Readers who enjoy feminist twists on classic tales, LGBTQ+ representation, and strong heroines will love Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron. Fans of The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas will find this book compelling and imaginative.

Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron has been praised for its fresh, LGBTQ+ inclusive take on a classic fairy tale. Reviewers appreciate the strong feminist message and the diverse representation. However, some critics feel that the pacing is uneven and that character development at times lacks depth. Overall, it is considered a bold and inventive reimagining.

In Kalynn Bayron's Cinderella Is Dead, sixteen-year-old Sophia Grimmins, who is a lesbian, lives in the kingdom of Mersailles where young women must attend an annual ball to be chosen by suitors or face severe consequences. Sophia escapes the ball, meeting Constance, the last descendant of Cinderella. Together, they uncover the truth behind the original fairy tale and work to overthrow the oppressive monarchy. This novel includes anti-gay bias, misogyny, and physical abuse.

Mysterious / Dark / Romantic / Adventurous / Inspirational

- Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron reimagines the classic fairy tale with a unique twist, set 200 years after Cinderella found her prince, blending elements of fantasy with social commentary.
- The book emphasizes themes of empowerment and challenging societal norms, which resonate with contemporary discussions about gender and identity.
- Kalynn Bayron's debut novel received acclaim for its diverse representation, including a strong LGBTQ+ presence, which was praised for bringing inclusivity to the fantasy genre.

**Sophia Grimmins**  
A determined 16-year-old protagonist and first-person narrator who challenges the oppressive society in which she lives, confronting the mandates that control women's lives and their choices.

**Mr. and Mrs. Grimmins**  
Sophia's parents who strive to protect her within the constraints of a repressive society, grappling with the tension between safety and personal freedom while supporting her as best as they can.

**Erin**  
Sophia's best friend and romantic interest, who struggles between her feelings for Sophia and the societal pressures to conform, illustrating the internal conflict and consequences of living under strict societal rules.

**Liv**  
Sophia's 17-year-old friend who, having attended the annual ball without being chosen, hopes to find favor with a fairy godmother, reflecting the desperation and faith some have in the fairy tale lore that governs their society.

**Luke**  
A 20-year-old ally to Sophia, whose shared experiences and desire for liberation align him with her cause, demonstrating his commitment to fighting for greater freedom in an oppressive world.

**King Manford/Prince Charming**  
The tyrannical ruler of Mersailles, whose 200-year-long reign is marked by oppressive decrees aimed at controlling the kingdom, with roots in the twisted legacy of Prince Charming from Cinderella's tale.

**Morris and Édouard**  
Brothers from a wealthy and influential family who embody the cruel societal norms and attitudes that prevail in Mersailles, upholding the oppressive regime through their actions.

**Constance**  
Sophia's romantic interest and a bold ally, who has deep roots in Cinderella's true legacy, playing a critical role in challenging the oppressive societal norms with her unique perspective.

**Amina**  
A complex character who serves as the original fairy godmother, with a morally ambiguous past that intertwines with the rise of Prince Charming's power, offering assistance despite her history.

**Cinderella**  
The legendary figure whose story is central to the novel, representing a distorted tale used to control society, but whose true narrative and resistance against oppression are gradually uncovered.

Kalynn Bayron

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