Poison

First impressions are very good based upon the fabulous cover. It's really intriguing with the matte texture and the shiny holographic inserts. I really wasn't sure what to expect from this book especially when the line on the back cover says ‘... and now the true story of Snow White, told the way it always should have been...'

As I got into the book it was apparent the the author had decided on a very different tack to the Disney version! Sex scenes in Snow White! At first I couldn't get used to this, but it gradually began to make sense and integrated into the story. I really like the way that the Queen is portrayed as being only a few years older than Snow White as it adds another dimension to the jealousy aspect of the tale.

I'm not so sure about the inclusion of Aladdin & Hansel and Gretel. I just don't see what it adds. I also don't think the Prince's character was developed enough, but I suppose in a relatively short story like this, there isn't the luxury of enormous character development. I would have liked the story to be a little longer and to have developed the plotline at the end where the Prince takes Snow White back to his kingdom. What happened to her, how did his parents react and did the dwarves come to her rescue? So many unanswered questions!

Overall I enjoyed this twist on the original tale, however it did leave me a little frustrated and wanting more. I wonder if perhaps this is the intention?