20 best books on fairy tales with twist – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you a fan of the classic fairy tales, but crave a little more excitement and unpredictability? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the 20 best books about fairy tales with a twist that will leave you spellbound. These enchanting tales will transport you to magical realms where familiar characters and storylines take unexpected turns. Get ready to dive into a world of wonder and imagination as you explore these captivating fairy tales with twist books.


The Hazel Wood

by Melissa Albert

The Hazel Wood is a mesmerizing book about fantastical tales with a mind-bending twist. Dive into a world where fairy tales collide with reality and nothing is as it seems. This extraordinary novel takes you on a journey through the dark and mysterious Hazel Wood, where the line between fiction and truth is blurred. With every page, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into a web of enchantment and danger. Prepare to be captivated by a story that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about fairy tales. Get ready to embark on a thrilling adventure through a world where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and the impossible becomes possible.

The Bear and the Nightingale

by Katherine Arden

The Bear and the Nightingale is a captivating fairytale with a twist that will transport you to a magical world. Set in medieval Russia, this enchanting book on fairy tales with a twist follows the story of Vasya, a young girl with a mysterious connection to the supernatural.

As the daughter of a nobleman, Vasya is expected to marry and settle down. But she has always been different, with the ability to see and communicate with the spirits that inhabit the forests. When her father brings a new stepmother home, who is determined to rid the house of these “evil” spirits, Vasya’s world is turned upside down.

With its lush descriptions and atmospheric setting, this book about fairy tales with a twist will transport you to a world of mythical creatures and ancient folklore. As Vasya fights to save her village from an otherworldly danger, she must navigate the complex web of family and duty.

Arden’s writing is spellbinding, and she weaves a tale that is both magical and thought-provoking. The fairy tales with a twist book explores themes of feminism, the clash between old traditions and new beliefs, and the power of embracing one’s true self.

If you’re looking for a fairytale with a twist that will keep you on the edge of your seat, The Bear and the Nightingale is the perfect choice. Get ready to be whisked away into a world of magic, danger, and the enduring power of love.

Spinning Silver

by Naomi Novik

Spinning Silver: A Mesmerizing Tale of Enchanting Curves

Step into a world where fairy tales take unexpected turns and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. Naomi Novik weaves a spellbinding tapestry in her captivating novel, Spinning Silver. This exquisite masterpiece reinvents the genre of fairy tales with a twist, delivering a story that will leave you breathless.

Novik’s enchanting prose transports us to a time where magic and reality coexist, blurring the lines between what we know and what we dare to dream. In this bewitching tale, three women’s lives entwine in a web of silver threads, where strength and cunning are the keys to survival.

As the story unfolds, we meet Miryem, a young girl with a talent for turning silver into gold. Her remarkable skill attracts the attention of the icy Staryk king, plunging her into a dangerous game of wits and wills. Alongside Miryem, we are introduced to Wanda, a village girl forced into Miryem’s service, and Irina, a noblewoman harboring a secret that could change the fate of the kingdom.

With each page, Novik’s words cast a spell, drawing us deeper into a world of treacherous magic and unforeseen consequences. As the characters navigate their own desires and the complex web of political intrigue, their stories intertwine with a grace that is both haunting and mesmerizing.

Prepare to be swept away by Novik’s luminous storytelling, as Spinning Silver invites us to explore the depths of courage, sacrifice, and the power of love. This spellbinding novel is a testament to the enduring allure of fairy tales, reminding us that sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys begin with a simple twist.

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making

by Catherynne M. Valente

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making is a whimsical and enchanting tale that takes readers on a magical journey through a world filled with fantastical creatures and unexpected twists. This book is not your ordinary fairy tale – it is a treasure trove of surprises and imagination.

Uprooted

by Naomi Novik

Are you ready to dive into a bewitching world where traditional tales take a thrilling twist? Look no further than Uprooted, a captivating book about enchantment and adventure that will leave you spellbound. Naomi Novik weaves a mesmerizing story, blending elements of magic and folklore to create a truly unforgettable experience. Get ready to embark on a journey through a land filled with beauty and danger, where the line between good and evil is blurred, and where unexpected twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat. This is not just a book on fairy tales with a twist, this is a fairy tale with a twist book that will leave you craving for more.

The Snow Child

by Eowyn Ivey

Are you ready for a captivating journey into the heart of a winter wonderland? Look no further than The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey, a mesmerizing book that weaves together the magic of fairy tales with a breathtaking twist.

The Ocean at the End of the Lane

by Neil Gaiman

The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman is a captivating book on fairy tales with a twist. It takes you on a mesmerizing journey into a world where reality and fantasy blend seamlessly, leaving you spellbound from beginning to end.

The Book of Lost Things

by John Connolly

The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly is a mesmerizing journey into a world of twisted fairy tales. This enchanting novel takes readers on an extraordinary adventure, where familiar stories are turned upside down and transformed into something dark and unexpected.

The Golem and the Jinni

by Helene Wecker

The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker is a spellbinding tale that takes the concept of ‘fairy tales with a twist’ to a whole new level. Set in the vibrant streets of 19th century New York, this novel seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, folklore, and historical fiction to create a truly mesmerizing reading experience.

The Night Circus

by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus is a mesmerizing book on fairy tales with a twist. It takes you on a magical journey through a world full of enchantment and wonder. The story revolves around two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who are bound by a fierce competition set up by their mentors. But this is not your typical book about fairy tales with a twist. The circus they create, known as Le Cirque des Rêves, is no ordinary circus. It appears mysteriously at night, and its black and white tents hold unimaginable marvels. As the competition intensifies, Celia and Marco find themselves falling in love, unaware of the consequences their love may have on the circus and everyone involved. With its rich and vivid descriptions, The Night Circus is a fairy tale with a twist that will captivate you from beginning to end.

The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives

by Michael Buckley

In “The Sisters Grimm: The Fairy-Tale Detectives” by Michael Buckley, get ready to dive into a magical world where fairy tales take a thrilling twist. This book is not your ordinary fairy tale; it’s a captivating adventure filled with mystery, humor, and unexpected surprises.

The Wrath and the Dawn

by Renee Ahdieh

The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh is a captivating book about fairy tales with a twist. Set in a lush world inspired by Arabian Nights, this spellbinding tale weaves together love, betrayal, and revenge in a way that will leave you breathless.

The School for Good and Evil

by Soman Chainani

Welcome to the enchanting world of The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani! This spellbinding novel takes the beloved genre of fairy tales and adds an unexpected twist. If you’re a fan of stories that defy expectations and challenge conventional wisdom, then this is the book for you. Brace yourself for a journey into a world where good and evil are not what they seem, where heroes and villains are not easily defined, and where the boundaries between fantasy and reality blur.

The Girl in the Tower

by Katherine Arden

Prepare to be enchanted by Katherine Arden’s captivating novel, The Girl in the Tower. This spellbinding tale takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world of magic, danger, and unexpected twists.

Set in medieval Russia, this book is like a mesmerizing storybook with a twist. It follows the courageous and clever Vasya as she defies societal norms and embarks on a daring adventure. Armed with her wits, Vasya navigates a treacherous landscape filled with mythical creatures, ancient legends, and dark secrets.

Arden’s masterful storytelling weaves together elements of folklore, history, and fantasy, creating a rich tapestry that will transport readers to a realm where fairy tales are reimagined. With each turn of the page, you’ll be immersed in a world where magic is both beautiful and dangerous, and where the line between good and evil is blurred.

As Vasya’s journey unfolds, you’ll find yourself captivated by the complex characters, vivid descriptions, and the intricate web of interconnected stories. Arden’s attention to detail and her ability to evoke strong emotions make The Girl in the Tower a truly unforgettable reading experience.

So, if you’re seeking a book about fairy tales with a twist, look no further than The Girl in the Tower. Its enchanting blend of folklore and adventure will leave you spellbound and eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

The Cruel Prince

by Holly Black

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is a captivating book that takes a refreshing twist on traditional fairy tales. It transports readers into a world filled with enchantment, betrayal, and a dash of darkness. This spellbinding tale is like no other, weaving together elements of fantasy and intrigue to create a truly unforgettable reading experience.

The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic

by Leigh Bardugo

The Language of Thorns: Midnight Tales and Dangerous Magic is an enchanting book of folklore and fables, woven together with a dark and thrilling twist. If you’re tired of the same old fairy tales, this is the book for you.

The Queen of Snow

by Laura Byron and Jessie Cal

The Queen of Snow is a captivating book about fairy tales with a twist. Written by Laura Byron and Jessie Cal, this enchanting tale takes readers on a magical journey through a world where traditional fairy tales are turned upside down.

In this unique story, readers will meet a cast of characters like never before. Cinderella becomes a fierce warrior, Snow White becomes a cunning spy, and Red Riding Hood becomes a master detective. These familiar characters are given new depth and complexity, adding a fresh and exciting twist to the classic tales we all know and love.

As the plot unfolds, readers will be swept away by the imaginative world-building and intricate storytelling. The authors seamlessly blend elements of fantasy, adventure, and mystery to create a truly unforgettable reading experience.

With its unexpected plot twists, richly developed characters, and vivid descriptions, The Queen of Snow is a must-read for fans of fairy tales with a twist. Whether you’re a lifelong lover of these timeless stories or simply looking for a new and exciting adventure, this book is sure to captivate and delight.

The Stepsister Scheme

by Jim C. Hines

The Stepsister Scheme is a captivating book about fairy tales with a twist. It takes you on an enchanting journey through a world where well-known fairy tales collide and their heroines join forces to save the day. With a blend of adventure, humor, and unexpected twists, this book on fairy tales with a twist will keep you hooked from start to finish.

The Child Thief

by Brom

The Child Thief by Brom is a captivating book on fairy tales with a twist that will transport you to a dark and enchanting world. This book about fairy tales with a twist takes the familiar stories we grew up with and turns them on their heads, delving into the sinister and dangerous aspects that were once only hinted at.

The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell

by Chris Colfer

The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell by Chris Colfer is a captivating book about fairy tales with a twist. In this enchanting adventure, twins Alex and Conner Bailey stumble upon a magical book that transports them into a world where traditional fairy tales take an unexpected turn. As they navigate through this extraordinary land, they encounter beloved characters like Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, and Snow White, but with a twist that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 best books about fairy tales with twist offer a delightful and enchanting reading experience. From reimagined classics to original tales with unexpected twists, these books will captivate both children and adults alike. With their imaginative storytelling and unique perspectives, these books breathe new life into beloved fairy tales, taking readers on magical journeys they will never forget. So, dive into these enchanting pages and let your imagination soar with these captivating books about fairy tales with twist!