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Jaclyn and the Beanstalk
What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night…
Sixteen-year-old Jaclyn looks up to her father. An honest man who once fought for the king, he now teaches Jaclyn how to use her wits—and her sword.
But he has a secret. And his secret may have a connection to the one thing Jaclyn is hiding from him.
Upon hearing “monsters” are terrorizing the small villages around Black Mountain, Jaclyn’s father and his friends head out to hunt them … but they don’t return.
Armed only with her sword and three magic beans—a gift from a mysterious old woman—Jaclyn sets out for Black Mountain to save her father.
On her climb, one bean drops and grows into a beanstalk, catching her when she falls.
She isn’t the only one that takes the ride. Jack, her childhood friend and secret crush, is following her.
Jaclyn and Jack will have to work together to save not only their fathers, but the townspeople the beasts plan to lay waste to before it’s too late.
Sixteen-year-old Jaclyn looks up to her father. An honest man who once fought for the king, he now teaches Jaclyn how to use her wits—and her sword.
But he has a secret. And his secret may have a connection to the one thing Jaclyn is hiding from him.
Upon hearing “monsters” are terrorizing the small villages around Black Mountain, Jaclyn’s father and his friends head out to hunt them … but they don’t return.
Armed only with her sword and three magic beans—a gift from a mysterious old woman—Jaclyn sets out for Black Mountain to save her father.
On her climb, one bean drops and grows into a beanstalk, catching her when she falls.
She isn’t the only one that takes the ride. Jack, her childhood friend and secret crush, is following her.
Jaclyn and Jack will have to work together to save not only their fathers, but the townspeople the beasts plan to lay waste to before it’s too late.
275 pages, Paperback
Published September 4, 2018
About the author
Mary Ting
48 books2,154 followersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMaryTing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authormaryt...
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marytingauthor
Website: https://www.tangledtalesofting.com/
Twitter @MaryTing https://twitter.com/MaryTing
Born in Seoul, Korea, author Mary Ting is an international bestselling, multi-gold award-winning author. Her books span a wide range of genres, and her storytelling talents have earned a devoted legion of fans, as well as garnered critical praise. She is a diverse voice who writes diverse characters, often dealing with a catastrophic world.
Becoming an author happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother and inspired by a dream she had in high school. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, Mary retired from teaching. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authormaryt...
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marytingauthor
Website: https://www.tangledtalesofting.com/
Twitter @MaryTing https://twitter.com/MaryTing
Born in Seoul, Korea, author Mary Ting is an international bestselling, multi-gold award-winning author. Her books span a wide range of genres, and her storytelling talents have earned a devoted legion of fans, as well as garnered critical praise. She is a diverse voice who writes diverse characters, often dealing with a catastrophic world.
Becoming an author happened by chance. It was a way to grieve the death of her beloved grandmother and inspired by a dream she had in high school. After realizing she wanted to become a full-time author, Mary retired from teaching. She also had the privilege of touring with the Magic Johnson Foundation to promote literacy and her children’s chapter book: No Bullies Allowed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 17, 2018
***3.5/5 Stars***
Jaclyn and The Beanstalk was a magical tale filled with adventure, love and family. It was an entertaining take on Jack and the Beanstalk and I loved how creative this story was at times. While it held some of the same elements as the original tale, it was interesting watching how it veered off onto its own path. When I reached that last page, three shining things stood out to me, and they were:
✮ The creativity in this retelling:
While this book shared a lot of similarities with the original tale, its bright spot was how there was a unique twist on almost every single one of those similarities. This time it was a girl named Jaclyn who was given the beans and inadvertently grows the beanstalk. There was also a Jack in this story and I absolutely loved him....more about him below! Instead of a giant, there were monsters and they were nightmare inducing. Everything that surrounded them was a huge mystery that we got to unravel. I'm not going to say anymore than that because there were a lot of surprises along the way and it was a lot of fun seeing how it all played out!
✮ Jacyln:
Jaclyn was who we followed on this adventure and who was given the magic beans. But she was so much more than I thought she would be. Her father had trained her to be a fighter and I loved how fierce and brave she could be! While she had some growing up to do, we got to watch her mature as the story unfolded. She was on the right path and I loved how she always had faith in herself. So I had fun cheering her on!
✮ Jack:
Jack was a childhood friend of Jacyln and we got to meet him as the story progressed. From the moment we met Jack, I liked him right from the start. He was mature, strong and definitely swoon worthy. Especially since he knew what he wanted, which was Jaclyn, and he had no problem speaking his mind. I loved how protective he was of her and how he could also joke so easily at the same time. He was a wonderful book boyfriend and I know a lot of people are going to be caught up in his charm!
I was happy to see that this book wrapped up nicely and that there was an epilogue that jumped into the future. In that epilogue there was an element that left the possibility for a future book possible, so that idea was a lot of fun to think about! So if you're into retellings, check this book out. But I have to give a heads up that there was a lot of biblical references throughout the story. It influenced so many aspects, including the characters. I still had a lot of fun with the characters and watching how the story played out, even though I'm not the biggest fan of having that in the stories I pick up. And while this book is YA, it would be a great first step for someone coming from MG!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by Xpresso. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Jaclyn and The Beanstalk was a magical tale filled with adventure, love and family. It was an entertaining take on Jack and the Beanstalk and I loved how creative this story was at times. While it held some of the same elements as the original tale, it was interesting watching how it veered off onto its own path. When I reached that last page, three shining things stood out to me, and they were:
How in the world can a tiny little bean help me?
✮ The creativity in this retelling:
What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night?
While this book shared a lot of similarities with the original tale, its bright spot was how there was a unique twist on almost every single one of those similarities. This time it was a girl named Jaclyn who was given the beans and inadvertently grows the beanstalk. There was also a Jack in this story and I absolutely loved him....more about him below! Instead of a giant, there were monsters and they were nightmare inducing. Everything that surrounded them was a huge mystery that we got to unravel. I'm not going to say anymore than that because there were a lot of surprises along the way and it was a lot of fun seeing how it all played out!
✮ Jacyln:
“This is my destiny. This is my story.” I knew this to be my fate in every vein, bone, muscle, and in my soul.
Jaclyn was who we followed on this adventure and who was given the magic beans. But she was so much more than I thought she would be. Her father had trained her to be a fighter and I loved how fierce and brave she could be! While she had some growing up to do, we got to watch her mature as the story unfolded. She was on the right path and I loved how she always had faith in herself. So I had fun cheering her on!
✮ Jack:
“Name your price,” Jack said, panic struck in his eyes. “Take me. I beg you let her be.”
Jack was a childhood friend of Jacyln and we got to meet him as the story progressed. From the moment we met Jack, I liked him right from the start. He was mature, strong and definitely swoon worthy. Especially since he knew what he wanted, which was Jaclyn, and he had no problem speaking his mind. I loved how protective he was of her and how he could also joke so easily at the same time. He was a wonderful book boyfriend and I know a lot of people are going to be caught up in his charm!
I shuddered a breath in horror. Smoke shaped like the devil’s hand with long fingernails reached for the sky.
It had begun.
I was happy to see that this book wrapped up nicely and that there was an epilogue that jumped into the future. In that epilogue there was an element that left the possibility for a future book possible, so that idea was a lot of fun to think about! So if you're into retellings, check this book out. But I have to give a heads up that there was a lot of biblical references throughout the story. It influenced so many aspects, including the characters. I still had a lot of fun with the characters and watching how the story played out, even though I'm not the biggest fan of having that in the stories I pick up. And while this book is YA, it would be a great first step for someone coming from MG!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by Xpresso. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
September 3, 2018
I love anything Mary Ting writes, and Jaclyn and the Beanstalk was no exception. The twist she put on Jack and the Beanstalk was phenomenal. There was so much adventure in this book, so many twists and turns, I loved it all, even if she did make me cry LOL Jacklyn and the Beanstalk will take you on a journey like no other. Jaclyn not only is a strong female character from the beginning but I feel like she grows into so much more and we get to experience that with her. Demons, monsters, oh my, you really gotta give this book a try! You wont be disappointed.
September 13, 2018
You can also read my review here:
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is a gender reversed retelling of the fairytale Jack and the Beanstalk. I always enjoy retellings and have never seen one about Jack and the beanstalk, so I decided to try this one out. I thought the cover was beautiful and entangled Kinas a favorite publisher of mine as well. It was a pretty good read, despite having a bit of a rough beginning.
the beginning almost turned me off of this book completely. There was a lot of filling material and very simple dialogue that seem to have no purpose. Jaclyn also came off as extremely immature. When the author was introducing us to the characters and setting there was very little character development and the dialogue didn't help give it the characters any more depth. I want to say that the character development improved as well., This is the plot got more interesting.
The plot was very different than what I expected. I was thinking that it would be your classic retellings, just with the gender . Well it was like that, the plot also had a religious aspect to it. The Monster, or giant in the original tale, had a connection to the double our main characters were Christians. With the religious retelling him a lot of symbolism and made her an interesting tale. The very clean, Christian, young adult fairytale retelling. Overall I felt like the characters felt very flat. They were innocent and religious, but they were also boring and without much depth, which was a little disappointing. That was really cool though. Mary King took a classic fairytale and put a whole new twist on it. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a cleaner Christian, fantasy.
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is a gender reversed retelling of the fairytale Jack and the Beanstalk. I always enjoy retellings and have never seen one about Jack and the beanstalk, so I decided to try this one out. I thought the cover was beautiful and entangled Kinas a favorite publisher of mine as well. It was a pretty good read, despite having a bit of a rough beginning.
the beginning almost turned me off of this book completely. There was a lot of filling material and very simple dialogue that seem to have no purpose. Jaclyn also came off as extremely immature. When the author was introducing us to the characters and setting there was very little character development and the dialogue didn't help give it the characters any more depth. I want to say that the character development improved as well., This is the plot got more interesting.
The plot was very different than what I expected. I was thinking that it would be your classic retellings, just with the gender . Well it was like that, the plot also had a religious aspect to it. The Monster, or giant in the original tale, had a connection to the double our main characters were Christians. With the religious retelling him a lot of symbolism and made her an interesting tale. The very clean, Christian, young adult fairytale retelling. Overall I felt like the characters felt very flat. They were innocent and religious, but they were also boring and without much depth, which was a little disappointing. That was really cool though. Mary King took a classic fairytale and put a whole new twist on it. I recommend this book for anyone looking for a cleaner Christian, fantasy.
August 3, 2018
It's always awesome reading one of Mary Ting's books. New twists on a fairytale of forgiveness and unconditional love. Jacklyn and the Beanstalk is a mysterious yet suspenseful story that leaves you captivated.
December 11, 2018
If you've been reading my blog for very long, you'll know that I always look for these fairy tale retelling type of stories. And this was a very unique one! At first I was wondering just when we'd get into any of the things that were familiar about the Jack and the Beanstalk story, but it wasn't long before we got to the magic beans. Even if they were introduced in a different manner, my brain was still like, "Ah-ha! There they are!" But this story had so much more detail and back story than the original fairy tale, and I loved all of that! Now obviously the story is about Jaclyn instead of Jack, but the weird thing is, there was still a character named Jack, a main character actually. I'm not sure I liked this repetition of names, but in the end, there was a reason it kind of worked.
I liked the way little things that happened at the beginning got explained later on in more detail. Like the way that when she touched the one sword that she saw visions. Finding out who the visions were of, and just what they meant later on, really added to the story. I also loved what the magic beans did not only for the beanstalks, but for the story in the end. And you know how if you're like me, you always kind of wonder what happens after the story, after the HEA? Well you're in luck with this tale, because the author gives a few epilogues that show us just how it all goes. I will say that there was a definite religious/Christian slant to the story, and for me it was a bit much at one point. But since I liked how that fed into the background of our "giants" or monsters, I was okay with that. I haven't actually read this author until now, although I've done some promoting in the past because her books sound really good. So maybe the religious part is something that is in her stories usually? I do know that this part of the story intrigued me and made me want to do some research into the story that I only remember the basics of.
This review first appeared on Lisa Loves Literature.
I liked the way little things that happened at the beginning got explained later on in more detail. Like the way that when she touched the one sword that she saw visions. Finding out who the visions were of, and just what they meant later on, really added to the story. I also loved what the magic beans did not only for the beanstalks, but for the story in the end. And you know how if you're like me, you always kind of wonder what happens after the story, after the HEA? Well you're in luck with this tale, because the author gives a few epilogues that show us just how it all goes. I will say that there was a definite religious/Christian slant to the story, and for me it was a bit much at one point. But since I liked how that fed into the background of our "giants" or monsters, I was okay with that. I haven't actually read this author until now, although I've done some promoting in the past because her books sound really good. So maybe the religious part is something that is in her stories usually? I do know that this part of the story intrigued me and made me want to do some research into the story that I only remember the basics of.
This review first appeared on Lisa Loves Literature.
July 24, 2018
This story is captivating! From start to finish I was pulled in by the mystery that is Jaclyn. I love how this book contained action, suspense, mystery and love. To be more specific, two types of love. One type we see in mostly all books, but the second is an unconditional love. The unconditional love is intensely touching and I'm unable to describe it without spoilers. A wonderful read.
September 14, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
Not your traditional Jack and the Beanstalk story. This one is even better as we follow Jaclyn a 16 yr old girl raised pretty much in the middle of no where. She gets curious when monsters start coming around as well as some other strange things. The bartenders of the original exist but the twists are so unexpected that it really keeps you guessing. In conjunction with the best world building we get a story that is hard to put down. Great for a wide range of readers. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
Not your traditional Jack and the Beanstalk story. This one is even better as we follow Jaclyn a 16 yr old girl raised pretty much in the middle of no where. She gets curious when monsters start coming around as well as some other strange things. The bartenders of the original exist but the twists are so unexpected that it really keeps you guessing. In conjunction with the best world building we get a story that is hard to put down. Great for a wide range of readers. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
April 2, 2018
Jacklyn and the Beanstalk is a truly fantastic and utterly enchanting story that completely transforms a much loved fairytale into the stuff of legends! I was completely blown away by the magnitude of literary talent and the depth of heart with these pages. This story is nothing to be taken lightly. It is something very precious meant to be savored and treasured at every turn. What you have in your hands is a rare piece of heaven wrapped in more heart and soul then you can imagine while tied with a beautiful bow of pure love and unwavering devotion.
We have all heard the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. It’s something that most of us can recite by heart because it is ingrained within us from childhood where we allowed our hearts to be light and wistful. Now, we may trip over a few words here and there since we have relinquished our hold on this wishful story. What if this story was once based on true events, but as it was passed down through the years from one generation to another, names and places had been changed? Is that something you would believe? Would you immediately begin researching the origins of this story, or would you pass it off as mere fancy without a second though? What might people think about your life and story years from now? Would you turn into mere myth and legend as the years tick by? There is an innate desire in all of us want to be remembered and to have our life mean something. Is there any harm in entertaining an outlandish idea especially when in your heart you can’t dispute it and yet it resonates within every part of your soul? Take your first step into this world with an open mind and an open heart because you never know what you will find and how it will touch you.
The extraordinary characters that you meet throughout this journey will touch your heart in ways you can never imagine. They will show you what really matters in this life, and how to treasure those precious things. Your heart will expand and change into something you never thought possible. If words can change the world, then this book will shatter it and create a paradise so exquisite that you will never believe your own eyes.
Mary Ting is true literary master who wields words like some wield swords or money. Her power is in the light and love that flows from her heart. What you behold is something too powerful and too life changing to grasp unless you open your heart and mind. Her revelations have to be embraced and accepted with no constraints or barriers. Can you even imagine what our world would look like if we lived our lives with that same approach?! Utterly magnificent, insanely brilliant and wildly passionate are how I describe each of the books that this incredible author has brought to life. Nothing she touches remains the same for she gently molds and unashamedly loves with each breath she takes and each word she fashions.
We have all heard the story of Jack and the Beanstalk. It’s something that most of us can recite by heart because it is ingrained within us from childhood where we allowed our hearts to be light and wistful. Now, we may trip over a few words here and there since we have relinquished our hold on this wishful story. What if this story was once based on true events, but as it was passed down through the years from one generation to another, names and places had been changed? Is that something you would believe? Would you immediately begin researching the origins of this story, or would you pass it off as mere fancy without a second though? What might people think about your life and story years from now? Would you turn into mere myth and legend as the years tick by? There is an innate desire in all of us want to be remembered and to have our life mean something. Is there any harm in entertaining an outlandish idea especially when in your heart you can’t dispute it and yet it resonates within every part of your soul? Take your first step into this world with an open mind and an open heart because you never know what you will find and how it will touch you.
The extraordinary characters that you meet throughout this journey will touch your heart in ways you can never imagine. They will show you what really matters in this life, and how to treasure those precious things. Your heart will expand and change into something you never thought possible. If words can change the world, then this book will shatter it and create a paradise so exquisite that you will never believe your own eyes.
Mary Ting is true literary master who wields words like some wield swords or money. Her power is in the light and love that flows from her heart. What you behold is something too powerful and too life changing to grasp unless you open your heart and mind. Her revelations have to be embraced and accepted with no constraints or barriers. Can you even imagine what our world would look like if we lived our lives with that same approach?! Utterly magnificent, insanely brilliant and wildly passionate are how I describe each of the books that this incredible author has brought to life. Nothing she touches remains the same for she gently molds and unashamedly loves with each breath she takes and each word she fashions.
September 9, 2018
This book was definitely an interesting twist on the original tale. It’s Jack and the Beanstalk, but with a strong and courageous female lead. I guess you could also say it’s Christian fiction considering all that happened in the book. I can’t really go into that without spoiling things, though.
Anyway, I thought this book was a little weird, but also very cute. I definitely enjoyed all the flirting between Jack and Jaclyn. In the end, I give it three stars and I would recommend it to fans of Melanie Dickerson.
Anyway, I thought this book was a little weird, but also very cute. I definitely enjoyed all the flirting between Jack and Jaclyn. In the end, I give it three stars and I would recommend it to fans of Melanie Dickerson.
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December 8, 2018“This is my destiny. This is my story. I knew this to be my fate in every vein, bone, muscle, and in my soul.”
~JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK
Check out today's interview with JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK author Mary Ting!
The fairy tale lover in me always leaps for joy when a new retelling hits the market. When it's gender-bent as well with a strong female heroine? Sign me up immediately. Fans of Melanie Dickerson will love JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK by Mary Ting. It's a stand-alone, but leaves room for potential companion novels in the future. At the very least, there will be more stand-alone novels set in the world. Readers are treated to a sneak peek at REDD RIDING HOOD, the next book in Ting's Tangled Fairy Tales series, after the epilogue.
Jaclyn's father has trained her to fight over the years. When she overhears him planning to go take on some monsters, she stows away and witnesses his brutal kidnapping. The monsters from her nightmares that she'd convinced herself were fictitious are, in fact, real -- and now it's up to Jaclyn and her childhood friend Jack to save the town before it's overrun by monsters.
I love the fact that the book is centered around Jaclyn. There's also a Jack in the story, her childhood friend and crush -- and now love interest. But it is her story. This also isn't the version of Jack and the Beanstalk that readers know --though the origin of that version is talked about toward the end in a way that made me smile. The whole setup is completely original, and there is full on battle with monstrous creatures set on killing humans and taking over the realm.
The story blends fairy tale lore and the Bible, creating its own unique mythology that expands and develops the world. It was a unique mix I hadn't expected, but it worked. Jaclyn's backstory and the reason for these monstrous beasts kept me turning pages to get to the answers. I was glad to get to the meat of the story, because the beginning had a slower start -- a little more "tell" than "show" for me. Once we got to the action and the story started rolling, however, these elements that were building blocks early on came into play in ways we needed as readers to flesh out the world.
Jaclyn was by far my favorite character in the book. She had a great heart and was very family-oriented. She was impulsive and jumped into a horrible situation without thinking, but if she hadn't done so, the story would have been completely different. Jack was a little more cookie-cutter for me. Jack and Jaclyn had childhood crushes on one another, so it wasn't really a case of "insta-love" and in that sense, was believable. Jack was a little too cocky for me at times, however. There were a few times when he was just like, "You're going to be my wife." He never asked her. They weren't in a relationship. Their parents had no arrangement in place. It was a little aggravating for me, but it made Jaclyn swoon, and I know a lot of readers will be enamored with him! I would have loved more interaction between the two building up their "current" relationship and not just the past or future expectations. There were some solid moments between them, and I think every reader will be different in this area.
While JACLYN AND THE BEANSTALK isn't my favorite fairy tale retelling, it was solid and I would absolutely recommend it if you love Jack and the Beanstalk, retellings with a more original twist, gender-bent retellings, or books with a strong sense of family and faith.
September 24, 2018
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk by Mary Ting is set in the 16th century, giving a new twist on the old fairytale of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jaclyn, along with her mother and father have a quaint life in the country, until one day Jaclyn eavesdrops on a private meeting held by her father and other villagers in the dark of the night. As a backdrop, Jaclyn has been hearing haunted voices whom she thinks are demons trying to get to her soul. These nightmares become a large fear that she fights inwardly. Facing Black Mountain, monsters, with elements of mythical tales from the past, her worst fears are proven. But with determination and a profound love for family, she advances as a strong, almost princess warrior.
Jaclyn is the heroine in the story, somewhat different from most girls her age, and at the tender age of 16, she wanted to find love first before settling down into a housewife role, as expected by society. Jaclyn is independent, witty, fun and stubborn all at the same time. She knows what she wants and desires, and being more of a tomboy, prefers pants instead of dresses. Her passion for life burns ever brightly throughout the story, as readers find out that many a day was spent training on how to wield a sword with her father.
Tender words of wisdom given by her father, adventure, suspense, a dreary dark side with a curse and a twist make this a delightful story for young teens seeking their path along life. “Lead with love in your heart”, are some words to live by given by her father seemingly inspire, teaching that life is a journey wrought with trials, but good times do come like the sunshine. Knowing your heart, truth and love, all give this story a strong steeping in Christian values. With a strange take on the Roman soldier who pierced Jesus’ side and a telling of Mary Magdalene, Jaclyn finds out a long held secret in her family’s life. Still, love overcomes all evil in this wispy, fast-paced novel.
Mary Ting writes with an adventurous heart, a clever pen, introducing young readers to a classic that meets fantasy, shedding light on the family devotion and a love story that buds to completion by the end.
This short novel comes as a highly recommended read for parents and young adults that prefer fantasy fiction with a Christian-based theme and a creative perspective.
Mary Ting is one of those writers to notice and watch.
Jaclyn is the heroine in the story, somewhat different from most girls her age, and at the tender age of 16, she wanted to find love first before settling down into a housewife role, as expected by society. Jaclyn is independent, witty, fun and stubborn all at the same time. She knows what she wants and desires, and being more of a tomboy, prefers pants instead of dresses. Her passion for life burns ever brightly throughout the story, as readers find out that many a day was spent training on how to wield a sword with her father.
Tender words of wisdom given by her father, adventure, suspense, a dreary dark side with a curse and a twist make this a delightful story for young teens seeking their path along life. “Lead with love in your heart”, are some words to live by given by her father seemingly inspire, teaching that life is a journey wrought with trials, but good times do come like the sunshine. Knowing your heart, truth and love, all give this story a strong steeping in Christian values. With a strange take on the Roman soldier who pierced Jesus’ side and a telling of Mary Magdalene, Jaclyn finds out a long held secret in her family’s life. Still, love overcomes all evil in this wispy, fast-paced novel.
Mary Ting writes with an adventurous heart, a clever pen, introducing young readers to a classic that meets fantasy, shedding light on the family devotion and a love story that buds to completion by the end.
This short novel comes as a highly recommended read for parents and young adults that prefer fantasy fiction with a Christian-based theme and a creative perspective.
Mary Ting is one of those writers to notice and watch.
April 14, 2018
So many stars
I received this book for my honest review.
This book does not release until September.
Have you ever wanted to just reach inside a book and become that character? If you haven't when you start this book by the epic Author Mary Ting you so will want too. Not only does this author entice you into the pages of this amazement of a joyful, scary yet epic spun tale, she brings you into the story at first chapter.
If you have read this authors other books you will so enjoy the epitome of this amazement and joy of Jaclyn and the Beanstalk. This brazen girl knows no boundaries as the ones set before her she hurdles them without fear or interference and when obstacles or monsters get in her wayward way she becomes a force to be reckon with but, how far will she take the skills she has learned, the heart she has and a commitment that most would fear?
Come take a journey like this author has not written thus far and become entranced, invigorated and a lot scared in parts and enjoy a spin on a childhood favorite that goes beyond what we have heard, read and become entranced with. This story takes you leaps and bounds of yesterday and brings you in a book of "what ifs" so take Jacklyn's journey with her to become entranced in a new dimension of an old favorite.
Happy Sexy Reading
I received this book for my honest review.
This book does not release until September.
Have you ever wanted to just reach inside a book and become that character? If you haven't when you start this book by the epic Author Mary Ting you so will want too. Not only does this author entice you into the pages of this amazement of a joyful, scary yet epic spun tale, she brings you into the story at first chapter.
If you have read this authors other books you will so enjoy the epitome of this amazement and joy of Jaclyn and the Beanstalk. This brazen girl knows no boundaries as the ones set before her she hurdles them without fear or interference and when obstacles or monsters get in her wayward way she becomes a force to be reckon with but, how far will she take the skills she has learned, the heart she has and a commitment that most would fear?
Come take a journey like this author has not written thus far and become entranced, invigorated and a lot scared in parts and enjoy a spin on a childhood favorite that goes beyond what we have heard, read and become entranced with. This story takes you leaps and bounds of yesterday and brings you in a book of "what ifs" so take Jacklyn's journey with her to become entranced in a new dimension of an old favorite.
Happy Sexy Reading
July 25, 2018
Get ready....This is not like the original story of Jack and the Beanstalk.....It's much better!!!
The characters were amazing. I loved reading about Jaclyn and the darkness that surrounded her. She was a powerful character that kept me wanting to read more and hope she would get a happily ever after.
The story-line was phenomenal. It was mystifying, magical and suspenseful all rolled into one. I felt a real connection with this story. The storytelling of this story made it feel so real and so believable and I just couldn't put it down. I was so enchanted by the story, that I was able to leave the troubles of real life behind to delve into the life of this fiction story for a few hours. And when not reading, I would daydream about the story until I finished it Even the moral of the story was extremely heart and soul fulfilling. I was in awe at how this story of darkness brought on a new light within such a few pages. I will probably find myself going back from time to time to re-read and enjoy this magnificent story for years to come. I highly recommend this read.
The characters were amazing. I loved reading about Jaclyn and the darkness that surrounded her. She was a powerful character that kept me wanting to read more and hope she would get a happily ever after.
The story-line was phenomenal. It was mystifying, magical and suspenseful all rolled into one. I felt a real connection with this story. The storytelling of this story made it feel so real and so believable and I just couldn't put it down. I was so enchanted by the story, that I was able to leave the troubles of real life behind to delve into the life of this fiction story for a few hours. And when not reading, I would daydream about the story until I finished it Even the moral of the story was extremely heart and soul fulfilling. I was in awe at how this story of darkness brought on a new light within such a few pages. I will probably find myself going back from time to time to re-read and enjoy this magnificent story for years to come. I highly recommend this read.
April 18, 2018
I was hired to proofread this book. The only aspects of the story that I influenced were spelling and grammar. If you feel that my connection to the book makes my review untrustworthy, so be it, but this is my honest review.
I am a big fan of fairytale retellings, so I was excited when Ms. Ting told me about this book. Although I'm not typically overly fond of religious books, that aspect in this story worked really well and didn't feel overbearing to me. The way Ms. Ting wove together religion and fairytale was inspired.
The rest of my review will be available on my blog after release day.
I am a big fan of fairytale retellings, so I was excited when Ms. Ting told me about this book. Although I'm not typically overly fond of religious books, that aspect in this story worked really well and didn't feel overbearing to me. The way Ms. Ting wove together religion and fairytale was inspired.
The rest of my review will be available on my blog after release day.
August 6, 2022
⚜️ Book Title - Jaclyn and the Beanstalk
⚜️ Author - Mary Ting
⚜️ Rating - ⭐️⭐️
⚜️ Some Genre/Themes/Tropes: Young Adult Fiction, Religion; Fantasy and Adventure.
I received an Ebook copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is my honest review.
The idea of flipping the ‘Jack’ gender was intriguing to me. I enjoy a retelling of old stories. As for Jaclyn and the Beanstalk, it is definitely Young Adult with religious themes that make up majority of the story plot.
Jaclyn is a 16 year old heroine, who is brave, fierce and determined. The problem was she wasn’t an overly complicated character and felt a bit bland.
The writing was a bit abstract as well. I understand the author was trying to capture the speech and dialect of that time period and place but it made reading a bit clunky causing a disconnect emotionally from the story.
This book might be up your alley if you are looking for fairytale retelling that is something quick to read and only surface level deep.
I want to say thank you to the author and publisher for the Ebook.
⚜️ Author - Mary Ting
⚜️ Rating - ⭐️⭐️
⚜️ Some Genre/Themes/Tropes: Young Adult Fiction, Religion; Fantasy and Adventure.
I received an Ebook copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is my honest review.
The idea of flipping the ‘Jack’ gender was intriguing to me. I enjoy a retelling of old stories. As for Jaclyn and the Beanstalk, it is definitely Young Adult with religious themes that make up majority of the story plot.
Jaclyn is a 16 year old heroine, who is brave, fierce and determined. The problem was she wasn’t an overly complicated character and felt a bit bland.
The writing was a bit abstract as well. I understand the author was trying to capture the speech and dialect of that time period and place but it made reading a bit clunky causing a disconnect emotionally from the story.
This book might be up your alley if you are looking for fairytale retelling that is something quick to read and only surface level deep.
I want to say thank you to the author and publisher for the Ebook.
August 21, 2022
First of all thank you Katieandbreypa for giving a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The book is a retelling of Jack and the beanstalk. It is fast paced and easy to read. On this version there is a Jack, yet the main heroine is Jaclyn. She has lived her hole life away from villages and trained with her father. Unlike other ladies she knows her way with swords and other weapons. For a while now she has been seeing and hearing monsters. But she never expected them to be real.
One day she finds herself on a quest to meet her fate. She must face the monsters she never thought real. Find strength inside herself to accept who she is. All of this with the help of three beans given to her by a strange woman. Will it be enough to face the monsters that hunts her?
Overall I can say it was an interesting story with nice twists. A great book for any fan of retelling and adventure.
What I liked
face-pace
Plot
Retelling
Strong FMC
What I didn’t like
Religion topics
Relationships among the characters.
The book is a retelling of Jack and the beanstalk. It is fast paced and easy to read. On this version there is a Jack, yet the main heroine is Jaclyn. She has lived her hole life away from villages and trained with her father. Unlike other ladies she knows her way with swords and other weapons. For a while now she has been seeing and hearing monsters. But she never expected them to be real.
One day she finds herself on a quest to meet her fate. She must face the monsters she never thought real. Find strength inside herself to accept who she is. All of this with the help of three beans given to her by a strange woman. Will it be enough to face the monsters that hunts her?
Overall I can say it was an interesting story with nice twists. A great book for any fan of retelling and adventure.
What I liked
face-pace
Plot
Retelling
Strong FMC
What I didn’t like
Religion topics
Relationships among the characters.
August 14, 2018
I love anything Mary Ting writes, and Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is no exception. There was so much adventure in this book, so many twists and turns. Jaclyn and the Beanstalk will take you on a journey that makes you feel like you are in the story.
You won't be disappointed she brings you into the story at the very beginning.
Mary has done it again. This book is a page turner. I couldn’t put it down.
You won't be disappointed she brings you into the story at the very beginning.
Mary has done it again. This book is a page turner. I couldn’t put it down.
August 31, 2023
I don't think I've ever read a Jack and the Beanstalk retelling before, so this would be my first. And while I thought the book was interesting at times, I did have a hard time really getting into the story. I'm not really sure what it was about this book. I enjoyed parts of it, but not all of it. And that makes no sense, but that's the best way I can describe it. It also seemed like it should have been a short read and took me longer than expected to read it.
September 25, 2018
One of my favorite genres is reimagined stories. I love when someone takes hold of a classic fairy tale, and puts a spin on it, such as telling Cinderella's story from the perspective of the stepsisters; or learning that the Wicked Witch wasn't actually wicked, but misunderstood. As a feminist, I was particularly intrigued by the idea of a female-centric retelling of the classic Jack and the Beanstalk. I had strong hopes for this story.
My hopes were dashed away, much as magic beans were dashed to the ground, only mine didn't sprout and grow overnight.
Jaclyn is, to be sure, a heroine in her own right. She is surrounded and supported by strong men who back her up, but the mantra that keeps her strong within is something she learned from her mother women have their own kind of bravery.
Unfortunately, Jaclyn's strength is the only redeeming quality to be found in this novel. The storyline with monsters was bizarre. The author really needed to come up with a synonym for the word "monsters," or at least a better word to describe the creatures. The power that that word usually carries became so dilated that by the time I was only a third of the way through the book, I was rolling my eyes at nearly every mention of them. The monsters' backstory was awkward as well, based in Christian mythos, and quite out of place in a fantasy/fairy tale.
The writing was flat. There's no other way to say it. While Jaclyn was a strong character, she lacked personality, as did all other characters. The author seemed unnecessarily preoccupied with using period language that she made the narrative completely uncomfortable to read. It was far too formal, and resulted in an inability to sympathize with any of the characters. If I'm completely honest, it read like a rough draft, proofread by a college roommate, and then self-published without the benefit of either a mentor or an editor.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
My hopes were dashed away, much as magic beans were dashed to the ground, only mine didn't sprout and grow overnight.
Jaclyn is, to be sure, a heroine in her own right. She is surrounded and supported by strong men who back her up, but the mantra that keeps her strong within is something she learned from her mother women have their own kind of bravery.
Unfortunately, Jaclyn's strength is the only redeeming quality to be found in this novel. The storyline with monsters was bizarre. The author really needed to come up with a synonym for the word "monsters," or at least a better word to describe the creatures. The power that that word usually carries became so dilated that by the time I was only a third of the way through the book, I was rolling my eyes at nearly every mention of them. The monsters' backstory was awkward as well, based in Christian mythos, and quite out of place in a fantasy/fairy tale.
The writing was flat. There's no other way to say it. While Jaclyn was a strong character, she lacked personality, as did all other characters. The author seemed unnecessarily preoccupied with using period language that she made the narrative completely uncomfortable to read. It was far too formal, and resulted in an inability to sympathize with any of the characters. If I'm completely honest, it read like a rough draft, proofread by a college roommate, and then self-published without the benefit of either a mentor or an editor.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
September 7, 2022
Jaclyn and The Beanstalk by Mary Ting is a novel retelling of Jack and The Beanstalk. Jaclyn lives with her parents in the middle of nowhere, doing chores and Sword training with her father. Nightmares of screaming monsters plague her. One evening she heard her father and men discussing monsters and heard them making plans to look into them. The next day Jaclyn and her family went to town, where an older woman gave her three beans. The following day when her father leaves, she stowed away. When three giant monsters take her father and two other men and head up Black Mountain, Jaclyn returns home to notify her mother and the other families. Jaclyn is left with a choice, to put her father's life in the hands of others or follow her heart and set out to save him. She climbs Black Mountain, and when she falls, she finds herself being whisked away to the top by one of the beans she dropped. Once there, she sees no signs of the monsters but eventually runs into Jack, one of the other captive means sons that ran away to save his father, knowing the town would be slow to respond, if at all. Who or what are the monsters, and will they be able to keep the men?
This book was an unexpected delight to read. Going in, I expected some retelling of Jack and The Beanstalk from a feminist perspective. I got that and a whole lot more. This story pulls from the original story, but once she's up that beanstalk, that's where it ends. The plot is original, creative, and unexpected. I love how there is realism in this work despite the fairytale origins. Jaclyn was given specific allowances due to being an only child raised in the middle of nowhere, her parents allowed her to wear boy's clothing, and her father trained her to use a sword. She has a kind and beautiful heart, seen throughout the book in her interactions with others. There's lots of suspense and action in this book regarding the monsters and her father's survival, but she never gives up hope. Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is a story of faith and hope. There's a quote in the book I loved "women have their type of bravery." This quote calls to mind that behind every brave person that there is someone behind them standing strong and helping to hold them up! I must tread carefully so as not to disclose any spoilers, but this book was an unexpected pleasure.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. Despite the fairytale roots, this story stands well on its own. Despite the magic in the story, the characters are genuine and authentic, with emotions and actions that are easily relatable. The book has it all; action, suspense, surprises, courage, hope, faith, violence, love, and romance. I recommend this book to teens and young adult Christians that enjoy fantasy books, retellings, and tales of courage.
This book was an unexpected delight to read. Going in, I expected some retelling of Jack and The Beanstalk from a feminist perspective. I got that and a whole lot more. This story pulls from the original story, but once she's up that beanstalk, that's where it ends. The plot is original, creative, and unexpected. I love how there is realism in this work despite the fairytale origins. Jaclyn was given specific allowances due to being an only child raised in the middle of nowhere, her parents allowed her to wear boy's clothing, and her father trained her to use a sword. She has a kind and beautiful heart, seen throughout the book in her interactions with others. There's lots of suspense and action in this book regarding the monsters and her father's survival, but she never gives up hope. Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is a story of faith and hope. There's a quote in the book I loved "women have their type of bravery." This quote calls to mind that behind every brave person that there is someone behind them standing strong and helping to hold them up! I must tread carefully so as not to disclose any spoilers, but this book was an unexpected pleasure.
I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars. Despite the fairytale roots, this story stands well on its own. Despite the magic in the story, the characters are genuine and authentic, with emotions and actions that are easily relatable. The book has it all; action, suspense, surprises, courage, hope, faith, violence, love, and romance. I recommend this book to teens and young adult Christians that enjoy fantasy books, retellings, and tales of courage.
December 12, 2018
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review. Everything that follows is my opinion and mine alone. There was no compensation for this review.
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is a YA retelling of the fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk. I requested to be a part of this blog tour and to review the book because of the gender role switch as well as being a retelling. There aren't many Jack and the Beanstalk retellings out there, guys. It was new and refreshing and I was intrigued.
That said, the first thing I noticed when I started reading was the heavy influence of Christianity. Now, I myself am not Christian. You would think that I would begin to feel pressured or upset about what was going on in the story.
I wasn't.
On the contrary, the religious tone to the book acted as a vehicle for the main plot. If anything, the Christian fiction moniker is a subgenre, just as the romance took a backseat for the rest of the story.
The religious aspect made sense given the time period of the book. And, even though every character could be assumed as Christian, it is the "good man/woman" who is celebrated and not the fervor of ones personal beliefs. It was the "good person" and the quote "Every woman has her own bravery" that was pushed over and over again to show the audience what this book was about:
To be good to your fellow man is the key to happiness and no matter what others think, no matter if you are female or not, there is a certain bravery that only you possess.
I could go on to the romance, but I don't think it needs more than these few sentences. Jack and Jaclyn work well together. They don't take over or fight for dominance and are a true partnership. There is a part in the end where Jack teases Jaclyn about her hurting the hand that will provide for her and she states simply that she can provide for herself. Too often a YA or romance book has a male lead encourage the aspect of being the provider and can seem to almost push that thought.
I found it refreshing and wonderful that these two were able to cultivate a partnership.
In all, the book has a strong message and one I try to display in my day to day life. I loved that I had an emotional response to the characters and situations. I felt encouraged that, despite not being Christian, I am still valuable as a good person. And, that here is another example of the type of relationship a person should strive to have.
I definitely recommend this to people who love retellings.
Final Rating: 4/5
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is a YA retelling of the fairy tale Jack and the Beanstalk. I requested to be a part of this blog tour and to review the book because of the gender role switch as well as being a retelling. There aren't many Jack and the Beanstalk retellings out there, guys. It was new and refreshing and I was intrigued.
That said, the first thing I noticed when I started reading was the heavy influence of Christianity. Now, I myself am not Christian. You would think that I would begin to feel pressured or upset about what was going on in the story.
I wasn't.
On the contrary, the religious tone to the book acted as a vehicle for the main plot. If anything, the Christian fiction moniker is a subgenre, just as the romance took a backseat for the rest of the story.
The religious aspect made sense given the time period of the book. And, even though every character could be assumed as Christian, it is the "good man/woman" who is celebrated and not the fervor of ones personal beliefs. It was the "good person" and the quote "Every woman has her own bravery" that was pushed over and over again to show the audience what this book was about:
To be good to your fellow man is the key to happiness and no matter what others think, no matter if you are female or not, there is a certain bravery that only you possess.
I could go on to the romance, but I don't think it needs more than these few sentences. Jack and Jaclyn work well together. They don't take over or fight for dominance and are a true partnership. There is a part in the end where Jack teases Jaclyn about her hurting the hand that will provide for her and she states simply that she can provide for herself. Too often a YA or romance book has a male lead encourage the aspect of being the provider and can seem to almost push that thought.
I found it refreshing and wonderful that these two were able to cultivate a partnership.
In all, the book has a strong message and one I try to display in my day to day life. I loved that I had an emotional response to the characters and situations. I felt encouraged that, despite not being Christian, I am still valuable as a good person. And, that here is another example of the type of relationship a person should strive to have.
I definitely recommend this to people who love retellings.
Final Rating: 4/5
December 16, 2018
Jaclyn loves both of her parents, but she won't tell them that she has dreams about monsters. These dreams attack her, cause her to see things that she never wanted to see and cause her immense pain. She doesn't know why she has these dreams though and just asks her father to teach her how to fight in case something happens. Then, her father and his friends are taken by the monsters, and it is up to Jaclyn to save them.
Even though Jaclyn was sixteen years old, this book could still relate to younger YA readers. Some parts of the story were a bit suggestive, but other than that, she actually acted more 13 or 14 to me than 16. I especially thought this when she was so connected to her parents, and obeyed them in almost everything, even when she wanted to go out and see the world. This was a great fantasy novel, but I would recommend that if you read it, just age the character down a few years in certain scenes to make it more realistic.
I love how Jaclyn's father never babied her for being a girl. He was willing to teach his only daughter how to fight, and Jaclyn is willing to learn. The only person who wasn't completely on board with the plan was Jaclyn's mother, but even she gave in eventually.
I also liked Jack and Jaclyn's small romance in the story. It wasn't the main focus of the story, but it was sweet, and I am a sucker for childhood friends-to-lovers books. This was definitely a good romance for Jaclyn's type of character! Jack was just the right amount of assertive and caring, even though they hadn't met for many years.
Overall, this book had great characters and a great plot, even though the plot felt a bit rushed. Jaclyn was a unique main character who had a healthy teenage romance, and I only wish to have been able to learn a bit more about her without flashing from scene to scene. This might have eliminated the small issue with her seeming a tad younger than her age in certain scenes. I can't wait to read the next book in this retold fairy tales series!
I would recommend this book to lovers of YA fantasy novels.
I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
Even though Jaclyn was sixteen years old, this book could still relate to younger YA readers. Some parts of the story were a bit suggestive, but other than that, she actually acted more 13 or 14 to me than 16. I especially thought this when she was so connected to her parents, and obeyed them in almost everything, even when she wanted to go out and see the world. This was a great fantasy novel, but I would recommend that if you read it, just age the character down a few years in certain scenes to make it more realistic.
I love how Jaclyn's father never babied her for being a girl. He was willing to teach his only daughter how to fight, and Jaclyn is willing to learn. The only person who wasn't completely on board with the plan was Jaclyn's mother, but even she gave in eventually.
I also liked Jack and Jaclyn's small romance in the story. It wasn't the main focus of the story, but it was sweet, and I am a sucker for childhood friends-to-lovers books. This was definitely a good romance for Jaclyn's type of character! Jack was just the right amount of assertive and caring, even though they hadn't met for many years.
Overall, this book had great characters and a great plot, even though the plot felt a bit rushed. Jaclyn was a unique main character who had a healthy teenage romance, and I only wish to have been able to learn a bit more about her without flashing from scene to scene. This might have eliminated the small issue with her seeming a tad younger than her age in certain scenes. I can't wait to read the next book in this retold fairy tales series!
I would recommend this book to lovers of YA fantasy novels.
I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.
September 4, 2018
This re-telling of Jack and the Beanstalk is beautifully done. The bones of that classic fairy tale are faintly evident throughout, but Ms. Ting made it more than a child, magic, and monsters.
In these pages she brought to life a girl who's strong-willed, strong-minded, and courageous. She loves passionately and deeply. Her loyalty is unbreakable. She finds the strength to do the impossible and discovers a bond deeper than friendship with a boy who's always been there for her but who she has never dared reveal her true feelings to. They battle monsters and darkness to save the day.
The romance between Jaclyn and her best friend Jack was lovely in that it wasn't the dominant point of this story. It's subtle and grows as they journey to save their loved ones, every now and then showing it's power without taking away from their circumstances.
One aspect that did surprise me was the use of Christian messages in this story. Christianity and fairy tales don't usually go hand-in-hand, usually because fairy tales involve magic, a practice frowned upon in the Christian religion. And, yet, it didn't detract at all for me. The messages and the lessons learned seemed to go hand-in-hand, co-dependents to giving the story body and depth I feel it would have lacked otherwise.
Ms. Ting is a new-to-me author. Her writing is engaging, and the characters of this re-telling are delightful twists to the fairy tale I grew up hearing. I hope the ending of this story isn't just a tease but an actual gateway to another tale to follow. It's one I hope to read if Ms. Ting feels so inclined to follow through. Regardless, I look forward to reading more by Ms. Ting. I'm sure there are more worlds she's created that are waiting for me, and others, to be discovered.
Received from publisher for an honest review
In these pages she brought to life a girl who's strong-willed, strong-minded, and courageous. She loves passionately and deeply. Her loyalty is unbreakable. She finds the strength to do the impossible and discovers a bond deeper than friendship with a boy who's always been there for her but who she has never dared reveal her true feelings to. They battle monsters and darkness to save the day.
The romance between Jaclyn and her best friend Jack was lovely in that it wasn't the dominant point of this story. It's subtle and grows as they journey to save their loved ones, every now and then showing it's power without taking away from their circumstances.
One aspect that did surprise me was the use of Christian messages in this story. Christianity and fairy tales don't usually go hand-in-hand, usually because fairy tales involve magic, a practice frowned upon in the Christian religion. And, yet, it didn't detract at all for me. The messages and the lessons learned seemed to go hand-in-hand, co-dependents to giving the story body and depth I feel it would have lacked otherwise.
Ms. Ting is a new-to-me author. Her writing is engaging, and the characters of this re-telling are delightful twists to the fairy tale I grew up hearing. I hope the ending of this story isn't just a tease but an actual gateway to another tale to follow. It's one I hope to read if Ms. Ting feels so inclined to follow through. Regardless, I look forward to reading more by Ms. Ting. I'm sure there are more worlds she's created that are waiting for me, and others, to be discovered.
Received from publisher for an honest review
August 18, 2022
"I may be a woman, but women have their own bravery."
"Evil could never conquer good. As long as there was love, evil would be overcome. Love was the truest savior. I believed it in my heart to be true."
Goodreads Blurb: What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night…
Sixteen-year-old Jaclyn looks up to her father. An honest man who once fought for the king, he now teaches Jaclyn how to use her wits—and her sword. But he has a secret. And his secret may have a connection to the one thing Jaclyn is hiding from him.
Upon hearing “monsters” are terrorizing the small villages around Black Mountain, Jaclyn’s father and his friends head out to hunt them … but they don’t return.
Armed only with her sword and three magic beans—a gift from a mysterious old woman—Jaclyn sets out for Black Mountain to save her father. On her climb, one bean drops and grows into a beanstalk, catching her when she falls. She isn’t the only one that takes the ride. Jack, her childhood friend and secret crush, is following her. Jaclyn and Jack will have to work together to save not only their fathers, but the townspeople the beasts plan to lay waste to before it’s too late.
🌱I received this book in exchange for an honest review from @katieandbreypa and I really enjoyed the premise and the characters, and the world building! I haven't read many or any retellings before so I was really excited to read this one, However as some of you may have seen in my past reviews I do not think Fantasy and christian beliefs should co-mingle, not everyone can pull off Narnia, and it was too much for me. Aside from that this was a good retelling and I think the Author did a great job of tying things up at the end.
I give Jaclyn and the Beanstalk by Mary Ting ⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Evil could never conquer good. As long as there was love, evil would be overcome. Love was the truest savior. I believed it in my heart to be true."
Goodreads Blurb: What fate awaits a girl who hears monsters at night…
Sixteen-year-old Jaclyn looks up to her father. An honest man who once fought for the king, he now teaches Jaclyn how to use her wits—and her sword. But he has a secret. And his secret may have a connection to the one thing Jaclyn is hiding from him.
Upon hearing “monsters” are terrorizing the small villages around Black Mountain, Jaclyn’s father and his friends head out to hunt them … but they don’t return.
Armed only with her sword and three magic beans—a gift from a mysterious old woman—Jaclyn sets out for Black Mountain to save her father. On her climb, one bean drops and grows into a beanstalk, catching her when she falls. She isn’t the only one that takes the ride. Jack, her childhood friend and secret crush, is following her. Jaclyn and Jack will have to work together to save not only their fathers, but the townspeople the beasts plan to lay waste to before it’s too late.
🌱I received this book in exchange for an honest review from @katieandbreypa and I really enjoyed the premise and the characters, and the world building! I haven't read many or any retellings before so I was really excited to read this one, However as some of you may have seen in my past reviews I do not think Fantasy and christian beliefs should co-mingle, not everyone can pull off Narnia, and it was too much for me. Aside from that this was a good retelling and I think the Author did a great job of tying things up at the end.
I give Jaclyn and the Beanstalk by Mary Ting ⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 20, 2022
Every night, Jacklyn dreams about monsters. They haunt her, visiting every corner of her dreams. But such creatures aren’t real, right ? One evening, the teenager catches her father talking with other men about monsters’ attacks. Armed with a sword and three beans given to her by a strange old woman, she decides to know more about the threat, following her father secretly.
Jacklyn is different from the other teenage girls of her town : trained by her father at an early age, she knows how to use weapons. She is kinda tomboy, enjoying helping her parents on the farm and of course, spending time with her dad. We feel they have a very strong connection, and it is that relationship that is gonna be the link throughout the story. Jacklyn is a courageous and intrepid young woman : ignoring her fears and dangers, she doesn’t hesitate to follow the monsters‘ tracks to save her father and his friends. Very soon we discover that Jacklyn is special, how special I let you read the novel to discover it. But she is meant for something big, far bigger than she ever expected.
I was at the beginning dubious about the religious aspect that Mary Ting incorporated in her story. I mean it is really not something I would expect in a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, but as I proceeded my read, I was positively surprised about how well it works with the rest of the story. Jacklyn and the Beanstalk is a quite good retelling where we recognize the key elements of the original tale : three beans and an unexpected upper world.
If you love strong female characters, fantasy and tale retellings, I think you will enjoy Mary Ting’s novel. Jacklyn and the Beanstalk is an enjoyable fast read that will lead you into an extraordinary adventure.
Jacklyn is different from the other teenage girls of her town : trained by her father at an early age, she knows how to use weapons. She is kinda tomboy, enjoying helping her parents on the farm and of course, spending time with her dad. We feel they have a very strong connection, and it is that relationship that is gonna be the link throughout the story. Jacklyn is a courageous and intrepid young woman : ignoring her fears and dangers, she doesn’t hesitate to follow the monsters‘ tracks to save her father and his friends. Very soon we discover that Jacklyn is special, how special I let you read the novel to discover it. But she is meant for something big, far bigger than she ever expected.
I was at the beginning dubious about the religious aspect that Mary Ting incorporated in her story. I mean it is really not something I would expect in a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, but as I proceeded my read, I was positively surprised about how well it works with the rest of the story. Jacklyn and the Beanstalk is a quite good retelling where we recognize the key elements of the original tale : three beans and an unexpected upper world.
If you love strong female characters, fantasy and tale retellings, I think you will enjoy Mary Ting’s novel. Jacklyn and the Beanstalk is an enjoyable fast read that will lead you into an extraordinary adventure.
September 4, 2018
Fans of fairy tale retellings like Snow White and the Huntsman will love Mary Ting's gender-bent Jaqlyn and the Beanstalk. Not only do we have a believable heroine in Jaqlyn, who prefers trousers to skirts and sword practice to needlework, thank you very much. But our heroine's loyalty to her family, especially her heroic father, lay the groundwork for one epic quest.
From the beginning, Jaqlyn is plagued by nightmares of demons. She attempts to lighten her dark thoughts by entertaining her family with made-up fairy tales. Never could she imagine the fairy tales are real, or her role in the coming challenges. Ting grounds her novel in the distant and fixed past, a time of deeply rooted religion and sinister superstitions. Life in her woodland home with only her mother and father for company is enough to satisfy Jaqlyn, who has no intentions to marry, only live a free and happy life. Until she stumbles upon a mysterious weapon hidden in the barn and begins to unravel her parents' pasts. Here is where Jaqlyn's journey truly begins.
Before you start to wonder about the original Jack, of former beanstalk fame, never fear. Jack and Jaqlyn grew up together, but haven't seen each other since they were children. I loved how Ting brought familiar elements and characters like Jack and the beans and crafted something more exciting and fresh. Forget everything you think you know about giants and giant slayers. Prepare to enter a mythic past of epic proportions, led by a girl who is much more than she appears. Her heart and faith will see her through to the end, but a little skill with blade and lance can't hurt. ;)
From the beginning, Jaqlyn is plagued by nightmares of demons. She attempts to lighten her dark thoughts by entertaining her family with made-up fairy tales. Never could she imagine the fairy tales are real, or her role in the coming challenges. Ting grounds her novel in the distant and fixed past, a time of deeply rooted religion and sinister superstitions. Life in her woodland home with only her mother and father for company is enough to satisfy Jaqlyn, who has no intentions to marry, only live a free and happy life. Until she stumbles upon a mysterious weapon hidden in the barn and begins to unravel her parents' pasts. Here is where Jaqlyn's journey truly begins.
Before you start to wonder about the original Jack, of former beanstalk fame, never fear. Jack and Jaqlyn grew up together, but haven't seen each other since they were children. I loved how Ting brought familiar elements and characters like Jack and the beans and crafted something more exciting and fresh. Forget everything you think you know about giants and giant slayers. Prepare to enter a mythic past of epic proportions, led by a girl who is much more than she appears. Her heart and faith will see her through to the end, but a little skill with blade and lance can't hurt. ;)
September 22, 2022
Book review :
💗 This book is a magical tale of adventure, love and family. This is a truly fantastic and utterly enchanting story that completely transforms a much loved fairytale into the stuff of legends! I was completely blown away by the magnitude of literary talent and the depth of heart with these pages.
💗 Jaclyn is independent, witty, fun and stubborn all at the same time. She knows what she wants and desires, and being more of a tomboy, prefers pants instead of dresses. Her passion for life burns ever brightly throughout the story, as readers find out that many a day was spent training on how to wield a sword with her father.
💗The extraordinary characters that are introduced throughout this journey touched my heart in ways I have never imagined. They ponder on what really matters in this life, and how to treasure those precious things. My heart expanded and change into something I never thought possible. If words can change the world, then this book will shatter it and create a paradise so exquisite that one will never believe his own eyes.
💗Quote from the book :
“This is my destiny. This is my story. I knew this to be my fate in every vein, bone, muscle, and in my soul.”
“Name your price,” Jack said, panic struck in his eyes. “Take me. I beg you let her be.”
💗I loved reading this book immensely and learnt a lot. I would recommend this book to all. I am thankful to @katieandbreypa for giving me this book in return of an honest review.
💗Happy Reading!
💗 This book is a magical tale of adventure, love and family. This is a truly fantastic and utterly enchanting story that completely transforms a much loved fairytale into the stuff of legends! I was completely blown away by the magnitude of literary talent and the depth of heart with these pages.
💗 Jaclyn is independent, witty, fun and stubborn all at the same time. She knows what she wants and desires, and being more of a tomboy, prefers pants instead of dresses. Her passion for life burns ever brightly throughout the story, as readers find out that many a day was spent training on how to wield a sword with her father.
💗The extraordinary characters that are introduced throughout this journey touched my heart in ways I have never imagined. They ponder on what really matters in this life, and how to treasure those precious things. My heart expanded and change into something I never thought possible. If words can change the world, then this book will shatter it and create a paradise so exquisite that one will never believe his own eyes.
💗Quote from the book :
“This is my destiny. This is my story. I knew this to be my fate in every vein, bone, muscle, and in my soul.”
“Name your price,” Jack said, panic struck in his eyes. “Take me. I beg you let her be.”
💗I loved reading this book immensely and learnt a lot. I would recommend this book to all. I am thankful to @katieandbreypa for giving me this book in return of an honest review.
💗Happy Reading!
August 28, 2022
So, I’m a huge sucker for fairytale retellings. Mary Ting’s Jaclyn and the Beanstalk is no exception.
This book was a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, but with a twist. Jack, while in the story and is very lovable, is not our MC. It’s Jaclyn. And she’s pretty kick arse. Strong-willed and stubborn, she sticks up for herself and does what she believes is right, even if it frustrates you at times. While there are beanstalks, the giants are quite what you’d imagine them to be. It does get quite dark, with some descriptive morbid scenes. The story also had a religious undertone, highlighting love and forgiveness. Don’t worry, non-religious folk - it was really well done. There is no spice for those wondering - just a nice, clean romance.
The reason why I gave it 4 stars is because the beginning was a bit of a slog. It felt like there was quite a bit of fluff until we got to the actual plot. Once we got there, it got exponentially better. I was especially hooked the last 100-150 pages. The sentence structuring was also short and simple at times, which was a bit jarring when other sentences had beautifully descriptive and colorful words that you wouldn’t expect. However, those were my only complaints. I would’ve appreciated some spice, but I completely understand why it was written the way it was.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next installment in the series!
This book was a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, but with a twist. Jack, while in the story and is very lovable, is not our MC. It’s Jaclyn. And she’s pretty kick arse. Strong-willed and stubborn, she sticks up for herself and does what she believes is right, even if it frustrates you at times. While there are beanstalks, the giants are quite what you’d imagine them to be. It does get quite dark, with some descriptive morbid scenes. The story also had a religious undertone, highlighting love and forgiveness. Don’t worry, non-religious folk - it was really well done. There is no spice for those wondering - just a nice, clean romance.
The reason why I gave it 4 stars is because the beginning was a bit of a slog. It felt like there was quite a bit of fluff until we got to the actual plot. Once we got there, it got exponentially better. I was especially hooked the last 100-150 pages. The sentence structuring was also short and simple at times, which was a bit jarring when other sentences had beautifully descriptive and colorful words that you wouldn’t expect. However, those were my only complaints. I would’ve appreciated some spice, but I completely understand why it was written the way it was.
Overall, I enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next installment in the series!
December 15, 2018
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk by Mary Ting turned the tale of 'Jack and the Beanstalk’ on its head. Jaclyn lives with her mum and dad on their isolated farm. She knows how to wield a sword, thanks to her father. When he, and several companions, set out to take care of some monsters terrorising the region, they don't return. With her friend Jack, Jaclyn sets off to find and free her father.
Though it started off a bit in the slow side with setup, I really enjoyed once Jaclyn was off to free her father. This was a great story for showing women can be every bit as brave and valorous as men. A little more description would have been nice. Details to help further anchor a scene and weave the word-magic. Make no mistake, though! This book is well worth checking out, especially for those who enjoy rewoven fairytales. My only big grumble is all the Christian angle, which I wasn't expecting. The tale is set in the 1600s though, and that is a time when such things would have been prevalent. It adds to the twist of things, so I will refrain from spoiling. I just wished the synopsis/ blurb had hired at that angle. I would have gone into my reading with different expectations.
***Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review. This book was reviewed for the JBN Blog Tours.
Though it started off a bit in the slow side with setup, I really enjoyed once Jaclyn was off to free her father. This was a great story for showing women can be every bit as brave and valorous as men. A little more description would have been nice. Details to help further anchor a scene and weave the word-magic. Make no mistake, though! This book is well worth checking out, especially for those who enjoy rewoven fairytales. My only big grumble is all the Christian angle, which I wasn't expecting. The tale is set in the 1600s though, and that is a time when such things would have been prevalent. It adds to the twist of things, so I will refrain from spoiling. I just wished the synopsis/ blurb had hired at that angle. I would have gone into my reading with different expectations.
***Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review. This book was reviewed for the JBN Blog Tours.
December 6, 2018
Jaclyn and the Beanstalk was my first book by Mary Ting, but it will not be my last! A very enjoyable adventure with excellent pacing and character development. When we meet Jaclyn, she is a very sweet and devoted daughter. While she seems content to live with her mother and father in an isolated area, we also see her longing for adventure. That opportunity comes when she overhears her father and some men talking about monsters they must battle. In a form of mild rebellion, Jaclyn follows the men and this leads to the main part of the story where we learn what the men are facing. I'll stop there to avoid giving anything away, but this story surprised me with its very original plot twists to the Jack and the Beanstalk tale. I loved Jaclyn as a character, and Jack, her childhood friend, was the perfect counterpart to her, bringing flirtation and humor. Probably my favorite part of this book was the strong message of courage, faith and forgiveness, very valuable lessons in our modern culture of casting blame and ostracizing others. This book is a clean read and suitable for young teens through adults. I give it a solid four stars and recommend it to those who love adventure books and fairytale retellings.
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