Sugar Plum Scary

A Cozy Fairy Tale Retelling (Mister Magigi's Magical Emporium)

By: Jeannie Wycherley

Narrated by: Simon Maeder

Take a pair of ballet shoes, a faery queen, and a disgruntled mage and what do you get?

A grim time in the Kingdom of Sweets.

Or so says the owner of the Magical Emporium, Mister Magigi, a monkey wizard long renowned for spinning a good yarn.

In Sugar Plum Scary, he recounts the story of a beautiful, intelligent, and benevolent queen, adored by all of her subjects. Except for one.

And as Mister Magigi explains, while Queen Sugar Plum imagines she’ll live happily ever after, that one man is determined to make her life a misery.

Loosely based on characters from The Nutcracker, you’ll love this cozy fairy-tale retelling. It’s a story of love, heartbreak, and vengeance from the best-selling author of the Wonky Inn books. Huddle closer to the fire, grab a cuppa, light a candle, and listen entranced as Mister Magigi casts his spell on you.

©2020 Jeannie Wycherley (P)2020 Jeannie Wycherley

Good interpretation of the The Nutcracker

Scary is one word for it! Sugar and spice and all things nice it was not. I mean it did begin that way but I found myself educated on the varied sides of vengeance. As a girl raised on the books The Wishing chair Adventures and the likes of the Grims fairy tales way too scary, it was an eye opener.
In conclusion I would say it is a good interpretation of the The Nutcracker by Jeannie Wycherley and well narrated by Simon Maeder

Interesting nutcracker variation.

Narration was very clear and easy to understand. I very much enjoyed the first part of the book and loved the main characters as well as the lovely setting.

I really didn’t enjoy the “scary” part of the story and the character that made it so. That part wasn’t cozy enough for me!

Enjoyable

It’s a delightful mix of magic, mischief, and heart, and the narration was well done.

A Magical and Haunting Tale

“Sugar Plum Scary” is an enchanting story-within-a-story that weaves together elements of love, loss, revenge, and redemption in a way that feels both fresh and timeless. Loosely inspired by The Nutcracker, this cozy fairy tale retelling offers a unique twist that draws you in from the very first chapter and keeps you captivated until the end. Jeannie Wycherley’s writing is rich and imaginative, creating a world that feels magical yet tinged with darkness. The layered narrative adds depth without ever becoming confusing, and the emotional beats are beautifully handled. It’s a tale that lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished listening. Simon Maeder’s narration is outstanding. His performance brings every character to life with warmth and nuance, perfectly matching the tone of the story. The pacing, clarity, and expressiveness make this audiobook a joy to experience. If you’re looking for an imaginative listen that blends whimsy with a touch of mystery and heartfelt emotion, Sugar Plum Scary is an excellent choice. Highly recommended! I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.

Cozy retelling

This retelling is as the description says: cozy. It is a delicious listening of the old story with some twists. Really nice.