Even though I'm late in reading/reviewing this book... I still am proud to say that I've finished it and it's amazing! 
 Cinder tells us the story of Cinderella all over again.. with a big uncanny twist! It's a mixture of our beloved fairy tale, sci-fi, adventure, thrill and drama! If you ask me about the main difference... I would say that other than inserting the sci-fi plot, the characters make the biggest difference. 
 First of all, I love how Cinder is portrayed as a strong willed girl and not that meek girl who just lets everybody step on her. Her resolve is great and so is her love. She has been through so many prejudices because of her being a cyborg and yet, she remains strong. I know this is kind of harsh, but I admit, I like it that Cinder can't cry. I think it makes her look stronger and I feel like she can do anything without being so emotional. Her circumstance in life couldn't be helped. Her world brightens though, when she meets the prince. However, one by one, mysteries unfold in front of her... it was all so overwhelming for her. I could definitely understand her actions after this. 
 I felt bad for her, I felt sorry for her... but I also felt so excited! :) 
 The possibilities about her history are endless! I wanted to know right away, but the author made me wait, although hints were given here and there. It's great! 
 The prince here is also good. Kai is not such a push over. He thinks about his people, but he also thinks of the bad stuff. He's royalty, but he's not arrogant. He sees it as a responsibility. He's not even the reckless guy that some re-tellings portray him to be. He just wants to be a good leader while maintaining his beliefs. I liked him then. :) 
 These two start falling for one another, but this story is far from just a love story. Other characters come to play... Like the queen- a powerful one who can control minds etc. There's also the step mother and the step sister (of course). Then there's the fact that she is hiding what she is from the prince... 
 All of it comes down on her in a flourish. Yep, this one ended in a cliffhanger (thank God I waited for all of the books to come out), but the things that happen to the both of them in this book will surely make them stronger and wiser. I just hope that the prince would be enlightened about Cinder-- FAST! 
 All in all, this was a perfectly written page turner. Fairy tale lovers will also like this! :)