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Fairest

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Pub Date 13 Feb 2026 | Archive Date 20 Feb 2026


Description

A dark mafia retelling of Snow White. Perfect for fans of H D Carlton, Emily McIntire and Penelope Douglas.

RED AS BLOOD

I never wanted to be part of his life. I am the law, and he is everything I’ve vowed against.

But every time I see him, I can’t help but imagine what I want him to do to me.

He has a reputation. A dark possessive side.

I know he’d hurt me. But maybe that’s what I want…

WHITE AS SNOW

I never wanted to hurt her. She should’ve known to stay away from me.

But there’s something about her innocence that I desire.

She’s everything my fiancée is not.

But my fiancée is a jealous woman. She’s also powerful.

I know where my loyalties should lie, but the taste of purity is too tempting. Just one drop and I promise, that’ll be enough…

Tropes:

🍎Age gap

🍎Best friend’s brother

🍎Slowburn

🍎Mafia

🍎Forbidden romance

🍎Possessive MMC

Praise for Fairest:

'If you loved Snow White as a kid but want an upgraded, mature version then this is for you!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Seductive, dangerous, and drenched in forbidden desire… The chemistry is intense, the power dynamics deliciously unbalanced, and the moral conflict keeps the stakes high throughout’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A smart, atmospheric retelling that kept me hooked’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘An absolutely exquisite yearning/tension between Cillian and Niamh which made my heart so happy’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Enchanting… beautifully written, immersive story. A stunning read for anyone who loves fantasy with strong characters, intricate world-building, and a story that stays with you long after the last page’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'The magical and mystical elements of the Celtic myths were so masterfully woven into this story. I love that the story took place in a world like ours, brushed up against a world where magic and myth still rule’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK. I was pulled into the world and character relationships and enjoyed all of it’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'The relationship between the FMC and the MMC was intense and the connection they had over each other was amazing and well written’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

A dark mafia retelling of Snow White. Perfect for fans of H D Carlton, Emily McIntire and Penelope Douglas.

RED AS BLOOD

I never wanted to be part of his...


Available Editions

EDITION Ebook
ISBN 9780008759438
PRICE £2.99 (GBP)
PAGES 384

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Average rating from 94 members


Featured Reviews

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This is my first title by Mairi MacMillan and I had the pleasure to read the kindle on Netgalley. Thank you to the author for allowing me this opportunity.

Oh Goodness where to start?! Not even done with the prologue and I'm already so consumed by this book I could hardly put it down again. The Kindle followed me everywhere in my apartment 😂

The writing was top notch! Mairi brought me into a whole new world with her great way of world building and story telling. She made sure to create a world where I didn't have to imagine it.

This story is for you, If you enjoy a great fantasy story with a bit of romance and suspense. My heart pounded so fast while reading this story!

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Fairest by Mairi MacMillan is a beautifully dark and atmospheric retelling that breathes new life into a familiar fairy-tale world. MacMillan’s writing is lush and haunting, drawing you into a realm where beauty, power, and danger intertwine in unexpected ways. The protagonist’s journey is emotional and gripping, filled with sharp internal conflict and morally complex choices. Each chapter builds tension and intrigue, leading to twists that feel both shocking and perfectly earned. With its rich worldbuilding and captivating prose, Fairest is a mesmerizing read for fans of dark fantasy and reimagined classics.

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Moody, atmospheric, and emotionally driven, Fairest really shines in its dual POV, giving both leads depth and making the romance feel layered and earned. The slow-burn tension, morally grey characters, and fairytale edge kept me invested throughout.

Angsty romantasy with real emotional weight - a great pick if you love complicated romance and dual perspectives.

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This was a smart, atmospheric retelling that kept me hooked from the first chapter, weaving a familiar fairy tale into something darker and more grounded without losing its magic. The story follows two perspectives as secrets unfold around a dangerous court, a young woman caught in a web of power and survival, and a world where beauty, control, and truth are constantly being tested. I loved the dual POV because it added depth and tension, letting the reader understand motivations on both sides while still holding back just enough to stay intriguing. The Snow White inspiration is clear but never heavy handed, showing up in clever echoes and themes rather than obvious parallels, which made the story feel fresh instead of predictable. With sharp character work, a steady sense of unease, and a plot that keeps tightening as it goes, this was a satisfying and immersive read that fairy tale fans will appreciate.

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A retelling of Snow White? Yes, please! Dark, spicy, thrilling, just a couple of words that pop to my mind when I’ve told friends about this upcoming book. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Well done, Mairi!

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