21 May Book Review: Prince of Glass and Midnight
Prince of Glass and Midnight
by Lindsey Miller
This is not your typical Cinderella story. August is the crown prince of his kingdom, and his father is intent on getting him married. But after the loss of his mother, love is the last thing on his mind. August just wants to focus on his work as a royal investigator, solving the various unsolvable problems around the kingdom of Charmant. As the time for August to take the throne draws ever closer, it seems that he can’t avoid the inevitable for much longer. As his fate seems all but decided, news of a magical curse plaguing a local village arrives—the same village where he spent his summers with his mother and friends long ago. With this news, he’s able to convince his father for a reprieve: one week to find the source of the curse that robs people of their memories before he takes the throne. But when a friendly face from the past exposes him to memories and feelings he’s long denied, will he be able to find the common thread in the mystery and face his own past before his time is up?
Although the Cinderella setting has been used many times before, the story being more about solving a mystery rather than finding true love, combined with the main perspective following the prince, gives the story a unique feel. The source of the curse is well maintained, even if readers may have an idea of how it spreads. The secondary characters don’t feel forced or unnecessary, even if some of the drama can seem out of place. A solid pick for those who enjoy fresh takes on classic tales.
-written by Alex B, Teen Central Library Assistant
