Etienne de Brabant refuses to have anything to do with his daughter when her birth causes the death of his beloved wife. Instead, he leaves her to be raised by servants and brings a boy, Raoul, to grow up along side her. He says nothing about Raoul's origins and insists that he never leave his land. His daughter, called 'La Cendrillon,' and Raoul live happily as siblings, but their lives change when they turn sixteen and de Brabant's new wife and stepdaughters move into the household. When they receive an invitation to a royal ball, the stepmother's decisions will change the course of all of their lives. Finally, La Cendrillon begins to understand the meaning of family and the way to ensure a happy ending.
This was an intriguing retelling of Cinderella because it challenges many of the inherent conceptions of the story that show up in most versions. Aside from the expected resolution, parts of the plot were rather predictable. The characters are very well developed and likeable, however. Overall, I really enjoyed this book except that the ending seemed a little rushed and would have been better if it were a little longer. Despite that, I would definitely recommend this book - particularly to fantasy fans who enjoy retellings.
- If this book sounds interesting, consider these: The Two Princesses of Bamarre, Bound, or Tales of the Five Hundred Kingdoms
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