The Grimm Variations is a strange and beautiful as you have so beautifully described it in your review. I adore the way you have emphasized its dark take on fairy tales without losing the moral depth to these stories. The section regarding the manipulative aspect of Cinderella was particularly interesting--it demonstrates how even innocence can be manipulated by ambition to produce something harmful. The watercolor impressionism which you have described is breath taking, the addition of that nostalgic fairy tale touch. It made me wish to feature in these haunting stories when reading your thoughts. You had it all so warm and understandable.