Once Upon Stilettos

by: Shanna Swendson

Published by: Ballantine Books (April 2006 release)

Reviewed by Andrea Sisco

Shanna Swednson has scored! Once Upon Stilettos is the sequel to Enchanted, Inc., my favorite fantasy chick-lit novel of 2005.

Katie Chandler is an ordinary girl from a small Texas town who moves to the big city of New York. Everywhere she looks she sees gargoyles, women with fairy wings, gnomes and other creatures with pointed ears. Doesn't everyone?

As an immune (someone who isn't influenced by magic) Katie is hired by MSI, Inc. (Magic, Spells, and Illusions, Inc.) where she works as Merlin's assistant (yes, the Merlin of King Arthur days).

There is a spy within MSI, Inc. and it could mean that magic used for good could be used for evil unless the culprit is exposed. Katie has been directed to head up the spy investigation. She's perfect for the job because of her immunity to magic.

A problem results when Katie's magical immunity goes on hiatus and she's unable to find the evildoer. But her social life has improved. Men are literally falling at her feet. Is it her? Or do the scrumptious red shoes she was compelled to purchase have something to do with her new found irresistibility?

Once again Swendson gives her readers a hilarious and delightful romp through the world of magic with a dash of romance thrown in to titillate and make us laugh. Quirky Katie is the Bewitched, Charmed, Buffy and Sabrina of the fantasy chick-lit crowd. And she has been crowned their queen.

Armchair Interviews says: The fantasy world of Katie Chandler is a most enjoyable frolic into the Manhattan world of magic and make believe. Once Upon Stilettos is a stand-alone book but we recommend you read Enchanted, Inc. also. You'll be glad you did.