Nutcracker of Crystalfall: A FREE Fae Nutcracker Retelling

Kay L. Moody

Nov 2022 · Marten Press

About this ebook

A sweeping fae fairy tale retelling filled with adventure, magic, and learning one’s worth. This standalone is an action-packed and heart-warming start to the Fae and Crystal Thorns series.

The annual Christmas party was going just fine... until the trolls showed up. Clara is a young woman who is wickedly good at puzzles, but she also has a secret her parents have shamed her into hiding. The weight of that secret has ruined nearly every happy moment in her life.

At least this year’s Christmas party gets more interesting once a mysterious stranger shows up. He teaches Clara how to crack nuts, wears a soldier’s uniform she’s never seen, and flashes a smile she’ll never forget.

But then a cruel party guest destroys the only gift that matters to Clara. Even worse, trolls appear and try to kill the handsome stranger she only just met. The fight rages into the night. Soon, Clara has to make a choice.

She could finally escape her unloving parents and the dreadful life they have planned for her. It would only take a promise to join an even greater conflict in the magical and dangerous realm of Faerie—a land she previously didn’t know existed.

If she stays home, her happiness will end forever. If she goes to Faerie, a great adventure awaits her…but it might kill her too.

***Note*** This standalone novella takes place in the same world as the Fae and Crystal Thorns series, but it takes place much earlier. Although it is technically a prequel, it can be read at any time throughout the series.

Ratings and reviews

I really loved this book. It's a standalone book from the series but it gives you a fair view of the magical realms and the characters involved in the further series. I love the two main protagonists of the story. If you are looking for a chance to live in the magical realm for a little while then you must go for it. you gonna love it :)

First off I should mention I've never actually read the original nutcracker book, but I will have to now. This book is an astounding retelling of what sounds like a great story, the world building is beautiful and well implemented. I absolutely loved the characters, especially our main two, Revyn and Clara. I have to admit the best part about this book, was the end because it confirms that this is book 1 in a new series. More is definitely what I was hoping for as the book drew near to the end, and that's exactly what we will be getting. I fell in love with Revyn from the very first scene he appears in, I love his arrogant cocky side and his timid vulnerable side. Clara she's such a wonderful leading character, she's unfortunately got rotten luck but is hopeful and optimistic throughout the story. The pixies are exquisite and beautifully described, it reminded me of a slightly less temperamental Tinkerbell. I know one thing for certain, I will be pre ordering this entire series.

I just loved your book, it was a beautiful story of emerging love, frought with excitment, danger,and the fanciful. Excellently written.

About the author

Kay L. Moody is the YA fantasy author of COURT OF BITTER THORN and THE ELEMENTS OF THE CROWN. Her books feature rich world building, slow burn romance, mythical creatures, and twisty plots.

As a lover of strong female characters, books, and the color pink, she enjoys diving into magical worlds where characters can overcome even their darkest struggles. She lives in the western United States with her husband and four sons. Connect with Kay directly when you follow her on social media @kaylmoody

Visit her website to learn more. kaylmoody.com