I loved this book. I thought it was the perfect tale of second chance love and swoon=worthy romance. Both heroes were very loveable, and I loved how things beautifully wrapped-up at the end. The title does this book justice, everyone should get a second shot at true love. I especially loved how humorous this story was, almost like a short version of a pitoresque novel, full of wit and action. Totally recommend to anyone that loves fairytales.

Once More Upon a Time begins with the fairy tale of The Twelve Dancing Princesses where one princess marries the suitor at the end. However, this story features one of the other eleven princesses, Imelda. There is another tale of three princes who must defeat three dragons in order to inherit the kingdom. This story features the middle brother, Ambrose, who did not win his father’s kingdom. The story takes Imelda and Ambrose as they marry and their own tale is woven with its own fairy tale complete with a curse, a poisoned tomato, an enchanted honey badger, and a magical talking cloak.

The story has a fairy tale set-up, as there is a central narrator, who reveals their identity as the story moves forward. The narrator tells the story to the reader and stops in sections where the story slows down to give details where Ambrose and Imelda’s perspectives are told. Through this type of story telling, it was very fitting for a classic fairy tale and I could picture it playing out like a movie in my mind. Ambrose and Imelda fall in love at first sight. They are only married for a day before they are cursed to lose their love for each other, which lasts for a year before the story’s adventure begins. They are sent on a final quest where they must retrieve a potion for a witch, which is where Ambrose and Imelda are forced to become reacquainted with each other along the way.

The two characters were a delight as they had great chemistry and it was interesting to see them discover more about the other. Through their journey, each character’s original tale is integrated into their character development. Imelda’s relationship with shoes based on her past and I love how it is weaved into her part of the story and how Ambrose works to understand this part of her. In turn, Ambrose has a complex relationship with the concept of love among other issues he is dealing with from his past. These were all well integrated into his story and Imelda was a great partner to try to understand him. Although I was not quite on board with either character in the beginning, they both grew on me and I greatly enjoyed them by the end.

Overall, this is a short and sweet fairy tale with lots of witty humor. Since it is a shorter story, of course, I wish it were longer. I would love if it were expanded into a full-length novel, as it would be nice to explore both characters in more depth. There is a lot in this novel that was enjoyable and I just wanted more! Since it does utilize the twelve dancing princesses story, there could be room for expansion with ten sisters still remaining to have their story told if the author wanted to create a story for each. If it contained the same joy and great characters, easily I would read all of them!

**I give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca, for the opportunity to read this enjoyable novel. The opinions expressed are completely my own.**

Ok this was quite a short read but certainly very entertaining. Essentially we have a fairy tale that somehow lost its happy ending. No wicked fairies involved just an innocent looking fruit ! The characters grow as the story progresses and its always fun, witty, perhaps a little tongue in cheek but an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

This is the best I've read on months. Seriously, I'm just so enormously happy to had the chance to read this book. I loved it!!! The must read for sure.
So this story is a fairytale where the princess and the prince fell in love and have a happy end. But! It's no so simple.
Imelda, the princess, is curses, so Ambrose, the prince, save her making a deal with a witch. They will forget about their love and will separate after spending 101 days together.on the last day, the same witch, that has curses them, appears with a deal: she need a potion from a queen witch. If they get it, she will give them what they want. Freedom for Imelda, and power for Ambrose. The adventure begins, and the two of them will discover what truly they want.
How can I explain this book for you. I've just finished it and I'm so so happy. First of all, it's tremendously funny. You will laugh at each page. I loved so much this couple. Imelda is awesome. She's so wild and extraordinary. And Ambrose is the perfect match for her. And the most important character is a cloak, that thinks he's a horse. Loved it🤣.
The story is short but has all the things that we love in a fairytale, plus it's finally tell us the true story about love between a princess and a prince in a fairytale. Its written so well and it paced so good. I've enjoyed enormously this book, and recommend it to everyone.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher to provide me with this beauty.

I absolutely enjoy Once More Upon Time by Roshani Chokshi. It is a fun, easy and quick read, exactly what I wanted at the moment since I was on a reading slump for a while. It also reminds me a lot of my childhood memories, reading my favorite fairy tales.

I’ve been a fan of Roshani Chokshi since I first read The Star-Touched Queen, so anytime I see she has something new coming out, I try to get my hands on a preview copy (or do my best to get myself a copy as soon after it’s released as possible). Once More Upon a Time is unique because it has already been released – in fact, it was released over a year ago ¬– but only as an audio novella from Audible. Now, I have a difficult time with audio books (I tend to zone out while listening to narrated stories and do much better with podcasts that are based in discussion or analysis). Now, Once More Upon a Time is being released in print and ebook versions so as far as format goes, it’s a bit more to my taste. Of course, the fact that it plays with fairy tales is also right in my wheelhouse of interests, and – simple and short though this novella may be – it proves just as entertaining and fun as I’d hoped.

Imelda and Ambrose are both overlooked characters from other fairy tales. Imelda is one of the twelve princesses who spent her nights dancing through her shoes in a fairy realm and Ambrose was the middle prince whose father set out tasks to help him choose his successor to the throne and Ambrose neither fulfilled them in the way his father preferred nor broke the curse of a princess earning him a different throne. But when they meet and fall in love, it looks like they might just get their own fairy tale ending… until tragedy strikes and the only way to avoid it is to let a witch rob them of their love for each other. Turns out, their fairy tale is actually just beginning.

It’s entirely unsurprising to anyone who knows me (or has read my reviews of other fairy tales with twists) but my favorite element of this story was the allusions to other well-known fairy tales (and how they are subverted). First, the narrator’s interjections throughout have the ideal amount of tongue-in-cheekiness to them to delight me. The fact that Imelda and Ambrose are basically side-characters from other fairy tales gives the whole thing a bit of a Shrek feel as well. But even as the tale alludes to and subverts well-established fairy tales, it doesn’t undermine the psychology of the central characters themselves. Imelda’s experiences with her father and the enchanted shoes give her some major (and understandable) trust issues and she guards her freedom and autonomy carefully. Ambrose’s distrust and desire for independence comes from an equally tragic, family-generated place though it expresses itself in its own ways.

Though the story’s destination is pretty obvious and the minor adventures along the way are quickly and predictably resolved, it doesn’t make them any less entertaining. While I would probably have had a difficult time with the audio book, I can see exactly why and how this tale lends itself to that format. And reading this has given me the perfect little taste of Roshani Chokshi’s writing that will hold me over till the final installment of her Gilded Wolves trilogy is released later this month.

This was so sweet! I don't even think it's 150 pages so it's a very short read but so much fun. Obviously you can't expect the best world building or character development but I was surprised by how much there was in this story. Both Imelda and Ambrose were lovable and their love story was too. They are on a quest to find a potion after a year and a day of having their love stolen from them and along the way they get to relearn each other which made for a really happy, enjoyable story. I also loved our talking "horse" and all the extravagant fairy tale references, talking badgers, and other creative elements. The writing is custom Roshani Chokshi, which is to say unbelievably beautiful, and I would highly recommend this one if you like quick fairy tale-inspired romances!

This is a short book, easily read in one sitting if you're an avid reader. The writing is different from Chokshi's other work, much lighter and breezy. It actually reminds me a little of the Fairyland series by Catherynne M. Valente in terms of how it's written. I also think that it would make a very fun movie that I would actually go see in theaters, and I rarely consent to see things in theaters. That being said, I didn't like it as much as the other things I've read by this author. The style works for me, and so does the love story, I mostly just wanted more of it. Another 100 pages easily could have been added into this book, a little more adventure, and it would probably have been a home run for me. I liked Imelda and Ambrose together, the way they interacted, and I believe that they loved each other. It's because I enjoyed them so much that I wanted more.

If you're looking for something fun with a sweet romance that you can breeze through in an afternoon, I would recommend this book. I'd love to see Chokshi expand on this universe, maybe explore some of the siblings of Imelda and Ambrose; I would definitely read that.

When I was a kid I was obsessed with fairy tales - and did a complete deep dive into the obscure and original ones. 12 Dancing princesses was one of my favorite stories, and I really enjoyed this retelling of it. The world itself is deceptively simple, and I loved the magical creatures and enchantments sprinkled throughout. I think my only criticism is that it was short (maybe I missed if it's a novella?) because I thought there was so much potential to go more deeply into the world and the characters.

The banter itself is what makes this fun - it's cute, sharp, and just to the right of a fairytale romance. I really love Chokshi's other books, but as fun as this was I didn't quite love it.

ARC received from NetGalley for a review.

"Hazel eyes that reminded him of a lioness"

e-ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

4 stars for Once More Upon a Time by Roshani Chokshi. This retelling of the 12 dancing princesses highlights the adventure Queen Ismelda and King Ambrose embark upon to retrieve a magical potion for a witch.

The main characters Ismelda and Ambrose and I enjoyed the dual POV. The side characters we meet along the way (both good and bad) make for some interesting scenes and dialogue. The world is simple to fall into as it is not complex but has all the key components of imagery to transport your self there! Magical creatures and enchanted things like a horse cloak, a honey badger, flying shoes, and even enchanted roads were so intriguing!

The book is technically more Novella style and can be easily read quickly. I would recommend this to someone who is looking for a really easy fun read with an interesting (but simple) fantasy component. Bonus points if you are looking for some fun banter between the couple. You can easily read this in a sitting and come out feeling happy. The perfect book if you are looking for a quick pick me up!

Overall I really enjoyed this read. It highlights the importance of love and how love it can actually be the most freeing thing of all. <3

But at least she tried... and wasn't that the truest sense of bravery? To open one's eye in the dark and step forward anyway?

I am a fan of retellings, but Once More Upon a Time isn't a retelling. It's the after in Happily Ever After. Imelda and Ambrose fall in love and marry. Given they're in love they become king and queen of Love's Keep. Only for Ambrose to give up his love to save Imelda. The misadventures that follow after their year and a day in Love's Keep are just plan ridiculous and make for a fun read.

I enjoyed the idea of seeing life beyond the curtain that closes a fairy tale. Watching Ambrose and Imelda learn about the other makes for a satisfying story that flips fairy tale narratives on their heads.

Add in a cloak that was once a horse and a tricksy honey badger and there's a great, hilarious, and fast read.

So I requested this book solely on author alone. I love her books. So i was basically going in blind on this book. The 12 Dancing Princesses is one of my absolute favorite fairy tales! This spin ... or really a continuation of .. was everything I could have asked for. Plus the narration was so comical. The characters were well developed even with such a short story.

Imelda and Ambrose stole my heart and I fell in love with their story as small as it was. I would love to see more stories like this from Chokshi.

I highly recommend anything by Roshani Chokshi because her writing is AMAZING!

3.5, rounding up to 4 because I love Roshani Chokshi!

I actually really enjoyed the humour in this book, the honey badger part did indeed make me giggle lol. There were also a lot of themes of empowerment and finding freedom in love which I really enjoyed!

And as always I love Roshani Chokshi's writing style. I find novellas are often quite forgettable so I'll be interested to see if this one sticks with me but I did enjoy my time reading it!

A cute, somewhat tongue-in-cheek take on a fairytale romance, Once More Upon a Time is perfect if you need something light and bite-sized. I read this after a heavier book and it was a perfect palate cleanser for my reading. It follows a king and queen who have lost their love because of a witch and are doomed to leave their castle after a year and a day. Instead, they go on a journey to gain what each of them most want and along the way fall in love again. It's not reinventing the wheel, but it's entertaining with some funny moments.

2.5⭐ rounded up.
Once More Upon a Time is a retelling of Twelve Dancing Princesses, except it's about the other sister.
Imelda, the other sister, and Ambrose were married, but they fell out of love a day later. They lived together for a year and a day before they have to go separate ways. And that's where the story begins; they embark on a journey to retrieve a potion.

It's actually been a week or so after I finished the book, and I haven't yet decided on the rating and what I feel about the book. Because frankly, I don't feel anything at all. I love Roshani Chokshi's other books, so I had high expectations. Maybe this book isn't for me. It's too short, and the characters are less entertaining than her other characters.

The only thing that I love about this book is that in the end, Imelda and Ambrose made peace with their traumas to made peace with their present. And that's something that I can learn from.

This was a short read but I loved every second of it! The author has such an incredible way with words and the storytelling genuinely reminded me of the fairytales younger me fell in love with as a child! Thank you for reintroducing a little bit of magic back into my life 🤍

This was a really cute read. I wasn’t totally invested with the characters and I found it to be a little predictable, but I still enjoy this and would recommend giving it a shot if you enjoy this author.

Thankyou for providing me with this arc in exchange for an honest review!

Boy Oh Boy!! This was exactly what I needed right now. My hectic routine and daily problems had sucked all the magic out of my life, to read this book was to dive back into magic and remember that life is still enchanting if only you pay attention.
I cannot tell you how many times I laughed out loud while reading this book, the cloak sorry the dignified steed was hilarious. Ambrose was charming and very likeable, he was the kind of character you just wanted to hug. Imelda was fierce and I liked her energy, she had such a strong and wild personality, I honestly considered taking up her wit, bravery, fierceness and strength and incorporating it into my personality.
The book reads like a fairytale, I guess thats a given because of the title. But trust me its the kind of tale that warms your heart. A book that's perfect if you're looking for a fun, romantic lighthearted read that'll teleport you back to your childhood.
I didn't find any flaw in this novella, I loved every single minute of reading it. It was a fairytale but it wasn't ludicrous with songs sung by princesses every 5 minutes or who needed rescuing by a true love's kiss. The characters were raw and original with real relatable problems.
And did I mention how badass Imelda was, thankyou for not giving us anoyher damsel in distress princess who needed rescuing. I loved that she was distressed, she was vulnerable but she was her own saviour.
I know this review has gotten pretty long so I am going to wrap this up by saying please read this feel good novel with diverse and funny characters that will leave you with butterflies in your stomach and a grin long after you've FINISHED the book

Full of emotion and imagination, Once More Upon a Time is a lot of story in a little package! Chokshi is a master of multilayered fantasy, and this tale is no exception.. I was captivated by Ambrose and Imelda as they fought for their little slice of happiness against magical and entertaining circumstances, not to mention a nefarious witch. Great crossover potential for adults and teens.

A little under baked; but hey I like eating cookie dough out of the bowl.
It was a whimsical and sweet, a great afternoon read. While I wish there was a bit more, I found myself smiling the whole time.
Overall fun but lacking.