Published by Macmillan audio, St. Martin's Press Genres: Fairy Tale, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Retelling, Romance
Format: ARC, Audiobook, eBook
I love a good reimagining and could not wait to dive into Lady Tremaine, a reimagining of Cinderella. Rachel Hochhauser did not disappoint with this captivating book! Taking on one of the world’s most famous fairy tales is a bold thing to do, and it paid off! Every young girl who grew up watching Disney or reading Cinderella dreamed that one day their prince would come. But what happens when Prince Charming is well, not so charming, and the evil stepmother isn’t evil at all. No, she is just a mother trying to survive and raise her daughters.
Etheldreda has not had an easy life. She is twice widowed and left with the care of her two daughters, her stepdaughter, and a fierce and loyal peregrine falcon. Their home is crumbling around them, but Etheldreda throws herself into making a life for them. When a royal ball is announced, and only her stepdaughter is invited, Etheldreda throws her pride to the wind and does what she can to see that her daughters get an invitation as well.
This book is dark, delightful, and gripping. I enjoyed the take on a mother’s love, survival, and the unraveling of secrets. I enjoyed how some of the characters learned that not all that glitters is gold! I had both the audiobook and the book and enjoyed the experience of both. The narration of the audiobook was very well done.
The writing and vivid descriptions were fantastic, . Plus, there is some suspense at the end which got my heart rate elevated and put a smile on my face. I loved the message that women can save themselves. The old mama bear instinct when a mother will go head-to-head with any obstacle to protect her children.
Imaginative, creative, dark, and wonderfully written.
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
