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All the Queen's Knaves #1
Vines and Vices
"Are you a wolf, Jesamyn? Or are you a lamb I should have slaughtered the moment you drew your first breath?"
Jes has spent nearly two decades with those words in her ear as her mother, Mav, taught her how to lie, steal, and con her way through life. She's ready to claim her independence, but Mav won't give up control of her greatest asset without a fight.
When Mav demands the unthinkable, Jes is at a loss as to how to beat the queen of criminals at her own game—that is, until a magical beanstalk, a charming prince, and an impossible land lost in the clouds come together to offer Jes the opportunity she's been dreaming of.
With her future, her heart, and her freedom on the line, Jes will need to do the impossible, risking her life to pull off a scam of gigantic proportions. The danger will be enormous, but so will the payoff...
If she can make it back alive.
Jes has spent nearly two decades with those words in her ear as her mother, Mav, taught her how to lie, steal, and con her way through life. She's ready to claim her independence, but Mav won't give up control of her greatest asset without a fight.
When Mav demands the unthinkable, Jes is at a loss as to how to beat the queen of criminals at her own game—that is, until a magical beanstalk, a charming prince, and an impossible land lost in the clouds come together to offer Jes the opportunity she's been dreaming of.
With her future, her heart, and her freedom on the line, Jes will need to do the impossible, risking her life to pull off a scam of gigantic proportions. The danger will be enormous, but so will the payoff...
If she can make it back alive.
442 pages, ebook
Published November 30, 2021
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September 1, 2024As I had loved her Bound trilogy so much, I had high hopes for this trilogy by Kate Sparkes, a retelling of sorts of Jack and the Beanstalk. Didn't work at all for me, just too much dishonesty and connivery for me to enjoy. DNF at 53%
She’d never done her best thinking on an empty stomach. (p. 105).
Better to make plans based on what she saw rather than what she thought she knew. (p. 137).
She’d never done her best thinking on an empty stomach. (p. 105).
Better to make plans based on what she saw rather than what she thought she knew. (p. 137).
April 23, 2022
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Vines and Vices is a fantastic retelling of the classic Jack and the Bean stalk myth. Absolutely creative in tying in pieces of the original myth and making it fresh and exciting.
Filled with action, adventure, betrayal and a smidge of romance, this book will keep you hooked from the first chapter. You immediately sympathize with Jes and want to see her escape from her horrible mother, Mave.
I only have this 4/5 stars is because I selfishly wanted the actual goose. Hints of romance in the book, making this an excellent suggestion for teens that do not want a romance driven novel. Definitely rated PG.
Vines and Vices is a fantastic retelling of the classic Jack and the Bean stalk myth. Absolutely creative in tying in pieces of the original myth and making it fresh and exciting.
Filled with action, adventure, betrayal and a smidge of romance, this book will keep you hooked from the first chapter. You immediately sympathize with Jes and want to see her escape from her horrible mother, Mave.
I only have this 4/5 stars is because I selfishly wanted the actual goose. Hints of romance in the book, making this an excellent suggestion for teens that do not want a romance driven novel. Definitely rated PG.
November 17, 2021
A captivating fairytale retelling that is unexpected and different to anything i have read. The characters are complex and flawed - although completely engaging - and the world building is spectacular. I loved it and have been recommending it everywhere. Loved it and recommend it for your next beach read!
September 3, 2024
Vines and vices has good bones. It's a fresh retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk and I liked the concept behind it. However, it had a slow start and I lost interest a few times because it felt like it was dragging on. The plot is complex and the characters are unique, but it wasn't really my cup of tea.
November 8, 2021
I received an ARC copy of Vines & Vices and from the moment I began reading it I did not want to put it down!! I was bragging about it to all of my friends and family. The world building was excellent! The development of the characters was phenomenal. The relationship between the sweet, innocent-ish prince and the jaded, con-woman was *chef’s kiss*! And the TWIST! Kate really got me with that twist! I never thought that fairytale retellings would be a genre that I would get into, but after reading this I cannot wait for Hawk and Gale! I may even have to go find some more in the meantime to satisfy my craving.
I have recently downloaded two more books by Kate Sparkes and I cannot wait to dive into them because if they are even half as good as this book, I will be thoroughly entertained! Kudos and thank you so much for allowing me to be a member of your ARC team!
I have recently downloaded two more books by Kate Sparkes and I cannot wait to dive into them because if they are even half as good as this book, I will be thoroughly entertained! Kudos and thank you so much for allowing me to be a member of your ARC team!
October 17, 2022
This is a strong start for this fantasy series, and I cannot wait to get my hands on more books! I adore books based on fairy tales and strong heroines, and Kate Sparkes delivers both. I would highly recommend this book and think I may be picking it up for as gifts for some of the other readers in my life this holiday season.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
November 28, 2023putting this aside at 40% for now... it's taken me ten days to get that far, and just feels to be going on forever. I liked the premise but the pacing just isn't working for me.
December 30, 2022
I’m conflicted.
This was a surprisingly good retelling (the best I’ve read actually) of jack and the beanstalk. The plot sometimes was a little too convenient and contrived and the mc was kinda dumb sometimes but we were constantly told she was smart. Her mother Mave was really one-dimensional and she could have been much more fleshed out—she was ignored a large chunk of the book but comes back nonsensically and I don’t know how I was supposed to care. The world-building was really weak too.
But then the last part of the book happened. And—I don’t know—I just couldn’t love it.
The book was kinda fun to read but I don’t know if I would recommend it to anyone. I definitely regret buying the physical copy. Let’s just say the author disappoints.
What could have easily been a 4-star read became a 3-star
This was a surprisingly good retelling (the best I’ve read actually) of jack and the beanstalk. The plot sometimes was a little too convenient and contrived and the mc was kinda dumb sometimes but we were constantly told she was smart. Her mother Mave was really one-dimensional and she could have been much more fleshed out—she was ignored a large chunk of the book but comes back nonsensically and I don’t know how I was supposed to care. The world-building was really weak too.
But then the last part of the book happened. And—I don’t know—I just couldn’t love it.
The book was kinda fun to read but I don’t know if I would recommend it to anyone. I definitely regret buying the physical copy. Let’s just say the author disappoints.
What could have easily been a 4-star read became a 3-star
January 18, 2023
This slow, steady, sweet and clean fairy tale retelling takes the basic bones of a story we all know (naive person, beans, giants, gold; you know the drill) and weaves it into a wonderful story all of it's own, packed full of legends and lore, characters and creativity, so much so you'd be forgiven for thinking it an original YA fantasy of its own. Add in a twist of romance and a dash of a wider world promised in books to come despite this being the perfect standalone... Oh yeah.
There ain't no goose, but this book was one hell of a golden egg to find in the indie published selection.
In it we follow Jes, daughter of conwoman extrodinaire Mav, who finds herself forever living in her mother's shadow. She dreams of being able to take the initiative and run her own cons, fleece the sheep who deserve (or can afford) to be taken in. Instead she faces a life of control and manipulation and... Forced fake marriage for moneytary gain?! Her future looks bleak until she runs across a prince as lost as she is, and an old woman with an unusual offer. Cue magical beanstalks, a land of giants both cruel and kind, unusual friendships, and a room that just might have enough treasure to pay Mav off for good. Jes needs a plan. Luckily she learned from the best, but can she overcome her own self doubt and lack of trust?
Formulaic to a T, but that's not a bad thing when the formula is brewed as expertly as it is here. It's part adventure, part heist, part coming of age tale that reads quite young but is sensible enough that an adult reader won't be put off by characters being young and dumb. They are a tad naive for their ages (our MCs are 19 and 23) but the youthful feel of the YA writing and fairy tale retelling material helps gloss it over. There's a gentle humor to interactions too that can make it seem more mature at times.
Jes' character arc hits every note perfectly as she discovers her own strengths, and errant prince Cas is a clever cinnamon roll of a guy for her to bounce off. Villains are suitably (and obviously) villainous without being too panto. Mav could be a bit of those "wHy aRe yOu so UNFAIR?!" YAish cliches, but I didn't hate her for that - I did wish we'd gotten a bit more of her hinted at back story that would have explained her motives, but it's not necessary to enjoy the story. Don't expect anything too deep; it is YA, and not an epic at heart. It does have some sweet side characters, from Lyra the songstress to Henry the grumpy inventor. The idea that any of these characters could come back later in this interconnected series has me smiling regardless of who.
The world it's set in is a wonderful blend of your usual magical fantasy land just on the cusp of a steampunk revolution; there are grimy factories and mills alongside enchanted mountains and court mages. We don't see a lot of it, but boy does it feel alive even when the characters are running off up beanstalks to discover treasure in a feudal fantasy land beyond the clouds.
The plot is slow to boil, with set pieces suspense scenes lifted straight out of blockbuster movies (you know that the characters will get out somehow, but you're edge of your seat ready for a jump scare) and plot points you know are coming but feel the satisfaction of reaching them. It's partly predictable, but only partly; I loved the journey between the plot points even if I knew what was coming, having read enough younger end of YA to know a trope when I see one. One person's predictable is another person's comfort read, and for me this fell firmly into the latter. Maybe it could move a little bit too slowly at times, but the time never felt wasted.
Nitpicks (because there must be some else you might think this review was a lie): the writing was for the most part wonderfully easy to read, but inconsistencies in word usage gave me pause (hopping between US English and international English spellings; sometimes it's "arse", others "ass"; an odd repeated use of the same word). You could also argue that for a story that reads quite young (complex, but still) it's rather a chonky page length.
A great closed ending with plenty of potential still left in the world, this one was a massive and welcome surprise. You like your YA sweet and clean with magic, humor and adventure? Get this, read, this, and soak in those comfort read vibes. It has me ready for more magical adventure in a land where you never know who could be a wolf in sheep's clothing.
There ain't no goose, but this book was one hell of a golden egg to find in the indie published selection.
In it we follow Jes, daughter of conwoman extrodinaire Mav, who finds herself forever living in her mother's shadow. She dreams of being able to take the initiative and run her own cons, fleece the sheep who deserve (or can afford) to be taken in. Instead she faces a life of control and manipulation and... Forced fake marriage for moneytary gain?! Her future looks bleak until she runs across a prince as lost as she is, and an old woman with an unusual offer. Cue magical beanstalks, a land of giants both cruel and kind, unusual friendships, and a room that just might have enough treasure to pay Mav off for good. Jes needs a plan. Luckily she learned from the best, but can she overcome her own self doubt and lack of trust?
Formulaic to a T, but that's not a bad thing when the formula is brewed as expertly as it is here. It's part adventure, part heist, part coming of age tale that reads quite young but is sensible enough that an adult reader won't be put off by characters being young and dumb. They are a tad naive for their ages (our MCs are 19 and 23) but the youthful feel of the YA writing and fairy tale retelling material helps gloss it over. There's a gentle humor to interactions too that can make it seem more mature at times.
Jes' character arc hits every note perfectly as she discovers her own strengths, and errant prince Cas is a clever cinnamon roll of a guy for her to bounce off. Villains are suitably (and obviously) villainous without being too panto. Mav could be a bit of those "wHy aRe yOu so UNFAIR?!" YAish cliches, but I didn't hate her for that - I did wish we'd gotten a bit more of her hinted at back story that would have explained her motives, but it's not necessary to enjoy the story. Don't expect anything too deep; it is YA, and not an epic at heart. It does have some sweet side characters, from Lyra the songstress to Henry the grumpy inventor. The idea that any of these characters could come back later in this interconnected series has me smiling regardless of who.
The world it's set in is a wonderful blend of your usual magical fantasy land just on the cusp of a steampunk revolution; there are grimy factories and mills alongside enchanted mountains and court mages. We don't see a lot of it, but boy does it feel alive even when the characters are running off up beanstalks to discover treasure in a feudal fantasy land beyond the clouds.
The plot is slow to boil, with set pieces suspense scenes lifted straight out of blockbuster movies (you know that the characters will get out somehow, but you're edge of your seat ready for a jump scare) and plot points you know are coming but feel the satisfaction of reaching them. It's partly predictable, but only partly; I loved the journey between the plot points even if I knew what was coming, having read enough younger end of YA to know a trope when I see one. One person's predictable is another person's comfort read, and for me this fell firmly into the latter. Maybe it could move a little bit too slowly at times, but the time never felt wasted.
Nitpicks (because there must be some else you might think this review was a lie): the writing was for the most part wonderfully easy to read, but inconsistencies in word usage gave me pause (hopping between US English and international English spellings; sometimes it's "arse", others "ass"; an odd repeated use of the same word). You could also argue that for a story that reads quite young (complex, but still) it's rather a chonky page length.
A great closed ending with plenty of potential still left in the world, this one was a massive and welcome surprise. You like your YA sweet and clean with magic, humor and adventure? Get this, read, this, and soak in those comfort read vibes. It has me ready for more magical adventure in a land where you never know who could be a wolf in sheep's clothing.
August 28, 2024
It’s a genderbent Jack and the Beanstalk variation, but make it a heist. Basically, it’s amazing.
Jes has lived her entire life as a swindler, a conwoman preying on those foolish enough to trust a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Under her mother’s instruction, Jes has become incredibly skilled, though not yet trusted enough to hunt on her own. As Jes and her mother kick off their newest con, an opportunity to get out from under Mav’s thumb presents itself, and Jes sets her target on much larger prey.
My first thought after starting the book was, “oh no. I love it.” Seriously, fairytale retellings, reimaginings, and inspired variations are probably my favorite type of story. Anything that takes one of those old stories and brings a fresh spin to it is going to win a lot of points with me. Taking something like ‘Jack and the Beanstalk,’ a criminally underrepresented tale, and making it into something so wildly different and yet so clearly the same? Immediate attention-grabber.
I legitimately don’t know how to explain how well, how cleverly, this story was executed. First of all, there’s the fact that, as I mentioned, Jack’s story doesn’t get a lot of hype nowadays. Which is a shame, because cannibalistic giants, magic singing harps, and golden egg-laying geese are truly fantastic story elements. Secondly, there’s the character element. Jack, unfortunately, is not a particularly lovable character, at least for me. His whole story consists of highly questionable decisions and poor judgment, which gets old after the first fifty mistakes. But make Jack a 19 year old con artist in training? Delightful. While not everything about Jes as a character is a strictly redeeming quality, she’s a solidly likable person, and she experiences a lot of personal growth over the course of the book. She’s incredibly fun to watch in action, as is her companion, and watching her mind work through events and options is marvelously entertaining.
Thirdly, there’s the actual story. Jack’s original tale is really more of a smash-n-grab adventure, but what if it was a carefully executed con in the vein of the ‘Ocean’s’ movies or ‘Catch Me If You Can’? The details, the careful crafting and precision planning, involved in making that work for this book is just astounding. The best part, for me, is that we get to see it all as it’s planned. It’s a different spin on the usual surprise reveals that the audience sees at the same time as the target. Here, we get to see the why and the how and the rejected ideas, and it’s riveting. It’s so easy to cheer for Jes because we’re planning things right along with her, and that makes everything that much more tense for the reader when the plans look like they might go off the rails.
Fourthly, and finally, is the world building. The setting where the story actually takes place is incredibly detailed and vibrant, and it leaps off the page to fully immerse you in the story. Combined with the little details (the golden Easter eggs, if you’ll forgive the horrendous pun) that call back to the original story, everything about the background and the story works hand in hand with an incredible plotline to make everything feel just that much more magical and amazing.
Obviously, this book was a huge hit for me. The pacing, the plot, the world, all of it worked in tandem to make a delightfully fun, wholly engaging story that I devoured whole. I immediately wanted to read it again. If you like stories based on some of the less represented fairytales, if you like stories with strong heroines who don’t quite know they’re the heroine yet, or if you’ve just always wanted to read a magical heist story, then this is the book for you.
Jes has lived her entire life as a swindler, a conwoman preying on those foolish enough to trust a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Under her mother’s instruction, Jes has become incredibly skilled, though not yet trusted enough to hunt on her own. As Jes and her mother kick off their newest con, an opportunity to get out from under Mav’s thumb presents itself, and Jes sets her target on much larger prey.
My first thought after starting the book was, “oh no. I love it.” Seriously, fairytale retellings, reimaginings, and inspired variations are probably my favorite type of story. Anything that takes one of those old stories and brings a fresh spin to it is going to win a lot of points with me. Taking something like ‘Jack and the Beanstalk,’ a criminally underrepresented tale, and making it into something so wildly different and yet so clearly the same? Immediate attention-grabber.
I legitimately don’t know how to explain how well, how cleverly, this story was executed. First of all, there’s the fact that, as I mentioned, Jack’s story doesn’t get a lot of hype nowadays. Which is a shame, because cannibalistic giants, magic singing harps, and golden egg-laying geese are truly fantastic story elements. Secondly, there’s the character element. Jack, unfortunately, is not a particularly lovable character, at least for me. His whole story consists of highly questionable decisions and poor judgment, which gets old after the first fifty mistakes. But make Jack a 19 year old con artist in training? Delightful. While not everything about Jes as a character is a strictly redeeming quality, she’s a solidly likable person, and she experiences a lot of personal growth over the course of the book. She’s incredibly fun to watch in action, as is her companion, and watching her mind work through events and options is marvelously entertaining.
Thirdly, there’s the actual story. Jack’s original tale is really more of a smash-n-grab adventure, but what if it was a carefully executed con in the vein of the ‘Ocean’s’ movies or ‘Catch Me If You Can’? The details, the careful crafting and precision planning, involved in making that work for this book is just astounding. The best part, for me, is that we get to see it all as it’s planned. It’s a different spin on the usual surprise reveals that the audience sees at the same time as the target. Here, we get to see the why and the how and the rejected ideas, and it’s riveting. It’s so easy to cheer for Jes because we’re planning things right along with her, and that makes everything that much more tense for the reader when the plans look like they might go off the rails.
Fourthly, and finally, is the world building. The setting where the story actually takes place is incredibly detailed and vibrant, and it leaps off the page to fully immerse you in the story. Combined with the little details (the golden Easter eggs, if you’ll forgive the horrendous pun) that call back to the original story, everything about the background and the story works hand in hand with an incredible plotline to make everything feel just that much more magical and amazing.
Obviously, this book was a huge hit for me. The pacing, the plot, the world, all of it worked in tandem to make a delightfully fun, wholly engaging story that I devoured whole. I immediately wanted to read it again. If you like stories based on some of the less represented fairytales, if you like stories with strong heroines who don’t quite know they’re the heroine yet, or if you’ve just always wanted to read a magical heist story, then this is the book for you.
November 5, 2021
I first came across Kate Sparkes books from a BookBub featured deal. I started Bound and fell in love with the story and Kate's writing style. Her stories just pull you in from the start and you want to know what happens next. And Vines and Vices was just like that. From the very moment, you start this book, you're pulled into Jes's world. You're wondering what she's doing (since the way she's described in the beginning is not what you read in the blurb) and what scam is she trying to pull. It was clear very early on within the first couple of pages that's what was happening. And I think the fact that Kate started the story there was kind of telling. She wanted to show us--the readers--that although Jes is our protagonist, she's not perfect. She's not your typical heroine at all. To see her scamming the people she was in the beginning kind of had me wondering if I could feel anything towards her. We all love the thief who takes from the rich and give to the poor whether that be them or others.
But because Kate is such a talented writer, I was in Jes's corner pretty much from the beginning. I was invested and wanted to know what was going to happen. And the main reason I connected with Jes was because I understood her. I understood the relationship she had with Mav on a personal level and that desire to be approved and told you're doing a good job. Plus, Jes really had no one else. All she had was Mav and I understood that too. Jes was someone you couldn't help but root for. Despite how her mother tried to raise her, she was a good person with a big heart. Even when she tried to think like a wolf, she couldn't quite hold on to it. Her adventures were so fun to read out and the high stakes of them just made it hard to put the book down.
Now for Cas. Oh, poor, Cas. I liked him from the moment we met him (although I couldn't reconcile him with his given name and got confused a little in the beginning). But as soon as he started telling the truth, I knew he was being used. For him to not see it just made me feel so bad for him. Both and and Jes were in impossible situations that they needed to figure out how to manuevure out of. They needed to figure out how to live their lives for themselves and no one else.
I want to talk about the Giant's world a little because it was spectacular. It was so well done and I don't want to give away anything so that's all I can say. I just enjoyed this book so much and how high stakes it was and how I never knew what was going to happen. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop at every moment. While also yelling at Jes and Cas for the decisions they were making. I cannot wait for the second book! I'm so freaking excited for this series and glad Kate has a new one for me to read!
But because Kate is such a talented writer, I was in Jes's corner pretty much from the beginning. I was invested and wanted to know what was going to happen. And the main reason I connected with Jes was because I understood her. I understood the relationship she had with Mav on a personal level and that desire to be approved and told you're doing a good job. Plus, Jes really had no one else. All she had was Mav and I understood that too. Jes was someone you couldn't help but root for. Despite how her mother tried to raise her, she was a good person with a big heart. Even when she tried to think like a wolf, she couldn't quite hold on to it. Her adventures were so fun to read out and the high stakes of them just made it hard to put the book down.
Now for Cas. Oh, poor, Cas. I liked him from the moment we met him (although I couldn't reconcile him with his given name and got confused a little in the beginning). But as soon as he started telling the truth, I knew he was being used. For him to not see it just made me feel so bad for him. Both and and Jes were in impossible situations that they needed to figure out how to manuevure out of. They needed to figure out how to live their lives for themselves and no one else.
I want to talk about the Giant's world a little because it was spectacular. It was so well done and I don't want to give away anything so that's all I can say. I just enjoyed this book so much and how high stakes it was and how I never knew what was going to happen. I was waiting for the other shoe to drop at every moment. While also yelling at Jes and Cas for the decisions they were making. I cannot wait for the second book! I'm so freaking excited for this series and glad Kate has a new one for me to read!
February 5, 2023
“Are you a wolf, Jesamyn? Or are you a lamb I should have slaughtered the moment you drew your first breath?”
Jes has lived her life in the control of her mother, Mav. Together, they’ve lied, conned, and stolen their way across the kingdom. But Jes is ready for more, if Mav would only let her try.
When Prince Balthazar stumbles across their path, Jes thinks she might finally have a way out. Too bad Mav has other plans for the pair.
“It would be one truth masquerading as a lie in a life built on lies that were meant to sound like truth.”
This quote pretty much sums up Jes’s struggle throughout the book. She wants nothing more than to escape Mav’s web of lies, but she goes about it the only way she knows how - via lies and manipulation.
Balthazar, aka Cas, is also not above using people for his own means. A prince with an unorthodox skillset, he joins Jes in the con of the decade. Either they’ll pull it off or lose their freedom - and possibly their lives - in the process.
I loved this Jack and the Beanstalk retelling. The heist aspects were so much fun to follow, and the developing relationship between Jes and Cas was a delight. The mistrust due to stereotypes between the giants and humans was carefully intertwined into the plot.
All the characters were carefully crafted with their own needs and wants. Even the bad guys you love to hate.
The settings were vividly drawn, and throughout the story you have a sense of being drawn in and becoming part of it.
I loved the story and the twist, but there were a few elements that I struggled with.
-Mild swearing throughout. Several S’s and D’s, and many instances of using “god” as a swear.
-Only a couple of kisses, but discussion of intimacy and pregnancy outside of marriage.
Jes has lived her life in the control of her mother, Mav. Together, they’ve lied, conned, and stolen their way across the kingdom. But Jes is ready for more, if Mav would only let her try.
When Prince Balthazar stumbles across their path, Jes thinks she might finally have a way out. Too bad Mav has other plans for the pair.
“It would be one truth masquerading as a lie in a life built on lies that were meant to sound like truth.”
This quote pretty much sums up Jes’s struggle throughout the book. She wants nothing more than to escape Mav’s web of lies, but she goes about it the only way she knows how - via lies and manipulation.
Balthazar, aka Cas, is also not above using people for his own means. A prince with an unorthodox skillset, he joins Jes in the con of the decade. Either they’ll pull it off or lose their freedom - and possibly their lives - in the process.
I loved this Jack and the Beanstalk retelling. The heist aspects were so much fun to follow, and the developing relationship between Jes and Cas was a delight. The mistrust due to stereotypes between the giants and humans was carefully intertwined into the plot.
All the characters were carefully crafted with their own needs and wants. Even the bad guys you love to hate.
The settings were vividly drawn, and throughout the story you have a sense of being drawn in and becoming part of it.
I loved the story and the twist, but there were a few elements that I struggled with.
-Mild swearing throughout. Several S’s and D’s, and many instances of using “god” as a swear.
-Only a couple of kisses, but discussion of intimacy and pregnancy outside of marriage.
October 11, 2021
I find myself rather amused and enchanted by this book. As far as main characters go, Jes is among my favorites - and not just because our names are similar :P. She's curious and smart and strong. As much as I hate Mav (she remind anyone else of Mother Gothel?!), she raised Jes to be a pretty independent person who has been able to take care of herself in so many ways since a very young age. And she raised her to think. I'm very interested to see who this old woman was that gave Jes the beans. Fairy Godmother? Cas is also a pretty great character (so glad he doesn't stick to Balthazar!). Smart and charming, a little naive perhaps, but definitely not what you'd call a stereotypical prince. They make a good pair. In their adventure and romantically. I loved Lyra and am glad nothing really bad happened to her. There were some moments I wondered. The rest of the cast was written well and were extremely easy to like/dislike. Mav was a horrid person and I really do hope she gets her just desserts. Niklas was simply pathetic. And as much as Teodora wasn't a nice person, I liked that. She was cunning and wicked sharp. I didn't like her, but I liked her?
The ending was fantastic. Perfect, really. Just enough of closure that you know the book is over. But also just enough of an opening that you know you may see them again. The only unfortunate thing is I now have to await the second book to see where the story takes us.
The ending was fantastic. Perfect, really. Just enough of closure that you know the book is over. But also just enough of an opening that you know you may see them again. The only unfortunate thing is I now have to await the second book to see where the story takes us.
August 31, 2024
I would have liked to give the book more than 3 stars.
I like the characters of the protagonist and her Mum. I liked the whole part about their backstory and their relationship dynamic. I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the book which is about them and how they are trying to make a living and the Protagonist trying to find her role in the shadow of an overpowering, almost cruel mother figure. Throw in a prince into that mix and watch what happens... I would have liked to read more of that.
However, I somehow didn't feel it when the characters entered the realm of the giants. I can't really tell why. I just felt it was a bit boring, I was not overly interested in the giants and I would have loved to see the story play out without the beanstalk... I know this kind of defeats the purpose of the book, but it's how I felt. I quit reading the book when the protagonist and the prince returned to the giants because I really was not interested in knowing how the story would continue.
I still think the author knows her craft, wrote the characters well and did a good job. I would consider buying other books written by the author, because my reading experience with this particular book seems to be caused by my personal preferences.
I like the characters of the protagonist and her Mum. I liked the whole part about their backstory and their relationship dynamic. I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of the book which is about them and how they are trying to make a living and the Protagonist trying to find her role in the shadow of an overpowering, almost cruel mother figure. Throw in a prince into that mix and watch what happens... I would have liked to read more of that.
However, I somehow didn't feel it when the characters entered the realm of the giants. I can't really tell why. I just felt it was a bit boring, I was not overly interested in the giants and I would have loved to see the story play out without the beanstalk... I know this kind of defeats the purpose of the book, but it's how I felt. I quit reading the book when the protagonist and the prince returned to the giants because I really was not interested in knowing how the story would continue.
I still think the author knows her craft, wrote the characters well and did a good job. I would consider buying other books written by the author, because my reading experience with this particular book seems to be caused by my personal preferences.
November 12, 2021
Did I picture Cas as Lazlo from What We Do in the Shadows? Yes.
Was he described in ANY WAY as Lazlo from What We Do in the Shadows? No.
Did my weird brain completely make that up? Yes.
Did it make the book that much more amazing to picture Cas as Lazlo? YESssssss!
As a first time Kate Sparkes reader, I'm a bit blown away. She has complete control over the plot, and I settled right in, trusting I was in the safe hands of a master writer. What she does best is so sneaky, though. She makes you think you know this characters in real life. Like, I KNOW Jes. She's my friend now. So sneak. So good! I loved Cas and Jes, and their repartee was so in the pocket that I felt like I was watching them in a movie. They played off one another so well, totally in sync. Refreshing is the word that comes to mind, as I'm a bit tired of reading two protags sassing each other around until all of a sudden they're kissing? *record scratch* aWha? Not these two. The chemistry is electric! Or should I say, the pair really *grows* on you?
I'd say if you're on the fence with this one, definitely pick it up. It's a pure pleasure to read!
Was he described in ANY WAY as Lazlo from What We Do in the Shadows? No.
Did my weird brain completely make that up? Yes.
Did it make the book that much more amazing to picture Cas as Lazlo? YESssssss!
As a first time Kate Sparkes reader, I'm a bit blown away. She has complete control over the plot, and I settled right in, trusting I was in the safe hands of a master writer. What she does best is so sneaky, though. She makes you think you know this characters in real life. Like, I KNOW Jes. She's my friend now. So sneak. So good! I loved Cas and Jes, and their repartee was so in the pocket that I felt like I was watching them in a movie. They played off one another so well, totally in sync. Refreshing is the word that comes to mind, as I'm a bit tired of reading two protags sassing each other around until all of a sudden they're kissing? *record scratch* aWha? Not these two. The chemistry is electric! Or should I say, the pair really *grows* on you?
I'd say if you're on the fence with this one, definitely pick it up. It's a pure pleasure to read!
November 8, 2021
I’ve been a fan of Kate’s since I first read Bound, but this had a different vibe. Jes is finding her way with her mothers instruction, but the peaceful life she longs for without scamming those near her seems so far away. Too soft she’s described as. For simply having a heart? Jes is by no means our typical heroine and to begin with it’s hard to want her to succeed. But as the story unravels and you sense her compassion and desire for approval from a mother who sees her as not much more than a money maker - well, that invokes compassion in itself.
Cas is a Prince, a man of honour - a lord when he wants to be. He wants a better life, freedom, away from the shackles of the palace, with his love. He’s not foolish, and yet naive to the intentions of those around him.
Together they embark on a journey up a beanstalk, but this isn’t a classic retelling by any means. Go forth and read this giant tale of hope, adventure, deception and magic✨.
Cas is a Prince, a man of honour - a lord when he wants to be. He wants a better life, freedom, away from the shackles of the palace, with his love. He’s not foolish, and yet naive to the intentions of those around him.
Together they embark on a journey up a beanstalk, but this isn’t a classic retelling by any means. Go forth and read this giant tale of hope, adventure, deception and magic✨.
September 15, 2021
What a ride. Wow.
This book takes a well-known fairytale and twists it into an epic adventure with a street-smart heroine who saves a prince from a ho-drum life and expands his emerging "undesirable" skillset to become a great accomplice in the biggest con of their lives.
The character development and world-building in this story provide a wonderful background to the story. You can immerse yourself and feel the characters as they tell their story. Be warned, though, as there are some characters that you will fall in love with and some that you will despise with your whole being.
There may also need to be a small trigger warning on the story for trauma and narcissism, but the growth mindset content outweighs the potential triggers...
This book takes a well-known fairytale and twists it into an epic adventure with a street-smart heroine who saves a prince from a ho-drum life and expands his emerging "undesirable" skillset to become a great accomplice in the biggest con of their lives.
The character development and world-building in this story provide a wonderful background to the story. You can immerse yourself and feel the characters as they tell their story. Be warned, though, as there are some characters that you will fall in love with and some that you will despise with your whole being.
There may also need to be a small trigger warning on the story for trauma and narcissism, but the growth mindset content outweighs the potential triggers...
April 11, 2022
I absolutely love a good fairytale retelling and I don’t think I have ever read a jack and the beanstalk one so was eager to dive into this and it was incredible! The author has done a fab job with the world building and I found myself totally drawn into this world. The storyline grabbed me from the start and was extremely entertaining, intriguing and very enjoyable. The characters, well some of them are likeable and then there are others which are not so likeable. Jes our mc is fantastic and has you rooting for her from the get go and Caz is not your typical fairytale prince and is smart and of course charming. It’s a magical and enchanting read and I am very excited to read the next book in the series.
January 16, 2024
This reimagined Jack in the Beanstalk tale was inventive. and had a few surprises I didn't expect. These aspects of the novel were fun and interesting to read. For the most part, the writing was easy to understand with few errors and the story was unique and well imagined. That said, I must confess to skimming through much of the wording while still managing to easily keep up with what was happening in the storyline. To me, the author could easily say the same things, but in a tighter, quicker way. This doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the story. I did. But trimming, combining sentences and cutting away the excess would make this story a much better read.
October 20, 2021
This is a wonderful fairytale retelling! To be honest, I became pretty sick of fairytale rehashes when my daughter, who loved them, was small. But I adore Ms. Sparkes' work, so figured it would be better than the glossy stuff I have read. It. Is. Amazing. Among other things, now I know what is really at the top of that beanstalk, and it is a fascinating place. The characters are beautifully drawn, the plot amazingly rich and intricate, and the setting gorgeous. I absolutely recommend this for everyone, including people who think they don't like fairytale retellings!
October 30, 2021
Vines and Vices is a retelling of a classic fairytale but don't let that fool you into believing you know what is going to happen.
The author has used her imagination and amazing ability to write a novel that involves adventure and romance with characters that you may not always love but will keep you captivated until the end.
While modernised (retold?) fairytales isn't something I would usually read, I found myself really enjoying this book and I look forward to seeing what Kate has instore for us in the next book in the series.
The author has used her imagination and amazing ability to write a novel that involves adventure and romance with characters that you may not always love but will keep you captivated until the end.
While modernised (retold?) fairytales isn't something I would usually read, I found myself really enjoying this book and I look forward to seeing what Kate has instore for us in the next book in the series.
November 8, 2021
I found Kate Spades with the Bound trilogy. This new book by her is more of the same type of fantasy book. I love the way Kate is able to define her characters and make them feel like real people. This is a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, and I will admit that when the beans came into the story, I was skeptical. However, Kate was able to turn an old fairy tale into a modern story. There were a few plot twists that I did not see coming and kept me engaged. I am looking forward to the second book in the series. I would definitely say this one is worth the read.
September 27, 2021
Loved it! The characters and setting of this book serve as a brilliant foundation for a story that walks the edge between familiar and unique, with nods to classic tales that never threaten to overwhelm the story being told.
I have been a fan of Sparkes' writing since the beginning, and with this first installment of a new series it is obvious that she has only grown in her craft. I cannot wait to read this again in print, and am excited for more to come!
I have been a fan of Sparkes' writing since the beginning, and with this first installment of a new series it is obvious that she has only grown in her craft. I cannot wait to read this again in print, and am excited for more to come!
October 31, 2021
I've always loved the fairy tales. Having a retelling as GORGEOUS as Vines and Vices is amazing.
I have tried to write this without spoilers. If you at all enjoy fairy tales, adventure, complex characters, twists, plummets! If you want a story that will have you jump, bite your nails, twitch your feet in anticipation. Grab this one up. This was my first introduction into Kate Sparkes writing and it is beautiful.
This was a wonderful story that I know I'll go back to reread.
I have tried to write this without spoilers. If you at all enjoy fairy tales, adventure, complex characters, twists, plummets! If you want a story that will have you jump, bite your nails, twitch your feet in anticipation. Grab this one up. This was my first introduction into Kate Sparkes writing and it is beautiful.
This was a wonderful story that I know I'll go back to reread.
May 29, 2022
Great fairytale retelling!
Jes is a con woman who works with her mother to take people's money. They met Prince Balthazar when their wagon broke a wheel on their way to a new town and new con. However after meeting the prince, Mav decides that Jes now posing as young noble Cordelia Collershins, must get him to fall for her and marry her. What happens is a lot of adventure, danger, gold. Read this series, I promise you'll enjoy it. 😉
Thanks, Fate
Jes is a con woman who works with her mother to take people's money. They met Prince Balthazar when their wagon broke a wheel on their way to a new town and new con. However after meeting the prince, Mav decides that Jes now posing as young noble Cordelia Collershins, must get him to fall for her and marry her. What happens is a lot of adventure, danger, gold. Read this series, I promise you'll enjoy it. 😉
Thanks, Fate
December 28, 2022
Quite a nail biter!
When the protagonist turned out to be female, I was dubious at the whole Jack and Beanstalk retelling, but Jes - our non-Jack protagonist - had many, MANY tricks up her sleeve. And in her boots. And strapped to her back... I thoroughly enjoyed her trips up the beanstalk and her adventures down below, even though I was literally biting my nails (and cuticles) worried if she was going to come out on top.
When the protagonist turned out to be female, I was dubious at the whole Jack and Beanstalk retelling, but Jes - our non-Jack protagonist - had many, MANY tricks up her sleeve. And in her boots. And strapped to her back... I thoroughly enjoyed her trips up the beanstalk and her adventures down below, even though I was literally biting my nails (and cuticles) worried if she was going to come out on top.
August 25, 2024
I wasn't sure what to think about this book in the beginning, since we open with the MC defrauding the poor, but I have to say, Jesamyn really grew on me.
I also didn't realise this was going to be a Jack and the Beanstalk retelling. If I had, I might not have read it and I would have missed out on an enjoyable story. I loved the slow burn relationship between Jes and Cas, and I loved watching her work out what lines she would and would not cross.
A great retelling that I loved reading.
I also didn't realise this was going to be a Jack and the Beanstalk retelling. If I had, I might not have read it and I would have missed out on an enjoyable story. I loved the slow burn relationship between Jes and Cas, and I loved watching her work out what lines she would and would not cross.
A great retelling that I loved reading.
November 3, 2021
Loved the Jack and the Beanstalk retelling! I enjoy the character development and the depth of deception in the book and how it plays with the heartstrings. The independent main character looking to prove themselves and a partner looking for adventure makes the story relatable and immersive. Don't forget, the Con is never done!
April 12, 2022
Not my normal read but well worth the time. The author puts a whole new twist on jack and the bean stalk that keeps delivering new twists and turns.By the end you want to almost cheer for the main characters. Good clean reading that I wouldn't mind my preteen getting a hold of but also entertaining enough for adults to enjoy.
August 19, 2024
Lovely retelling
Really enjoyed this! Took me a little while to get into. Jes is a wolf (con artist) and ends up running a spectacular Jack and the Beanstalk retelling con. Great character development, good world building, well written. Looking for others in the series!
Really enjoyed this! Took me a little while to get into. Jes is a wolf (con artist) and ends up running a spectacular Jack and the Beanstalk retelling con. Great character development, good world building, well written. Looking for others in the series!
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