Book review of How To Survive This Fairytale

by S. M. Hallow (Author)

Updated at: 28/02/2025

In S.M. Hallow's "How to Survive This Fairytale," Hansel, far from a heroic fairytale figure, finds himself stripped of everything in service to the Evil Queen. Haunted by a cruel, unyielding narrator, he's pushed to the brink of sanity. This isn't a story of True Love or triumphant heroism; it's a darkly comedic fight for survival against impossible odds. A twisted reimagining of classic fairy tales, the novel blends cozy horror elements with a queer-normative world and authentic portrayals of mental health and disability. For fans of T. Kingfisher and Tamsyn Muir, "How to Survive This Fairytale" offers a refreshing, empowering take on happily ever afters, challenging expectations and forging a new path toward self-discovery.

5 / 14 ratings

Review How To Survive This Fairytale

Wow, "How to Survive This Fairytale" completely blew me away! I went in cautiously – the second-person perspective sometimes feels gimmicky, and dark fairy tales can be a dime a dozen – but S.M. Hallow completely subverted my expectations. From the very first page, the unique narrative voice hooked me. It wasn't just a stylistic choice; it was integral to the story, making me feel intimately connected to Hansel's struggles and triumphs in a way I rarely experience with fiction. It felt like I was living the story alongside him, experiencing his pain, his confusion, and ultimately, his hard-won hope.

The world-building is masterful. Hallow creates this rich, believable fairytale setting with barely any exposition, letting the details unfold organically within the narrative. It’s a testament to the author's skill. The familiar fairytale tropes are twisted and reimagined in a way that feels both nostalgic and utterly fresh. I found myself constantly surprised by the direction the story took; every time I thought I had it figured out, Hallow would throw in a curveball that kept me guessing until the very end.

And the characters! Oh, the characters. Hansel is flawed, vulnerable, and utterly human, making him incredibly relatable despite the fantastical setting. His journey is a heartbreaking and empowering exploration of trauma, self-discovery, and the resilience of the human spirit. The supporting cast is just as compelling; familiar fairytale figures are presented with such depth and nuance that I completely forgot any preconceived notions I had about them. The relationships, especially the central romantic one, felt genuine and deeply affecting, devoid of the usual tropes and clichés. The love story is sweet, tender, and utterly believable, a heartwarming counterpoint to the darkness surrounding Hansel.

The book masterfully tackles themes of mental health and PTSD with sensitivity and honesty. It doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of trauma, but it manages to do so without ever feeling gratuitous or exploitative. Instead, the narrative emphasizes healing, self-acceptance, and the importance of finding your own path, even amidst overwhelming adversity. This isn't just a dark fairy tale; it's a powerful story about survival, resilience, and the enduring power of love.

The pacing is fantastic; I found myself completely engrossed, often reading far longer than I'd intended. There were moments that felt like a fever dream – intense, surreal, and emotionally charged – followed by quieter, more tender scenes that offered a much-needed respite. This emotional rollercoaster made for a truly unforgettable reading experience. "How to Survive This Fairytale" is a book that will stay with me long after I've finished reading it, a testament to the power of Hallow's storytelling. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy, compelling characters, and stories that will both break your heart and mend it again.

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