I thoroughly enjoyed reading Cinders Like Glass by Clarissa Kae. This Cinderella retelling brings together an independent, freedom-chasing heroine (Lady Ada) and a persistent, duty-bound duke (Edwin, Duke of Girard). Romance brews from the moment they meet, and the relational tension grows as family ties and political intrigue swirl around the pair. Their growing attachment brings romantic moments that kept me flipping pages late into the night.

Although the romance in Cinders Like Glass is lovely, I also enjoyed the mystery of le Tailleur (which carries into the next book), the dangerous moments, and the character development. For much of Lady Ada’s life, her stutter could trigger unexpectedly, causing awkwardness and shame. As Ada learns to push through this disability, her strength blossomed in every area of life. A fabulous journey to watch unfold.

Cinders Like Glass stands as the second novel in Clarissa Kae’s Victorian Retelling series. I recommended reading the series in order, but Cinders Like Glass can be read as a stand-alone. I confess, that I never did figure Nikolas out and I’m hoping his character will be fleshed out in a later novel.

Cinders Like Glass by Clarissa Kae is a clean fiction read. The romance goes no further than a few swoony kisses. There is occasional, mild English cursing, but not so much that it hindered my enjoyment of the story.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. ( )