ARC Review: Geekerella by Ashley Poston

Title: Geekerella

Cinderella is one of my all-time favorite fairy tales and I’m always happy to jump into a new spin, just like Geekerella‘s. This is a modern retelling, similar to Hillary Duff’s A Cinderella Story movie, but much more entertaining and relatable to us geeky lovers. It has the horrible step-mother and step-sisters who Elle is forced to comply every demand, but with the fun twist of being a fandom-obsessed blogger, daughter of the ExcelsiCon creator of said fandom, and finding herself exchanging texts with none other than the actor who will play the main lead in the new Starfield reboot.

In “real” life, Elle absolutely hates the idea of Darien playing Carmindor, the Starfield hero since he seems to be just a popular heartthrob playing the part only for the money. However, Darien is as much of a fan as Elle, though he has to constantly struggle with the prejudice and expectations of the public. When they start texting each other, completely unaware of their true identities, they start to feel a connection and have the chance to truly be themselves. Sparks fly, feelings ensue, and an adorable romantic fairy tale takes place between the two.

When it comes to made-up fandoms inside books, I often struggle to feel invested in them as much as the characters, but this time, I fell madly in love with Carmindor and Starfield to the point of wanting to believe that it’s a real Sci-Fi series. Elle and Darien speak so passionately about this fandom that it’s hard not to feel for it, to dream of one day watching the new reboot with Darien in it (and also to see the old episodes!).

Author Ashley Poston constantly shares a few quotes from the Starfield series and I can’t stop myself from sharing my favorite one:


“Look to the stars. Aim. Ignite.”  – Federation Prince Carmindor

Oh, why does this quote make my heart swell so much? Geekerella truly ignited my geek-loving soul, its aim went true and struck me in a way that no book had done in such a long time. I am madly in love with the characters, Elle’s and Darien’s love story, their passion and vulnerability at being the odd ones out. And not only Elle and Darien, but also the other supporting characters that made this story even more magical. Like Darien’s assistant Gail or Elle’s coworker in the Magic Pumpkin food truck, Sage. This is a book where everyone (good) could be themselves and stand out on their own.


Final Verdict:

Forgive all my fangirling, but I really cannot stop raving about this book. Geekerella may very well be my favorite read of the year so far. It’s absolutely magical, romantic, and perfect for all of us geek at heart. Trust me on this one, you definitely want this book to be at the top of your TBR pile!