Fairest of All (Villains #1)

By: Serena Valentino

4/5 Mirrors

The evil Queen/stepmother in Snow White is classic. She hates her beautiful step-daughter and will do anything to remain fairest of all. However, what if the story had a different point of view? Would the Queen really be as evil as once portrayed? With Fairest of All, you get to decide your true feelings for the classic story.

The Queen wasn't always evil. She loved Snow like one of her own children. Reeling from a traumatic childhood, the Queen will do anything to protect Snow from the same injustices she once suffered. When the King goes off to war, the Queen is more determined than ever to protect Snow. Luckily, her servant whom she loves like a sister - Verona - is there to help every step of the way.

Things could not be better... until the King's three cousins visit: Martha, Lucinda, and Ruby. There is something sinister about these three. They speak in riddles and say the most ghastly rhymes. The Queen banishes them, but not before the sisters leave their mark. They leave a mirror that shows much more than reflections.

To avoid spoiling this beautiful story, I will end my summary here. I must say, I've read mixed reviews about the Villains series, but I ultimately decided to read it after seeing the beautiful covers. I wanted those books in my library. So, on a tiny book shopping spree (one of many in quarantine), I bought the entire series. Fairest of All was better than I thought it would be!

Valentino's writing style matches that of old fairytales. I think this would make it difficult for a child to read on his/her own, but sets the tone for a wonderful bedtime story. I must admit, I'm a sucker for stories that humanize evil. I think it's a great way to show children that those who hurt are hurting. The Queen is no different. Of course, I did not enjoy who she became at the end, but I was able to empathize more.

I think Valentino used this character to also address two very important issues: vanity and abuse. Children reading this story might feel inclined to talk about these issues, and that is so incredibly important. I absolutely adored this book. I had no idea how the Queen would ever be justified, but Valentino did a fantastic job!