This has turned out into a slightly spoilerish mini review. I didn't know what to expect of the book at all and was extremely surprised in a very pleasant way. For a kids' fantasy book, this was much better than a lot of adult ones! The story was extremely entertaining. It was told from the POV of a self-professed villain, who miserably failed at being one. His interactions with his sidekick (who was supposed to be an evil spirit but turned out to be an extremely benevolent one) were hilarious. And so were his attempts to convince everyone he was not a hero:) I loved the story, the characters and the humour of the story. I'm only sorry that the story was too short and as it ended on a cliffhanger, I really want to go on with the second book! Full review to come but the story was really funny, and very meta and just made me giggle. The Deal: It's hard out there for a villain, as Lord Arkus of Blackriver Castle will tell you, but that doesn't mean he doesn't get to be the star of his own story, after all, didn't Prince Kellemar - a would-be hero - use questionable methods to defeat him?So now he's on the run and the only chance to get revenge and reclaim his castle is trapping a very powerful evil spirt. But a confusion leaves him tied to a "sparkling", a good spirit that is supposed to help heroes and that now is intent on acting on Arkus best interest.Never mind that it goes completely against Arkus' plans.My Thoughts: Toward the end of last year I was looking for something relaxing to read and My Sparkling Misfortune was just the thing.It's a relatively short story told by Arkus that constantly breaks the fourth wall to talk directly to the reader and share his opinions on what's going on, and he is hilarious.He LOOOVES being mean and being the villain, and loves to explain his plans and everything, and it was fun. It has a vaguely fairy-tale quality to it but you're actually rooting for the bad guy. Sadly, I do think it's a bit pricey at is current price -I got it for free a few months ago - but it is a good book.
What do You think about My Sparkling Misfortune (2000)?
A cute, fun, feel good read! I really enjoyed the story and the style. Made me chuckle throughout.
—CDuque
Charming, laugh out loud, children's book.
—maryanne
