5 Fairytale Retellings That Will Cast a Spell on You
Here at The Reading Chamber, we believe that loving magical tales never ends—especially when there’s so many new twists on classic favorites to discover! We’ve stocked our shelves with some of the most enchanting fairytale retellings in the young adult world and you probably haven’t even heard of some of them. Whether you’re a fan of fierce heroines, morally gray villains, or lush fantasy realms, these stories take everything you love about classic tales and reimagine them in bold, unexpected ways.
If you’re ready to escape into worlds of seafoam and secrets, curses and court intrigue, look no further. These five stunning YA books offer richly reimagined takes on beloved tales—with twists you won’t see coming.
House of Salt and Sorrows by Erin A. Craig
This eerie, ocean-drenched retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses is equal parts gothic mystery and haunting romance. As death shadows a noble family by the sea, one sister dares to uncover the curse behind their nightly dances. Dark, immersive, and beautifully written—it’s a must-read for fans of atmospheric fantasy.
A Word So Fitly Spoken by T.A. Lawrence
In this lush, lyrical retelling of 1,001 Nights , a girl with a dangerous gift for storytelling volunteers to marry a fae king known for executing human brides. She spins tales to survive—and uncovers the secrets behind his blood-soaked throne. Sharp, emotional, and full of high-stakes magic, it’s perfect for fans of slow-burn tension and fierce heroines.
A Tune to Make Them Follow by T.A. Lawrence
The second book in T.A. Lawrence’s Severed Realms series, this darkly compelling Pied Piper retelling is filled with haunting magic and buried secrets. A melody that draws children away from villages means uncovering a truth no one is ready to face. With rich prose and powerful themes, this is a story that echoes long after the final note.
Emerge by Tobie Easton
This Little Mermaid retelling dives into what happens after the fairy tale ends. Living among humans, a mermaid struggles with love, loyalty, and the weight of legacy. With coastal California vibes and a dreamy romance, this is a fresh, romantic twist on a beloved underwater legend.
Storylore by Mae McKoy
What if fairytales were living things—capable of rewriting themselves, and us, in the process? In this imaginative tale, McKoy crafts a love letter to stories, weaving classic motifs and Greek myths with contemporary themes and a magical literary twist. Smart, heartfelt, and utterly original.
Sometimes, the best stories are the ones we thought we already knew. Shop all of these titles at The Reading Chamber and check out our full fantasy section here.
