to the story I felt. The writing was amazing, and the whole story was amazing, this was a wonderful and magical read! I simply loved it truly!

Such a good and wonderful read. I truly enjoyed the read and all the moments and feelings that went along with it, I highly recommend this must read book! Not one to be missed for any reason!

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins

❥ 👠 ♡ 🌹 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 🌹 ♡ 👠 ❥
Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins
Genre – YA, Romance, Fairy Tales
Page Count – 305
Cover Designer – Okay Creations

Fairy magic has no place in the modern world – or does it?

Ashley Adams doesn’t have time for haters. Already too busy dealing with dead bodies after her stepmother purchased a mortuary, she is ready to put the lid on her judgmental peers and finally bury her high school experience. Falling in love was the last thing on her mind.

Too bad fate had other plans when the local celebrity lands in her life.

Pop sensation Harry James is ordered by the court to attend public school for his senior year or face jail time. He can’t afford any bad press if he wants his summer tour to go ahead. But when he ducks into the mortuary where Ashley works to escape a mob of fans, he wonders if he is chasing the wrong dream.

High school mean girls, a controlling publicist, and scheming stepsisters want to keep Ashley away from Harry. After all, everyone knows the popstar doesn’t belong with the social outcast.

If only they had some fairy magic to help them find their happy ending…

Ashes is a fun and snarky standalone YA romance. If you like captivating characters, emotional twists and turns, Fairies and Cinderella retellings, then you’ll adore MK Harkins’ fast-paced tale.

Contains mild swearing and off-page violence.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins

MK has always been a voracious reader. After hitting a dry spell of reading material, she decided to write the kind of book she’d like to read. This resulted in the creation of her debut novel, Intentional. (Award for Best Sweet Romance – eFestival of Words- August 2014) Unintentional, Breaking Braydon, Taking Tiffany, The Reader, Famous by Default, soon followed. The follow-up to The Reader, The Jack, released August 2018.

Ashes, the first book in a new series of modern-day fairy tale retellings released in May 2022. (Five more books in the series to follow)

When she’s not writing novels, she likes to spend her free time traveling the world, splashing in mud puddles (She lives in Seattle, what can she say?), watching movies and reading (!) She LOVES to hear from her readers!

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Shelly Kittell

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderfully original retelling of Cinderella. I found the story to be relevant to today’s world. Ashley is a strong and brave young woman. She has a battle ahead and she takes nothing. I found the interactions with the characters, such as the M & M’s, Veronica, Laura, and Harry James were so relatable. The plot twist of solving the poisoning and attempted murders was a great twist. A fun read for any age. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author in this series.

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