Although the writing isn't stellar and some of the characters are a little weak, Cinder has to win for the most original representation of the Cinderella fairy tale. Cinder is a talented mechanic and cyborg living in the city of New Beijing following the conclusion of the fourth World War. Forced to work to support her begrudging stepmother, Cinder is exposed to the plague currently threatening lives in the city. Although Cinder remains well, she is blamed for her stepsister's illness.
In the midst of turmoil at home, Cinder meets and develops a friendship with Prince Kai. Kai has turmoil of his own as he strives to find a cure for the plague and stop the mind-controlling Lunar Queen from starting another war. Somehow, in the midst of all this classic science fiction conflict, Meyer manages to include a ball and her own version of a glass slipper. I'm not usually a science fiction fan, but this fairy tale retelling was creatively done. Be warned though, it is another victim of the 'series conspiracy' and ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. No happily ever after for this intergalactic fairy tale-yet.
Recommended for ages-12 and up