I've heard quite a few good things about Cinder and I'm glad I gave it a shot. I mean, cyborg Cinderella? I'M SO THERE! Even though Cinder is described as a retelling and I found myself trying to guess what's going to happen in advance, Marissa Meyer certainly has some tricks up her sleeve. She makes this story completely her own and the writing is just fabulous. I love the world she's created and Eastern too! I feel like I've been to those places and living in the East, well, I'm sure what we have here is a little bit like those in the book. :) 
 I love Cinder! She's snarky and brilliant and sort of like a teenager, being uncomfortable with her own self. She's loyal as well, and I just love how she's written. Prince Kai is such a delight too. I like that their romance takes a backseat in the novel, though their interactions were just so sweet to read, because obviously, Kai has other problems to handle, being Emperor to the Eastern Commonwealth. 
 Other minor characters I want to bring up: Peony, oh sweet sweet Peony. It was so good that Cinder had at least one person to count on. Cinder's stepmother = didn't like her that, still don't like her now. Luna Queen = evil and creepy and I hope she gets her comeuppance. 
 Oh, the ending! What a cliffhanger! I can't believe we have to wait so long for the sequel and more fairy tales too! OH, BE STILL MY HEART! Is it 2013 yet?