A fantastic and unique take on a classic fairytale. A brilliant way to reimagine a classic story, and this author really made it their own.
From the Lampwick and the No Strings Friend blurb:
What if Pinocchio saved Lampwick from his dark fate? What if, years later, the two reunited and became more than best friends?
That puppet boy saved me from a life as an ass—literally.
And I swore I’d do anything to repay him, his Papa, and all the people I wronged. So now here I am, a decade later, back to work for Geppetto. I need to make up for the sins of my childhood. I’m not that obnoxious kid anymore, roaming the streets for fun.
But Pinocchio has grown up, too. He’s all man, no strings, no wood, and he’s welcomed me back into his life with open arms. Growing close to him is scary and thrilling, but could someone so loyal, brave, and true want to pursue a future with the likes of me?
My conscience is telling me the former puppet could do a lot better than a fool like me. But years ago, I got a second chance at a real life, and now, as a man, I know what my heart is wishing for. I’m falling for my childhood best friend, with all the strings attached, and I need to do what it takes to convince him I’m the real deal.
“Lampwick and the No Strings Friend” is a spicy, sweet reinterpretation of a future where Lampwick and Pinocchio find each other again. It involves carpentry, sassy pet cats, first times, bathing in rivers, and hopefully not too many wood puns. In this adult M/M romance retelling of the classic fairy tale, when you wish for a HEA, it’s guaranteed to come true.
Angel's review:
CD Rachels is a new-to-me author, I think this is the first book I've read by them, and I'm impressed by their writing! When it comes to classic fairytale a lot can go wrong, if you take too much creative liberties with it then it's no longer the story you know and love, but if you don't make it enough of your own then it falls flat. CD Rachels blended the classic fairytale with their own story continuing from where the classic left off. The way this author wrote about Lampwick and Pinocchio was so creative, and I loved the creativity that came with giving both of these men more personality, depth, and detail.
As soon as I started this book I was immediately transported to a small town in Italy, that's full of love and friendship. Pinocchio and Lampwick got into a lot of trouble in their youth, and Lampwick is determined to atone for his past sins. I liked the redemption arc that Lampo's character has, it was really beautiful to see him own up to his childhood mistakes and try to find ways to earn forgiveness. His love for Pinocchio is so precious, he has had a special place in his heart for Pinocchio ever since he met the man, and it really shows.
Another aspect I'd like to point out is how this is set in an almost historical period of time, it's definitely set in an older time period and I liked how CD Rachels stayed true to that time period. I really appreciated the details that went in to describing everything from the background scenery, to the intricate cuts and detailing of the puppets, to the ways the cute cats were described. I just found everything to be well written!
Now for the romance! The romance between Lampo and Sticks was absolutely precious, seeing these two realize and admit how they truly feel about one another was so endearing. Truly so adorable! All in all a fantastic retelling of a classic fairytale!
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