I picked up Unenchanted because I wanted to try something different, and the title promised a mix of tragedy, adventure, and excitement. Chanda Hahn delivers just that, crafting a story that cleverly weaves classic fairy tales into a modern setting. Without giving too much away, the story draws heavily on a familiar fairy tale, subtly immersed into the main character’s journey in a creative and unexpected way.
The protagonist, Mina, starts off with a single best friend and attempts to blend in by fading into the background. However, she quickly discovers that she’s anything but ordinary—she’s a Grimm, part of a long line of guardians tasked with confronting fairy tale forces. This revelation sets her on a path filled with danger, discovery, and growth.
Another intense feeling of wrongness overcame her, and she felt compelled to move forward and interfere. She didn’t want to make a spectacle like Savannah, but she had to break whatever spell Claire had over Brody. Gathering her courage, Mina moved forward, unsure of exactly what she was going to do. The tingling sensation was almost overwhelming.
Mina is a relatable character, especially for readers who remember the awkwardness of high school. Her quiet, unsure nature, her crush on someone who feels out of reach, and her emotional resilience reminded me a lot of myself at that age. She’s strong-willed yet kind-hearted, qualities that guide her through difficult decisions as she tries to protect those she loves.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this story. The plot is imaginative, and I admire the creativity behind its world-building. At times, the pacing felt a bit abrupt—I occasionally found myself re-reading sections to fully grasp the emotional transitions—but it didn’t take away from the overall impact of the narrative. I would recommend this to fans of fairy tale retellings or YA fantasy. It’s a charming, inventive read that leaves you eager for the next book in the series.
Note: review originally published on August 3, 2016 | revised on May 8, 2025
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